Dim lighting, loud music, lots of sweating – no, this is not a description of an awkward high school dance, but of spinning, a fitness class that is gaining popularity on campus due to the efficient workout it provides.
During a typical spinning class, an instructor leads participants in pedaling on stationary bikes for 45 minutes at different resistance levels, in an effort to raise their heart rate and build strength and endurance.
Although the concept of spinning started 15 years ago when a Californian built a stationary bike in his garage to train for a race, Princeton's Dillon Gym did not adopt a spinning program until five years ago, long after the trend had spread nationwide.
The class space is somewhat restricted — the spinning room started with 11 bikes — but the program has recently expanded with the purchase of new bikes last spring and the addition of instructors and class times this semester.
However, even with the added class times, most students arrive at the spinning room at least ten minutes in advance to secure a bike. Rhonda Johnson, the assistant coordinator of the recreational fitness and wellness programs at Dillon, said she has noticed a definite increase in popularity.
"In 2000, I thought it was just a fad, but it has become stable," Johnson said. "You get a phenomenal workout, you burn a ton of calories, and it's fun — I think that's why it's stuck around."
Maya Yamata '07, one of the ten certified spinning instructors this semester, said she is surprised by the amount of people who come to the 7:15 a.m. class she teaches, which includes students, staff, and professors.
"Sometimes, we have to turn people away," she said. "People are really pumped in the morning."
Stephanie Margolies '08 is one such spinning enthusiast. Margolies started taking spinning classes over the summer at her home gym and was excited to find out that Dillon offered the classes as well.
"I like having the trainers there to motivate you; you really get such a good workout that you can't get by yourself," Margolies said.
Dana Eitches '08, another instructor, agrees. "I think it's definitely become more popular," she said. "I think people like the fact that it's efficient — you go in, you get your workout, it's only 45 min; and when you're done, you're dripping with sweat."
She added, "You know how people are, they like seeing sweat."
Students often take up spinning for practical reasons. Namita Bisaria '08, who ran track at Princeton until she developed a stress fracture, said that spinning is a good rehab exercise. She said she does not like the spinning room much, though, because of its dark, dungeon-like atmosphere. But the less than ideal space does not seem to have dampened enthusiasm for spinning classes.
"So many people I know are doing it now," Margolies said. "I think it's slowly but surely replacing the elliptical as the workout of choice."
Dillon currently offers 16 spinning classes during the week and one on Saturday. For $60, students can obtain an unlimited pass for the semester.
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