Thursday, September 5, 2013

What are the special trainers used for spin classes and where can I buy them?

best spinning bike shoes on Spinning Shoes? Best Trainers for Indoor Cycling & Spin Training ...
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Regina Pha


I go to spin classes and i know that there are special trainers that stick to the pedal, to help me go faster, but I don't know what they're called or where to buy them-can anyone help me?


Answer
You are talking about clipless pedals.

Spin bikes generally use SPD pedals and cleats for your shoes. You can buy the SPD clips at any bike shop or online. They are shaped like a little arrow and are metal. They are the mountain bike shoe cleats. They are under $20.

You will likely have to buy bike shoes too. I strongly recommend mountain bike shoes because they have tread on them whereas road bike shoes have a slick (sometimes carbon) sole. I have taken a bad slip wearing my old road shoes in spin class and then jumping off the bike and walking the tiled hall to the restroom.

check out these links
Shoes:
http://www.performancebike.com/shop/sub_cat.cfm?subcategory_id=2120

kinda pricey but will last you for years.

Cleats:
http://www.performancebike.com/shop/profile.cfm?SKU=1844&subcategory_ID=10047

The cleats are shown on a black shoe insert. You typically will not use that part. Once you get your gear, take it to a bike shop and have someone put on your clips for you. ( or buy it from your local bike shop)
But if you do it yourself, start with your clip placement exactly in the middle. If knee pressure or pain results, they you can play with repositioning the cleats on the bottom of your shoe.

Just verify with your spin instructor that they use SPD compatible pedals. For a time we had 2 bikes with Look system pedals and that is very different ( and highly unlikely in spin class)

What is a good starter road bike for a first triatholon?

Q. Im training for my first triatholon and am looking for a good road bike for the riding portion. I have been training on a stationary bike at the gym and am needing to get some miles done on a road bike. Ive looked at some local, Houston Tx, bike shops and the prices are well over what I want to spend on a bike. Any suggestions on brands and dealers would be great.


Answer
Ebay! Start with bikes 4 years and older, aluminum, at least 10 speeds. Riding in a Tri is a lot like riding a century. Bike fit and comfort are more important than saving weight. If your position and pedal stroke are comfortable to you, chances are they're more efficient as well.

Then, invest in a set of Tri Aero Bars.. around 60 bucks, and practice with them. More than you think you should! If you wait till the day of your triathlon, you'll dump, wipe, face plant, or hurt someone else the first time you get the wobbles. Make sure you're riding intervals and sprints, not just long distance, low effort spins on an exercise bike.

Anything by one of the larger cycle manufacturers will suit you fine as long as you're comfortable with the bike, it has a big gear you can spin for an hour at high speed, and you rack up the seat time in prep for race day. Good Luck!

And to the Chris S below me.. I agree seem like they are a purely optional expediture, but I have found that they come in very handy when resting your arms and shoulders before or after a long swim. My Veloton group actually restricts their use in TT due to 2 or 3 guys riding aero bars in a paceline last year. A direct result of poor planning on the part of the organizers, but needless to say, that particular group ended up with a broken clavicle, a broken collarbone, three green-stick arm fractures, and yards of road rash!

Also, Have to ditto the shoes and pedals. Most of all though, be comfortable. Dont buy new gear the day before your Tri. If you havent trained in or on it, chances are it will just hurt you.




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