Programs

Introduction to the Indoor Cycling Program Q&A

I've never been to a Group Indoor Cycling Class before, what should I expect?

Every class is a different, depending who’s class you sign up for, but one of the great things about the cycling program is that it is adaptable to your fitness level. Remember that there's no competition. Listen to your body and adjust the resistance on your bike accordingly.  Most importantly it's a fun way to get a healthy heart and beat the winter blues!!

If you're a first timer let your instructor know. He or she can make sure your bike is properly adjusted  and give you a rundown on the cycles' computer program, with watts and specifics like heart rate training, adapted to your individual resting heart rate, or a formula that we use to find the % of your MHR.  This will help you burn more calories more efficiently, increase your strength and improve your overall fitness.

Do I have to be in great shape to participate in an Indoor Cycling class?
Anyone can benefit from the Cycling program. And because you can go at your own pace by controlling the gears or resistance on your Indoor Cycling bike, taking our classes is a great way to get fit.

What makes Cycling class different from other group exercise classes?
We have certified instructors at MacQueen’s Indoor Cycling, as well as invigorating music and visualization come together to make cycle class both fun and effective.  I’m sure you'll appreciate that there are no complicated moves to learn with the Indoor Cycling program. Regardless of how fit, flexible or coordinated you are, you'll get a great workout. Simply hop on your bike, set the resistance to the level that's right for you, and let your instructor guide you through an incredible ride.

How many calories will I burn in a class, and what is the approximate equivalent distance in road miles traveled?    

The number of calories you'll burn depends on a number of factors, including your weight and the intensity at which you exercise.  Studies have indicated that on average, participants burn about 500-800 calories in a 45-minute workout.  The "distance" traveled depends on cadence; however as an estimate, an average 45-minute class at a cadence of 90-110 rpm is equivalent to approximately 20km on the road.  *Lance Armstrong bikes at a steady 92RPM.

How is taking a Indoor Cycling class different than just riding a stationary bike?
Our classes make riding a stationary bike more fun by adding variety and visualization into your workout. A motivating group setting, energizing music and inspiring instructors make Cycling class an incredible experience. One you’ll keep coming back for more, more, MORE!!!

What type of gear do I need to wear to participate in an Indoor Cycling class?

Comfortable workout attire is all you need to get started. But the right gear can make a great class even better. Padded cycling shorts, breathable shirts, and if you have the SPD clipped shoes, wear them as well.  We provide a heart rate monitor, which will help you get the most from every workout.

If I have an injury from another sport is Indoor Cycling a good alternative?
Because there is little to no impact on your joints, while taking a Cycling class, it may be an excellent way to cross train, only your doctor can determine if the cycling program is a safe option for you.  It certainly can be a great way to cross train and AVIOD injury.

We offer different programs at the MacQueen's Indoor Cycling Studio as well a variety of times: daily am, noon, and afterwork classes as well as week-end to suit your needs. 

Depending on your fitness level, you can choose accordingly.  Our coaches are there to motivate you and keep you on the right track with fitness.  No need in being afraid to start any program with us... our Indoor Cycling Studio (20 bikes) is just the right place to start a wonderful exercise program!

ZONE 1-4 Heart Zone and Power Watt Training:

Zone 1  (50 - 60% of MHR)  BLUE ZONE

This is the Zone we begin to warm up in, it's also where we end up after our ride to cool down!.  It will still benefit and increase your fitness levels, as well as self-esteem and your blood chemistry.

Zone 2   (60 - 70% of MHR) GREEN ZONE

This is the zone where we spend most of our time in!  The Sustainable Power GREEN Zone!  Our heart begins to benefit.   Training in this zone will begin improve your hearts ability to pump blood and improve the muscle cells ability to utilize oxygen.  In this zone stored body fat is the primary source of energy utilized and so this zone is referred to as the weight management zone.  This is a good zone for long slow distance exercise as the body becomes more efficient at feeding the working muscles more efficiently especially with fat as the main fuel source.  

Zone 3 (70 - 80% of MHR) YELLOW ZONE

This zone is the most effective for overall cardiovascular fitness and is often called the "aerobic zone" or "target heart rate zone". This is the optimal zone to workout in to increase your cardio-respritory capacity or the bodies ability to transport oxygenated blood to the muscle cells and carbon dioxide away from the cells.   After a while you will be able to recover more quickly in between drills in the program.  Your body will burn less glucose and more stored fat as fuel thereby working more efficiently.  This zone is also effective for increasing overall muscle strength.  On the road, you spend your time here, not touring, but riding for fitness!

Zone 4   (85% - MHR Anaerobic Threshhold) ORANGE ZONE

This level is where you cross over from aerobic training to anaerobic training which is called the anaerobic threshold or AT.  This is the point where the body cannot effectively remove lactic Acid from the working muscles quickly enough.  Lactic Acid is a by product of glycogen consumption by the working muscles.  This zone is primarily for people who want to increase their performance levels. 

During this zone your muscles are tired, your breathing is heavy and you are fatigued.  The benefit of training in this zone is you can increase your bodies ability to tolerate and deal with lactic acid for a longer period of time as the enzymes in your muscles responsible for anaerobic metabolism are increased. 

 

Comments

[bicycle shorts]

Because there is little to no impact on your joints, while taking a Cycling class, it may be an excellent way to cross train, only your doctor can determine if the cycling program is a safe option for you.

[joanelectricscooter]

The indoor bicycle programs look like they are very intense. Can an average older biker participate in this type of program? I wonder if there are programs designed for older riders?

[Somanabolic muscle maximizer review]

I have a Schwinn IC Elite Bike and I'm bored with the same training program I've used for a few years. I'm wondering if anyone knows of any good dvd workouts that coincide with my bike.