Indoor cycling is popular in fitness centers and health clubs. The workout involves riding a specially designed stationary bicycle. Riders simulate various terrains by turning a resistance knob that affects the difficulty of the pedal stroke. Although the classes have a reputation for being challenging, the workout is appropriate for most fitness levels because the rider ultimately controls the intensity of the ride.
Burn Calories
Participating in regular calorie-burning activities helps with weight loss and management. The amount of calories you burn in any given activity depends on your efficiency, size, body composition and intensity level. The American Council on Exercise reports that a person participating in a standard 45-minute class can burn between 350 and 600 calories.
Improved Aerobic Fitness
Indoor cycling requires the heart and lungs to work hard in response to the pedaling action—helping to promote the circulation of oxygen through the blood and strengthening your heart. This improves your overall ability to sustain challenging workloads and enhances your ability to perform daily and athletic activities.
Leg Strength
Indoor cycling classes effectively tone and strengthen your muscles—particularly the quadriceps, hamstrings and gluteals. While some people believe the activity causes leg muscles to become overly bulky, the IDEA Health and Fitness Association explains large muscle development depends on your genetics, not indoor cycling class.
Soreness
If you are new to exercise and approach indoor cycling with a very aggressive intensity level, you may experience some soreness in the tops of the thighs and your calves. Some people find the slimly-designed stationary bikes uncomfortable and experience pelvic pain after their first few classes. Over time, your body adjusts to the workload and bike mechanics, and soreness should dissipate.
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