Indoor Cycle Instructor Podcast | ICI/PRO Premium Education: Recent Episodes
Indoor Cycle Instructor Podcast | ICI/PRO Premium Education
ICI/PRO is the Indoor Cycling Instructor Community's resource for free music, Instructor teaching tips, motivational cues, education, entertainment, class profiles, routines and music playlists.
Five million viewers of ABC's "Good Morning America" TV program were treated to a wonderful promotion for Indoor Cycling this past week. As I watched I just couldn't help myself and began humming REM's Shiny Happy People. That was exactly what I was seeing > hundreds of shiny, happy people enjoying riding inside. I can't think […]
A member at our club asked me this morning asked me for a recommendation on a last minute Christmas present for her husband. She wanted to buy him some Indoor Cycling shoes, who she described as having "very wide feet". I know all about the challenges of finding comfortable shoes (of any type) that fit my very wide and flat feet […]
By Team ICG® Master Trainer Chuck Cali “Indoor cycling instructors!! As you 'teach' your class this week ask yourself- am I using this time to effectively TRAIN these people or am I using every trick in the book to just be an 'entertaining distraction'?? And yes, there is a BIG difference..:)” I saw this statement […]
My first exposure to the Schwinn AC Performance Indoor Cycle was back in the Fall of 2009. Since then I've seen them make a number of improvements > specifically to the console display with the intent of simplifying the calibration, improving the accuracy/consistency of wattage displayed and reduce the number of additional sensor batteries. I […]
I'm a huge fan of Amazon Prime because it makes me feel super productive and efficient. When I realise I need something, rather then adding the item to a shopping list (I'll probably forget to bring to the store), I take 30 seconds to order it on Amazon. Then I hear my dog Maxx bark […]
Shannon Fable, Co-Founder and President of GroupEx PRO Group, has published this informative presentation directed at Instructors and studio owners/managers: How to Keep Crowds into February January is such a great time of year for Fitness Professionals, especially group fitness instructors. Studios are packed and there are tons of new faces! And, as a GFM, I”™m […]
Cameron Chinatti from Stages Indoor Cycling alerted me to this Indiegogo project: BreathAcoustics All-in-One Headset. She was excited by it and I can see why. I've spoken with the inventor Nirinjan Yee who's the CEO and Founder of BreathResearch and we will be recording an interview this coming Thursday morning - I'll try to have it posted by Friday […]
Computers and cars fall into the same scary category for me: I depend on them, with little knowledge of how they work and how to repair them if when something goes wrong. You may not know this- but I got very lucky (or chose wisely), as my husband John is quite a handy mechanic. Phew! […]
Yeah, sort of a play on words, but hopefully this article will help you use your recovery times more effectively. I”™m going to write a separate article on proper recovery and what is appropriate considering the constraints of indoor cycling. But for now, let”™s just assume we all agree that we need recovery and let”™s […]
Welcome to the The Weekly Ride by Cycling Fusion Welcome to our new era of The Weekly Ride, you get: Full Ride PDF Apple Music Playlist Spotify Playlist File to Download the Ride directly into My Fitness DJ (Yes, no Programming) The Ride will be available for purchase in the iClass Builder Store (No Programming) […]
I coached one of the last weeks of Cycling Fusion”™s winter training program with a focus on developing muscular strength. The indoor ride consisted of a 15-minute warm-up, 2 openers (short, high intensity efforts) and then 4 climbing strength intervals. The goal of the intervals was to sustain the maximum load (resistance) while maintaining a […]
I feel that "jumps" (the controlled/rhythmic/on-the-beat type - not the random "popcorn" or David Lee Roth varieties) have gotten a bad rap as of late. I love when they're a part of a class, enjoy teaching jumps and see them as beneficial for multiple reasons... here are five* for you to consider: #1 Jumps can provide […]
Question asked by a member of our Studio Owner's Facebook Group; "Where should I post listings to find quality Instructors for my new studio? Which is a great question... where will prospective Instructors know where to look for job listings in their area? Why here of course - check out our new website where Instructors […]
By Team ICG® Master Trainer Chuck Cali “Is there a way to find out what your class profile will be before the class?” I”™m never quite sure how to take this question, which I get periodically. Still, I screw up the courage to ask, “Why?” The answer usually begins with, “If I knew...” and involves […]
Can you Hang On to the work done in the previous interval? Workout Basics: 5-minute warmup 3 x 4-minute intervals with 30 seconds recovery after each 1-minute recovery after the third 4-minute interval 3 x 3-minute intervals with 30 seconds recovery after each 1-minute recovery after the third 3-minute interval 3 x 2-minute intervals with 30 seconds recovery after each 1-minute recovery after the third 2-minute interval 4,3,2 minute intervals with 30 […]
This is exciting! Sports Psychologist (and ICI/PRO Member) Dr. KC Wilder was planning to attend this year”™s ICI/PRO conference. She offered (and I accepted of course) to teach one of her signature rides on Saturday October 1st. Tour de You (Ride) Special guest Instructor Dr. K C Wilder will take you on her Swirling Circles […]
Sometimes, with the best intentions (and a lot of effort), new fitness businesses don't work out as planned. Which leads to sending out a sad email like this one: John, sadly I have to close down 2 of my studios and consolidate to one due to landlord doubling the rent. Is there anywhere I can […]
I get the "Where can I get certified as a "Spin®","Schwinn®" or simply an Indoor Cycling Instructor?" question a lot. While trying to be helpful, more often than not my response is "I'm sorry, but you are asking the wrong person." "The person you want to ask is the manager at the club where you would like to […]
Over the last few weeks, I”™ve noticed a number of riders in my classes that were setup incorrectly on their bikes. I found this odd only because these riders had been positioned correctly on their bikes a few weeks earlier. What happened? I talked to 3 of the riders. Two of them said that another […]
Like always, there is no pat answer. It often depends on the instructor”™s teaching style, the type of ride and the class”™s expectation. Teaching Style I tend to break down the style categories as Coach, Trainer and Instructor. The Coach is on the road with you, but is often not working at the same intensity […]
I actually got myself in a little trouble exposing Myth #2 You (the Instructor) can set yourself up correctly. It was at the end of an Instructor evaluation, where I was a pretend participant. The Dept Head asked us if we had any comments or suggestions for the Instructor being evaluated. Now I'm not normally comfortable critiquing others […]
ICI/PRO member & Cycle Quest Studio owner Joe Ducosin hosted Olympic Gold Medalist Dara Torres at his studio last week - and the results were a bunch of free local media that promoted his studio. Dara was in town to promote the new women's specific FitClips headphones she helped design for KOSS Headphones. They also […]
Last weekend Amy and I were in a Spinning class at a Life Time Fitness in Scottsdale. The instructor's playlist was a series of YouTube videos she played off her iPhone. The class was very cool... and all I could think about was how much my class would love this... Is this legal? I've been […]
This Podcast is was originally published on January 15, 2009, I have updated it with our new Podcast host information and I am representing it now. I hope you enjoy it, Joey Video options for your Indoor Cycling class get better every day. In this episode I interview Allen Jones, creator of the epicRIDES series […]
New music Friday is a favorite day of mine. I love waking up with my morning cup of coffee and Spotify (and iTunes) to see what new music I can find to use in my classes. Sometimes I walk away disappointed and other times I feel like I”™ve hit the jackpot. I can typically tell […]
This post from http://www.stage5cycling.com/news/they-were-in-shock and has been re-posted with permission. By Tom Scotto You don”™t want to continually warn people how hard your certification testing is because it always sounds like you”™re just trying to hype things up. That was never our intention. We just wanted to give folks a heads-up that this may not […]
Do Indoor Cycling Classes really need to be 45-60 minutes - to provide the health and fitness benefits expected by our participants? Asked another way: If your studio offered classes that were shorter (say 30 minutes), while still just as effective as 3/4 or a full hour, could an "express class" attract people who feel […]
Recording of Me teaching this profile on the Stages SC3 IC Bike. http://pro-contributors.s3.amazonaws.com/Simple_and_Progress_How_Far_Will_You_Go_May_18th.mp3 Right Click to download this class recording. Below, Premium Members can listen and download the music mix used in this class, view and download a printable Class Profile that can be used in class, read a detailed description of the Power […]
I had been to plenty of cycling classes before this one. I had sat through the militant instructors, rigid with instruction. I had pedaled through classes where the coach was crouched, hidden behind his music. But here I sit, perched on a bike in the center of the back row, vowing to myself that this […]
This is getting to be a bit of a trend, people writing about their experiences in a Spinning class. Here's another from ChicagoNow.com called Spin Classes are Cool (for men too) Like we need to told that 🙂 I've been spinning since I stopped going to my regular health club, riding the bike for […]
How long can you HANG ON? Workout Basics: 5-minute warmup 3 x 4-minute intervals with 30 seconds recovery after the 1st and 1 minute after the 2nd 1-minute recovery after the third 4-minute interval 3 x 3-minute intervals with 30 seconds recovery after the 1st and 1 minute after the 2nd 1-minute recovery after the third 3-minute interval 3 x 2-minute intervals with 30 seconds recovery […]
Update 12/11/16 - I thought of this post after an unnamed contributor responded "no, sorry" to my request for a new picture to include in an article. There were two things that got me really motivated to get a professional headshot last week. The first was talking with Darcy Knoblich and learning how she's benefited […]
I had forgotten how challenging it is to teach a completely naked Indoor Cycling class! I'm in Jamaica with Amy this week, teaching at Couples Tower Isle on a working fitness vacation. Jamaica is well know for sun, rum, Red Stripe beer, the clear blue ocean and a very carefree lifestyle. Jamaicans use the word Irie to describe […]
I've been a loyal Carbonite customer since 2008 and see having a system for regular, daily backups of your computer as a Best Practice. They've saved me from multiple Hard Drive failures where I would have lost everything. All my music, all my files and thousands of pictures remain safe and recovering every single […]
By Team ICG® Master Trainer Jim Karanas Interval: n., the amount of time between two specified instants or events. You teach indoor cycling, so you know intervals. If you asked another instructor for the workout he/she used in class that morning, odds are you”™d get a response something like, “The main climbing set was 4 […]
They made this DVD just for me! OK, not really. But it is exactly what I have asked for; a long climb without a bunch of distractions. I need to thank Allen Jones from Epic Planet for sending me a sample of this DVD - a small perk of this job 🙂 If you asked […]
Gary Hawkins from Ride Fit contacted me last week about a new virtual cycling training video he had produced. Except this video doesn't feature typical cyclists - it's designed for people who train indoors on an ElliptiGO. If you've never heard of an ElliptiGO you can join the club - it was completely news to […]
Different Methods Same Skewed Results Let”™s start with the good news. I”™m sorry, I was completely pulling your leg. I really don”™t have any good news. I know, that”™s terrible — you can throw pencils and small farm animals at me next time you see me. I was really looking for the good news in […]
So which fitness club or cycling studio is looking today to hire a passionate & talented Indoor Cycling Instructor? EVERY. CLUB. AND. EVERY. STUDIO. How can I say that with such conviction, without actually surveying every club/studio on the planet? That's easy 🙂 Every successful business owner/manager I know, is continuously looking to hire good […]
His, Hers & Ours - Epic Red Wing is an Endurance profile where you and your Tandem partner are leading a group of cyclists over the next 60 minutes. The two of you are committed to pulling your group at a fast, yet maintainable pace - with your primary objective being to demonstrate your fitness to […]
Welcome to the The Weekly Ride by Cycling Fusion No more hunting for new music or counting out cues to develop your ride profile. Here is your ready to ride profile for a fully choreographed ride, that can be displayed from your phone, or printed out onto cue cards for your class. This ride is […]
With all of these very talented Indoor Cycling Instructors available we thought; "why not add a monthly Podcast featuring one of our members?" Meet ICI/PRO Member Alice Heffner! In this episode Alice shares the steps she took to start and build a new class, at a new club, at a weird time, completly from scratch. If […]
FREE ICI/PRO PODCAST: What an exciting day, this is our third ride recording. ICI/PRO member Amy Smith, a Cycling Fusion Master Instructor and routine contributor to The Weekly Ride, delivers a ride. "This is a race week. On this course I have less hills so we have to keep them on target in the saddle […]
Outdoor cyclists can be very particular about their bike fit and setup. So much so that many won't come to your class because, after hundreds of hours on their own bikes, they don't feel comfortable on the Indoor Cycles in your studio. Then there's the issue of those who train with a Power Tap (or […]
Does you club offer a Indoor Cycling Movie Night? Mine does as a way to get people in for long rides minus the boredom 🙂 Working on that concept would this work? Have an "Indoor Cycling Endurance Learning Class" where you play instructional DVDs on different topics. I got the idea over at EnduranceFilms.com I […]
They say good things come to those who wait! I'm very excite to announce that Stages Indoor Cycling has agreed to co-sponsor the conference this year and they will provide a room full of their new FreeMotion Indoor Cycles with POWER. Update: July 2011 - I am now teaching on the FreeMotion s11.9 and have a […]
I started to share this over at pedal-on.com and quickly realized that this is another Best Practice for Indoor Cycling Instructors. Suggestion to anyone reading this who is planning to use Spotify in class. A cycling coach / friend of mine taught me that race day is never a good day to try something new. The […]
Well actually it was a non-decision 🙂 I received this notice today via email - Dear Carbonite Customer, Your Carbonite Online backup subscription for your computer JOHN-PC is scheduled to automatically renew in 7 days. When you signed up for Carbonite you selected automatic renewal billing which provides uninterrupted backup protection. You do not need […]
This Podcast is was last published on Feb 2, 2017, I have updated it with our new Podcast host information and I am representing it now. I hope you enjoy it, Joey Continuing this week's focus on "selling endurance" - please enjoy this Podcast from our archives featuring Spinning Master Instructor Janet Toussaint.Sometime I feel […]
It was a beautiful September day for pictures, next to a lake in Saint Paul, MN. I had great hair and Amy (the senior group fitness instructor in our family) swears she was only 17 when we married in 1988. This conveniently keeps her age under 40 🙂 Originally posted 2010-09-23 08:01:36.
"Hello... My name is Karen and I stepped out of the box last year. I am also the self proclaimed spokesperson for KEEPING IT FUNâ„¢ Indoor Cycling. I”™m committed to helping other indoor cycling instructors who aren't afraid to approach indoor cycling differently." Remember that article? I wrote it a little over a year ago. I wrote it […]
Study Controls One of the next most important aspect of executing your research is having a way to accurately and consistently conduct the prescribed drills and record their results. This is the proverbial “before and after”; also commonly referred to as “baseline” and “performance testing”. This is so important that we researcher types typically like […]
I think of myself as a music fan, I have an open mind and appreciate music from all genres. This past week, pop superstar, Justin Timberlake joined, CMA New Artists of the Year, Chris Stapleton on the CMA stage and a magical performance happened. http://pro-contributors.s3.amazonaws.com/JT_and_Chris_Stapleton_at_CMAs.mp4 Right click and follow directions below […]
Would you teach indoor cycling in a facility that required ? I live, work and play in and around Denver Colorado. The indoor cycling studio scene has not yet made its way into the Mile High City. We have some awesome stand alone studios like Breakaway, Epic Ryde, Beat Cycle and the Dailey Method, […]
This Podcast is was originally published on December 15, 2008, I have updated it with our new Podcast host information and I am representing it now. I hope you enjoy it, Joey Hi [firstname] It's -5 below zero (F) here in Minneapolis as I write this. After listening to Ryan Hogan, from the Australian Fitness […]
Was it just me, or did that last Instructor never make eye contact with you, either? Amy and I were both participating at a teach-back assessment a few months ago, for Life Time's new Evolution Signature Indoor Cycling format. There was a handful of Instructors trying out and we all assumed the role as a […]
As an athletic coach, nothing bothers me….OK, “ticks me off” more than when legitimate methods of training are misused. It blatantly demonstrates a lack of knowledge and professionalism. Unfortunately, this tendency is rampant in the fitness industry, which has thus spilled over into indoor cycling. Professor Izumi Tabata — You are the Man! Now before […]
Sometimes I need a cool video to play as a warm up song. This video is perfect! Beautiful scenery, classic rock song and a smooth flowing video that everyone can appreciate and "Get Lost in the Moment." The entire, full length, movie is available for download on iTunes. [wlm_private 'PRO-Platinum|PRO-Monthly|PRO-Gratis|PRO-Seasonal|Platinum-trial|Monthly-trial|PRO-Military|30-Days-of-PRO|90 Day PRO|Stages-Instructor|Schwinn-Instructor|Instructor-Bonus|28 Day Challenge'] […]
Bill Pryor from Spynergy Consulting visited the annual IHRSA Show last week to learn what”™s new for cycling studio owners and entrepreneurs. Here are some highlights and photos from his report. "......once I got over the sensory overload, I made a point of visiting all the bike manufacturers to ride the bikes and hear about […]
Indoor cycling has had a reputation of being a good cardiovascular workout. And that is absolutely true. However, when an aspect of any activity is touted vigorously, the reputation that is created can become definition. Even a recent indoor cycling certification workshop I attended spoke of the aerobic benefits while going as far as to […]
OK, so mid August may be a little bit early to start asking people to come back to your class. But I don't feel that there's any harm in giving some thought (and maybe some preparation) in how you plan to encourage past students to return to class this Fall. Here is an excellent article from […]
By Team ICG® Master Trainer Jim Karanas Video impacts Indoor Cycling more than any other form of Group Fitness. With the advent of Forward-Motion Video (FMV), the indoor cycling instructor can integrate the video into the ride profile for the day”™s class. It”™s an asset that the instructor can use to enhance the experience of […]
Today was my scheduled Teach Back and I passed! If you teach for Life Time Fitness you are required to demonstrate that you understand how to teach a proper Studio Cycle class. Our Teach Back today was to follow our "Speed" profile and we had only about 12 minutes to complete: A short warm-up & introduction to […]
Something about this movie trailer moved me to the point where I made a donation to support the production of this film. It wasn't much, only $25, but as I begin year #51 it really spoke to me and I wanted to show my support. Maybe it was this quote, right at the end, that […]
Schwinn is promoting an improved version of the Schwinn AC Performance Indoor Cycle, calling it the "Plus". The biggest changes are to the saddle and handlebar Fore & Aft adjustment mechanism. Earlier versions of the AC Performance limited both adjustments to three set position that were labeled "+" / "0" / "-", with "0" being Neutral and […]
What I've described as the "SoulCycle Effect" appears to have caused a nice jump in the starting rate for IC Instructors. At many new boutique studios, the $50 - $75 per class rate advertised is the starting base pay rate. Consistently fill the room and the added $'s per-head incentives you'll receive could push your […]
This Podcast is was originally published on February 22, 2009, I have updated it with our new Podcast host information and I am representing it now. I hope you enjoy it, Joey Keiser Master Trainer Suzette O'Byrne and I discuss the initial response to their new correspondence Indoor Cycling certification course. Keiser has recently introduced […]
Think about all of the planning you did before launching your new cycling studio? How much are you doing today to keep your studio in top form? We talk with Barbara Chancey and John Bogosian talk about the six signs of fitness studio sabotage. This podcast is a must listen for both studio owners and […]
As cycling instructors many of us have experienced the difference between wearing traditional sneakers versus wearing cycling shoes in an indoor cycling class. In fact, many instructors (and students for that matter!) claim that once they”™ve worn cycling shoes they”™ll never go back to sneakers. And what”™s the difference? The answer is in the sole […]
A defining feature of outdoor cycling is the uncertainty of the open road. On a new route, we never know exactly what will happen. The road makes each ride unique, especially since we move so fast and so far. That visual excitement has been missing from indoor cycling -- until now. The video/indoor cycling combination […]
ICI/PRO member Dr. Marc Schlosberg is one of those Early Adopters you've no doubt heard discussed in the media. This group is quick to experiment with and embrace new technology. Marc was one of the first Instructors to use Spotify in his classes and he joined me on the podcast to discuss this (at the time) […]
The Things You Wish You Knew in Your First Indoor Cycling Class We know cycling is a great workout, but very few are willing to brave down pours or gusting winds when the weather isn”™t cooperating. Pedaling to great music encouraged by a motivating coach seems rather appealing. While indoor cycling group fitness classes […]
Master Trainer Jim Karanas from Team ICG® joins me on this episode to discuss both Jim's and my concerns that those of you who are heading outdoors this summer, do so safely! Although it was hard for him to talk about, Jim's wife (and long time riding/training and racing partner) Angela was involved in a […]
- My original objective of the Power blog here in ICI/PRO was to build the case for power precept upon precept, slowly but surely. Good idea, except for folks who already find themselves teaching on power bikes and are anxious to get to the meat & potatoes. So, as the line in Monty Python”™s Holy […]
As promised, here's Krista Leopold's Indoor Cycling Class Profile; Beat Down! Training Type: LT Intervals Working HR Zones: 4 Total Class Length: 55 min Objective and Intensity After recently being inspired by a boxing match I watched at the nail salon of all places, I decided to try to bring my riders into the ring […]
Last month Amy and I had the privilege to work with producer Allen Jones on an upcoming EpicPlanet.tv Indoor Cycling DVD. This was Allen's first video to feature Tandem bikes. We were joined by our friends Tony and Jean for what was an awesome day of riding along the bluffs of the Mississippi river valley. Here's […]
As promised in this post, here's my interview with fitness equipment leasing expert Joe Schmitz from F.I.T. Leasing. During the interview Joe provides answers to many of the questions you might have if you're planning a new Indoor Cycling studio, or are considering an upgrade to any of the new Indoor Cycles with power; FreeMotion […]
Welcome to the The Weekly Ride by Cycling Fusion Welcome to our new era of The Weekly Ride, you get: Full Ride PDF Apple Music Playlist Spotify Playlist File to Download the Ride directly into My Fitness DJ (Yes, no Programming) The Ride will be available for purchase in the iClass Builder Store (No Programming) […]
Take out the lights, put on some make-up and setup the cameras. You are about to be the star of your next class. Since joining Cycling Fusion, I”™ve been thrust into the world of video and spend more time in front of a camera than I like. Between our digital classes, virtual rides, ads and […]
It's a fact of life for all of us teaching power based classes; inconsistency in the watts readings between cycles. Some brands seem to be better than others. Certain bikes seem to be always right, while others are never even close. Calibration is done more frequently by some clubs... or not at all - or […]
It has taken me a while, but now I understand why many Instructors and Studio/Club owners are resistant to adding Indoor Cycles with power... they don't want a class full of riders, with heads down, totally focused on the what the computer is showing. We all want our participants focused on us... Many of us […]
The Spinning RideBook is difficult to find at spinning.com. Here is the link: http://www.spinning.com/spinning-shop-spinner-bikes/spinner-accessories-7320.asp Originally posted 2009-04-27 05:15:07.
Breath Denver is the Indoor Cycling studio that hosted the Stage 5 Cycling Instructor certification that Jennifer and I participated in this past weekend. I'm fascinated by people who follow their passion, take a (big) risk and start an Indoor Cycling studio. Breathe Denver owner Sarah TV (Tobitha Vay) Russell is just such a person […]
It”™s time to start thinking about developing our power, but what do we do if we don”™t have a power meter? First, you will want to build on that good cardiovascular foundation that you now have underneath you from base building this winter. What”™s that? You mean you didn”™t do any base building during the […]
This came in the mail yesterday and all I could think was, "this has to be for my dad. It can't be for me." 🙁 No, I'm not going to apply... I guess it just one more predictable thing that comes with reaching the half-way-point. (I'm 50 at the end of the month and I've taken to […]
I received more responses to the frustration originally expressed by new Instructor Irene in this post; Hey Team > How Would You Answer This Question? What I find to be the single biggest challenge as a new instructor is music- music flow, and knowing what drills or activities to do to what music. I […]
Here's part 2 of my interview with ICI/PRO Member Bill Roach where we get into details about how you can create your own email newsletter. Here is the outline we worked off of for this interview. Download the full transcript of this intervew http://indoorcycleinstructor.com.s3.amazonaws.com/136-Part-2-Bill-Roach.mp3 Originally posted 2011-02-07 08:37:53.
I won't ride at all.... John was talking with a neighbor friend after returning from a challenging group ride and invited him to ride along the following week. His response was, "I used to lead the A ride. I won't do it now, because I can't sit up front anymore." Andrew* was recently diagnosed with […]
Let's talk a little bit about resistance today. While I do not want to get into the "how much should I add" debate, there certainly is a minimum amount of resistance that every rider should have on their bike. The true importance of resistance comes about due to the existance of a flywheel on an […]
Power Education Specialist Benjamin Sharp talks about how to properly perform Hill Intervals using Stages Power. Hill Intervals are four 5-minute efforts done on a hill with a brief rest period between each effort. The goal is to find consistent power during each effort and across all four efforts. Originally posted 2016-05-03 01:06:20.
As the fonder of multiple fitness programs for Moms; Stroller Strides®, Body Back® and Fit4Baby® - Lisa Druxman knows all about creating a Tribe of people passionate about a fitness business. Lisa Druxman created Stroller Strides in 2001 after the birth of her baby. With over 1,300 locations nationwide, it offers moms an opportunity to […]
[plulz_social_like width="350" send="false" font="arial" action="like" layout="standard" faces="false" ] Not sure how you”™d construct an experiment on this one If you”™ll recall from Blog post #5, we are doing our best to stick to “The Scientific Method” as we conduct our research. To that end, we have just accomplished three of the initial steps: The Process […]
RateYourBurn.com is a review site for fitness instructors who teach in select US cities. RateYourBurn founder Gillian Casten joins me to discuss her vision for this popular Instructor review site + shares a few of her observations and potential strategies you can use to improve as an Instructor. In a previous interview, Studio owner Jessica […]
A compendium (plural: compendia) is a concise, yet comprehensive compilation of a body of knowledge. A compendium may summarize a larger work. Gene Nacey with Cycling Fusion knows Training with Power - indoors and out. The Indoor Cycling Compendium for Power Training is a new ebook resource that Instructors can purchase to be well informed and comfortable communicating the […]
I sleep better knowing that for 17 cents a night, everything I have saved on my computer is fully backed up. All my Indoor Cycling class music, profiles, playlists, files, pictures...everything. When I see the backup status report below, I know that my three year old Dell laptop can fail tomorrow and I will lose […]
Welcome to the The Weekly Ride by Cycling Fusion: No more hunting for new music or counting out cues. Here is your ready to ride document, that can be displayed from your phone, or printed out onto cue cards. This ride is timed out, down to the second, to make your life as easy […]
Running a successful fitness studio takes a lot of passion, experience and hard work. The husband and wife team of Xavier and Nadia McClinton who run Body By X Skill Development & Training Center in Marin County California sound like they have all three covered... and more! Together they have developed a unique fitness offering that […]
I'm guessing that by now you've had members/friends/family/co-workers who recognize your passion for cycling and have asked you; "so what do you think/feel about Lance Armstrong?" They obviously don't have to explain their question any further... you already know exactly what they're talking about. My response has been; "it's complicated... do you have a few hours to discuss it?" […]
- It worked for Subway so now Taco Bell has launched their "Drive-Thru Diet" complete with a spokesperson who supposedly lost 54 pounds eating at Taco Bell. What began with Subway Jared will be continued by Drive-Thru Christine. As you know, the Drive-Thru Diet® menu is not a weight-loss program. It's about making different choices. […]
By Team ICG® Master Trainer Jim Karanas - The Watt. Ten Newton Meters. Ten times the force necessary to raise 1 kg 1 meter vertical in 1 second. Clean. Absolute. The cyclist”™s preferred training statistic. Whether it”™s power-to-heart rate ratio, sustainable watts per unit time, or maximum watt output, there”™s no better measurement of improved […]
I see a big part of growth (both personal and professional) is being willing to take risks in your life. When I first started the Indoor Cycle Instructor Podcast there were probably a hundred reasons why it was a bad idea... but I chose to ignore them. A little over 60% of ICI/PRO members are women. […]
Comments: Hi John- I have scoured the entire ICI website and can't find anything to help me with the following: 1. It doesn't look like Spotify is syncing in some way with my droid2 phone. I have the app open on my phone before I open the software on my iMac. I updated a playlist […]
Would you be intimidated if you had to fill in for Master Instructor Tom Scotto? I know I would. Meet Spinning Instructor and ICI/PRO member Kay Ruane. Kay fills in for Tom on a regular basis at the Wellbridge club where they both teach. Those of us with a bunch of experience, who were given […]
If you have been following us for any length of time, you've heard me talk about the very inexpensive vacations available to fitness Instructors who are willing to teach a few classes in exchange for a week long stay a beautiful resort. Amy and I have attributed much of the success our 23+ years of marital bliss success to our annual […]
What do your students think about your class? Do you really know what they are thinking after they leave for home? I found this post from Julie Erdmann at her Tri-ing to be Athletic blog. Julie's posts are a series of funny drawings that tell her story of her very first Spinning class. http://tri-ingtobeathletic.blogspot.com/2011/01/we-interrupt-current-training-flashback.html She […]
My friends over at Cycling Fusion are starting a new Weekly Ride Service. Subscribers will receive: A New Ride Every Week (on Monday) Complete Apple Music Playlist Complete Spotify Playlist Master Instructor commentary on the ride and the delivery 8 Hrs of Cycling Fusion CE per year (CE does not come every month) Never have […]
While most of us are focused on adult fitness, Sally Edwards and her Heart Zones company are doing some pretty amazing stuff with middle and high school aged children - using display training technology to motivate kids and get them active 🙂 I love seeing active kids who are enjoying fun activities... they're […]
Today www.indoorcycleinstructor.com is TWO YEARS OLD! What started as a bit of a whim has grown into something kind of special, don't you think? If you would like to go back the my very first post, and then work your way through all 473 posts published to date, start here: https://www.indoorcycleinstructor.com/icipro-instructor-training/video-tutorials/introduction-to-training-rates/ Originally posted 2010-08-02 10:16:11.
What caused the SoulCycle phenomenon? Why are their riders so passionate, loyal and willing to spend $34 dollars a class, when clubs and studios had been offering Indoor Cycling classes for 10 or more years - long before SoulCycle's launch in 2007? The research done (and reported here) by future studio owner Callie Bowling finds […]
Question from an ICI/PRO member: Hey john, I had a rider wearing a Timex HRM in class yesterday and it would not pick up her heart rate on the Keiser console of any of the bikes? It does work on other equipment in the facility (treadmills etc.) Is there a reason for this? and what […]
Cyclist Darin Letzring contacted me about the Indoor Cycling videos he has made in Yellowstone National Park. They look like they could provide an awesome backdrop for a class. Yellowstone Time Trials These videos showcase the flat and fast areas of Yellowstone National Park. Most of the video is spent right next to one of the […]
I love Spotify Premium. I play my class music in every class using my iPhone and a Bluetooth receiver. But there's something wrong with everything and what I feel is wrong with Spotify is: It isn't available everywhere on the planet Playlists don't show an accurate total length, over one hour. No crossfade option using your portable device - […]
Adapted from: https://www.active.com/cycling/articles/the-best-bike-storage-solutions?cmp=18N-PB2000-S20-T9-cycling-AR6&eps=title_1399933 As our outdoor season, at least road bike season — there is still plenty of Mtn Biking to be had, comes to an end we are all faced with the question of what to do with our gear. Unlike running or swimming where all your gear can be stored in a backpack […]
Monthly movie night at the Maryland Athletic Club (MAC) started last year. It was held on Friday night at 6 PM in our Spinning studio. Our Spinning room has a mounted LCD projector and a section for the front wall was painted with a special paint that would act as a movie screen. Various instructors […]
By ICG Marketing Director Gary Warren The culture of learning is radically changing. Formal education just can’t measure up anymore. Our new Team ICG Education Platform on the new ICG® website strives to make education “effortless” for anyone who wants to become part of Team ICG. You now have greater flexibility to search, navigate and read […]
Some may say I”™m all work and no fun. Oh, come on! What can be more fun than final exams? Although this time of year is loaded with holiday parties and a time to take a well-deserved break from training structure, it is also a great time to determine our conditioning before we begin the […]
by Team ICG® Master Trainer Chuck Cali As I prepared to support ICG at IHRSA 2013, I considered the ICG tenet that learning is about removing resistance. I had just gotten back from a bit of Vegas shopping. A nice saleslady asked me what I was doing in Vegas and told me about the time […]
Just last Saturday I taught my regularly scheduled 7:15 am class and my faithful regular 20+ were there. We were all disappointed that it was, again, cold and rainy/snowy on April 30 and that we could not be training outside, but were thankful for our gym membership. I yelled out my good morning greetings, popped […]
Because I work in different fitness environments, I see different approaches to health and fitness. In one gym, the equipment and the personal trainers focus almost entirely on strength training. Cardio is secondary, and done while watching TV — with that level of intensity, and that level of discipline. Stretching is often skipped. In gyms […]
Back to business this morning at the "Spa" (Minnetonka LifeTime Athletic Club & Spa) after the summer break. Everyone calls it the Spa because it's full name is just too much of a mouthful, especially in the early AM. It's amazing how consistent (or maybe habitual is a better word) people tend to be. I zipped into […]
Jennifer interviews me about my experiences at the IDEA Fitness Conference. Listen to the Podcast below or subscribe for free using or http://indoorcycleinstructor.com.s3.amazonaws.com/114_IDEA_Recap.mp3 Originally posted 2010-08-17 05:49:42.
How Long Can You Stay at the Summit? Below you'll find Week 2 of December's @ or Above Threshold Keep it Simple and Progress indoor cycling profile. http://pro-contributors.s3.amazonaws.com/Simple_and_Progress_Dec_3_CACDTC.mp3 Workout Basics: 7 minute warmup 1 minute recovery 4 minute interval increasing wattage or intensity each minute 5 minutes holding the 4th minute's wattage 1 […]
Jeff Wimmer from StudioCycles.com sent me these pictures of refurbished Star Trac Spinner NXTs I always enjoy talking to Jeff because he takes enormous pride in the quality in his Indoor Cycling maintenance business and the refurbished Spinner NXTs they build are a great example. He was explaining to me that these cycles are completely […]
Welcome to the The Weekly Ride by Cycling Fusion Welcome to our new era of The Weekly Ride, you get: Full Ride PDF Apple Music Playlist Spotify Playlist File to Download the Ride directly into My Fitness DJ (Yes, no Programming) The Ride will be available for purchase in the iClass Builder Store (No Programming) […]
Prospective Indoor Cycling Studio owners have hundreds of both challenging and easy decisions to make, long before they're ready to launch. Considering that your new studio will be a real business and the purpose of your business is to make money, the registration system you choose* to collect your money is pretty darn important... in fact it's […]
RACE DAY was another winner of our Ultimate Instructor Class Profile contest from Instructor Mark Peterson! For the love of the Road Race! The inspiration for this ride was the recent Pro Cycling Challenge in Colorado but the ride is generic in the sense that you could do this ride as a stage of any […]
Note: Gino's articles are supposed to be for ICI/PRO members only. He feels very strongly about this subject and asked that I make it available for everyone. - John As an Indoor Cycling / Spinning® instructor, you know how important good air flow is. Don”™t you? What??? You LIKE your students to sweat buckets!?! It […]
Spinning® Instructor Krista Leopold is back with another of her awesome class profiles! “There are two types of people: The ones who give you 50 reasons it can”™t be done … and the ones who just do it.” — Hoda Kotb Two Types of People Tabatas I created this ride to help riders see themselves as […]
This may be of value to you and those training endurance athletes in your class. Triathlon coaching legend Joe Friel, author of The Triathlete's Training Bible, gives you essential tools to have Your Best Season Ever. Topics in this presentation include- Goal Setting, Season Planning, Periodization, Self-Analysis, Workout Optimization and much more. Don't miss this […]
There was an interesting question asked at one of the Facebook groups; If you were to tell a New Instructor to master one thing as an Indoor cycling instructor . What would it be ? There were a plenty of great responses that included; learn musicality, cuing, be prepared, be yourself, project confidence/control your class […]
This is for real and it doesn't cost a dime. As a followup to my original article; save money on your smart phone with savelovegive.com, I received a call from Anthony, a very nice representative at Verizon Wireless, in response to the email request sent on my behalf from savelovegive.com. Anthony told me that […]
The brand that we all know now as Spinning grew out of a partnership between endurance athlete Johnny G and cyclist / CPA John Baudhuin in the early 90's. Together they formed Mad Dogg Athletics and the rest is history! John's bio from maddogg.com John R. Baudhuin is the founder, President and Chief Executive Officer of […]
Sometimes audio just isn't enough! Staying on the cutting edge of Indoor Cycling 2.0 is very exciting... and very demanding! The ICI/PRO Team is continually searching for new and innovative ways to educate our ICI/PRO members about the latest developments in fitness and Indoor Cycling. The introduction of Power to many of our classes brings with […]
Howdy Fit Folk! John Macgowan has so graciously invited me to contribute to the vast wealth of knowledge that is the ICI/PRO community-- woohoo!! Lucky me. 🙂 To those of you that I had the great pleasure of meeting at the 2011 ICI/PRO conference, hello again! To those of you that I have yet to […]
By ICG® Master Trainer Jim Karanas Last week”™s post covered variations in intervals and ladders. This week”™s covers variations in pyramids and steady-state workouts. PYRAMIDS A pyramid is a training technique that is essentially two ladders back to back, one ascending, one descending. The pyramid begins as an ascending ladder, but the top of the […]
ICG Master Trainer Jim Karanas presents our latest Audio PROfile. Race-Day rides have been part of indoor cycling since it began. However, few instructors use the profile effectively. The Criterium is the most fun and simplest race to simulate in an indoor environment. Also, you don’t have to have raced a crit to cue this […]
Can an argument be made for deemphasizing "Outdoor Cycling" in your Indoor Cycling class? Or asked differently; would it ever make sense to remove many (if not all) of the references, imagery and cuing related to riding outdoors? Life Time Fitness thinks we should and for some class times and populations, I agree with them. Evolution Cycle […]
Welcome to the The Weekly Ride by Cycling Fusion Welcome to our new era of The Weekly Ride, you get: Full Ride PDF Apple Music Playlist Spotify Playlist File to Download the Ride directly into My Fitness DJ (Yes, no Programming) The Ride will be available for purchase in the iClass Builder Store (No Programming) […]
The cadence or speed at which we pedal has a large impact on the type of workout we will receive. Maybe larger than we think. Often times, the only thing that separates one workout from another is leg speed. This 4 part series will explore different ways cadence affects the type of workout and our […]
"So Joel, how do you know who to listen to and who to shut out?" “I try to only listen to those whom I”™m confident are on my crew…” My question came during a conversation I was having during coffee with Joel Johnson, the pastor of my church. Joel had recently officiated the wedding between Kim Kardashian […]
ICI/PRO member John Appleby purchased a new VeloVie Vitesse 400 through our PRO/Purchase program. John emailed me today... John: Here is the photo of the bike. I like it more every day. I rode the 14 percent grade section of Beaver Creek (11 percent average over 2 plus miles) last week. This is the same road the […]
This Podcast is was originally published on March 15, 2009, I have updated it with our new Podcast host information and I am representing it now. I hope you enjoy it, Joey Graeme Street, the owner of Cyclo-Club (an online bicycle training service) offers you; Three steps to monetizing your passion for Indoor Cycling and […]
Below you'll find Week 3 of October's @ or Above Threshold Keep it Simple and Progress indoor cycling profile. Workout Basics: 4 minute warmup 15 minute benchmark ride to find "Maximum Sustainable Wattage" 2 minute recovery 6 x 1 minute interval w/30 sec recovery after each 2 minute recovery 12 minte interval at higher […]
By Team ICG® Master Trainer Jim Karanas Every day, countless products, services, and people provide us with positive or negative experiences. Not long ago, one of my students confronted me to let me know that she was annoyed and frustrated with a substitute instructor I had used for a recent class. Now, substitute cycling instructors […]
K.I.S.S. [firstname] do you struggle with keeping your participants focused on the task at hand? Are you becoming more and more frustrated because it seems impossible to get your riders to understand and comply with your instructions? Maybe you simply have had enough of listening to the chit chatter and would like to learn how […]
When should you go hard... and when should you take it easy? It's a great question. Often our response depends on very subjective feelings = we may think we know, but we really aren't completely sure. As Jim Karanas pointed out in his Intervals post this week, we are often too focused on the Work […]
It's true. People lie to you. Now I'm not talking about lying to you in a malicious/manipulative way, I have this awesome bridge in Brooklyn I can sell you really cheap - or - she's a real peach, only driven to church and back by the gentlest 80 year old grandmother you've ever met. What I'm talking about […]
In Podcast #5, I talk about a service where you can create your own Indoor Cycling Class Promotion Card that includes your picture and printing on the back. Here are the front/back proofs I made online in about 15 minutes. Very simple & effective. Click the pictures to create your own. Originally posted 2008-09-04 07:32:38.
Following up on the topic of winging it... reposted from April 9 2013 - John. What if you could get inside the minds of your students? It's common to hear compliments from your regulars about what you are doing well, but what about the students who come once and decide never to return? Imagine that you are […]
Every study I'm familiar with says that exercise is good for improving your mental health > but wait. Now they're saying it's possible to have too much of a good thing. Too Much Exercise May Lead to Diminished Mental Health Brittany Keithley October 24th, 2012 Although fitness keeps your body healthy by regulating weight and building muscle strength, […]
By ICG® Master Trainer Vanessa Wilkins Cycling instructors are a special breed, and all a little different. There are those who coach, those who teach choreography, those who talk heart rate and RPM, and those who teach meditation on the bike. I always strive to take a little piece from each style of instruction, to […]
You”™re passionate about fitness, you love indoor cycling and you may even be an outstanding instructor yourself. You recognize the amazing energy in a great class, and you”™ve also seen a lot of poor or mediocre classes that frustrate you. Maybe you”™ve wondered if a dedicated studio can make money? Should you start […]
PRO member Kay asked a very good question about ANT+ ... I'm also wondering about Heart Rate. If the bikes are ANT+, will they only pick up ANT+ Heart Rate Monitors? I noticed that the new Schwinn did not pick up my Polar HRM Thank you for your comments! Kay The short answer is; […]
By ICG® Master Trainer Jim Karanas Many things contribute to a great Indoor Cycling class, but none as much as cueing. Cueing a class is a skill, even an art, that develops over decades. Like public speaking, it”™s about more than the words and involves multiple factors. Cues add depth and color to a class […]
I prefer to limit the mathematical computations many Instructors typically ask of their classes. For example you'd never hear me say; "now I want everyone at 85% of their FTP" or... "this next interval is 30 seconds in Zone 5B which is 103 to 106% of your LT/AT heart rate followed by 2 minutes in […]
What would happen if someone were to get hurt in your class tomorrow? It could be something as simple as a student slipping on a sweat soaked floor and twisting their knee, as they were climbing off at the end of class. One moment everything is fine. It was a great class, the cool down music […]
Ben Greenfield is our newest ICI/PRO Team Contributor. Through his new RockStar Triathlete Academy, Ben has promised to help me with my training for the three Multi-Sport events I have committed to this summer. Besides all of his education and experience as a competitive endurance athlete Ben is an Indoor Cycling Instructor just like us. […]
ICI/PRO Member and Personal Trainer Doug Rusho joins Jennifer and me to discuss “Analyzing Indoor Cycling Techniques from a Personal Trainer”™s Perspective” As Doug describes it "There is no wrong in fitness, just risk and reward.” This is part one. ICI/PRO Members will find part two, ICI/PRO Podcast #99, in their Super Secret iTunes feed. Listen […]
CB Cyclebarn was recently voted the top Indoor Cycling studio in Orange County, CA. The "Barn" as it's affectionately known, is run by first time business owner / Instructor Karen Casler. Karen shares with us a number of the secrets of her success in the interview below: Her total focus on customer service. Using technology […]
Welcome to the The Weekly Ride by Cycling Fusion No more hunting for new music or counting out cues to develop your ride profile. Here is your ready to ride profile for a fully choreographed ride, that can be displayed from your phone, or printed out onto cue cards for your class. This ride is […]
UPDATE 6/7 5:15 and Amy and I are on the bus to Duluth, MN for the start of the MS 150. The start tomorrow AM is looking to be 42°F 🙁 Pedal-on.com is back! UPDATE 6/6 4:00 Thanks for your patience [wlm_firstname] We are getting closer to solving the multitude of problems we've been hit […]
This Podcast is was last published on Feb 23, 2010, I have updated it with our new Podcast host information and I am representing it now. I hope you enjoy it, Joey As promised last week, here's my interview with Bill Pryor about his experiences starting his own Spinning Indoor Cycling Studio. 2014 UPDATE: This […]
What are the component parts necessary to create an effective Indoor Cycling Class Profile? Tom Scotto joins me to discuss what he's calling The Anatomy of a Profile in the latest episode our ICI/PRO member's only PRO/Podcasts. Download the transcript of this podcast. You can download Tom's notes from a Cycling Fusion Workshop here. You can listen below […]
After attending ICI/PRO Conference 2010, Kathy Ehrlich-Scheffer and husband Matt were motivated to open their own studio. In her words, “to bring the best the industry has to offer to our riders.” And to her credit, she has done just that. Kathy and Matt opened Cycledelic, their vision of an indoor cycling studio on the […]
To demonstrate the point that inside every "couch potato" is a Triathlete. I found this interview video of Sally Edwards very entertaining and motivating. I have forwarded it to my Indoor Cycling Class participants. Click the link or the picture to watch it 🙂 Originally posted 2010-05-10 07:14:25.
Our latest Audio PROfile comes from Team ICG® Master Trainer Jim Karanas! PROFILE DESCRIPTION Timing is one of the most basic essentials of training. I like to think of Timing as “how you interact with what you perceive.” The road is the road. At times, it will come at you in ways that are unpredictable. […]
FreeMotion introduced a new belt drive option for their S11 series indoor cycles at IHRSA this year. Bill Pryor and I discussed it on Podcast # 204. Not being there to ride it, I figured that a belt is just a belt, right? Well no, in this case it isn't. Instead of using a high […]
I now have access to both Schwinn A.C. Performance Indoor Cycles and FreeMotion S11.9 Indoor Cycles in a super secret location* I'm planning a comprehensive review of both cycles over the next couple of months. Both the Schwinn AC and FreeMotion have the latest Power Consoles from each manufacture. I've already had the the chance to teach […]
I can't let this day past without remembering Amy's (the Senior Group Fitness Instructor here at ICI/PRO) birthday. I'm forbidden to mention her age, so please don't ask. I will give you some clues to the year she was born; Cuban Misslle Crisis, Jamaica Gains Independence From Great Britain, the Beatles "Love Me Do" came […]
Should we adopt a standard method of describing Heart Rate Training Zones? My argument is that until we (I'm talking about everyone in the fitness Industry) all speak with consistent language, manufactures will continue to put stickers like this on fitness equipment. The Majority of people in your club will see this chart on an […]
During a class I attending yesterday, the Instructor had everyone doing one-legged pedaling drills... one legged as in pedaling with one foot un-clipped and held out to the side or rested on the frame. That's wrong/contraindicated... isn't it? My initial reaction was to do what I normally do in this situation, I would just ignore his […]
I'm not embarrassed to say that I like country music. Country is a genre that many indoor cycling instructor avoid, but I embrace it. I get more complements about playing country music than any other genre. Country music IS popular and has a HUGE following. I live in Denver and a few weeks ago U2 […]
This video gives me goosebumps every time I watch it! Premium Members can download this Video for free by following the links below: [wlm_private 'PRO-Platinum|PRO-Monthly|PRO-Gratis|PRO-Seasonal|Platinum-trial|Monthly-trial|PRO-Military|30-Days-of-PRO|90 Day PRO|Stages-Instructor|Schwinn-Instructor|Instructor-Bonus|28 Day Challenge'] Right click to download this Video http://pro-contributors.s3.amazonaws.com/Dennis/Katy_Perry_Rise_NBC_Olympics_video.mp4 To download the above media on a Mac: Right Click on the blue underlined link Select "Download […]
Tom Scotto provides this Audio PROfile for our ICI/PRO Members. RPMx is designed to help riders adapt to higher legs speeds and promote a higher average cadence. The intensities will range depending on how developed a rider”™s pedal technique is and how relaxed they remain throughout the drills. Riders with good pedal technique, who remain […]
Did you know that all of the Indoor Cycles that use magnetic resistance (FreeMotion S11.9, Keiser M3i and Schwinn AC) have a built in feature that will help your riders get stronger, create more power and burn more calories if you recognise and cue to it properly? The feature I'm talking about doesn't have a label […]
Hate isn't the proper word... detest is a better way to describe my feelings toward my first Monday 5:45 am class after the Daylight Savings switch. Nothing more, just wanted to express that. Originally posted 2012-03-12 04:26:49.
This Podcast is was originally published on February 8, 2009, I have updated it with our new Podcast host information and I am representing it now. I hope you enjoy it, Joey Why did you become an Indoor Cycling Instructor? Why do you continue to teach? An interview with the senior Group Fitness Instructor in […]
Myth: Rider Setup / Bike Fit should be done before class. Common sense says that the best time to help someone with their bike setup would be before class. After all, this new student has just walked in and they have 45 - 60 minutes in the saddle ahead of them. So pre-class would be the […]
This week features the 2018 Holiday ride from Joey. The ride is primarily focused towards strength, but there is a fair mix of cadence work. Good luck and have fun. Joey Get all of the ride details HERE. Get all of the ride details HERE. Joey's "2018 Holiday Ride" Playlist 1: "Wizards in Winter […]
The overall concern of any fitness professional should be safety. We must always make every effort to provide a safe environment for those taking our classes. Health clubs and fitness studios are responsible for providing a safe environment and equipment for their members and staff. As instructors, our responsibility is to ensure that every aspect […]
By Team ICG® Master Trainer Jim Karanas Everyone agrees that indoor cycling classes using heart rate are more effective and even more fun to teach. This post is not about which HR training principles to use or the best way to determine training zones. You or the facility at which you teach can decide those […]
Amy and I are in Santa Monica, CA this week for the MINDBODY Bold convention. I knew I would have a bunch of downtime and did a search for classes near our hotel. Imagine my delight at discovering a SoulCycle just a few blocks away 🙂 We attended a sold out class there Sunday morning […]
This question from a prospective ICI/PRO member got me thinking today, while out on my early AM training ride... I'm interested in signing up for your programs, but I have a few questions about the information that is received. When you receive the classes, are there instructions included with how to teach each song; […]
By ICG® Master Trainer Jim Karanas Building a class profile can be one of the most enjoyable aspects of teaching Indoor Cycling. Instructors sometimes find it stressful because they feel they”™re “out of ideas.” There are many approaches to class design. A few possibilities are: music as the road; duplicating an actual ride profile with […]
Welcome to the The Weekly Ride by Cycling Fusion: No more hunting for new music or counting out cues. Here is your ready to ride document, that can be displayed from your phone, or printed out onto cue cards. This ride is timed out, down to the second, to make your life as easy […]
We're kicking off our Fall Spotify online training calls this afternoon @ 5:00 Central time. More of these training sessions to come - join the notification list here. I'll be covering: Spotify basic setup on your desk top Phone settings - iPhone or Android Importing your iTunes library Building playlists and playlist folders Transfering & offline […]
We know it is safe to keep both feet attached to the pedals and simply focus on one leg at a time, but is it safe, and should we unclip one foot to perform pedal stroke drills in our indoor cycling classes? To stay on point I’m not going to discuss if and why 1-legged […]
Myth: My students would prefer that I not suggest changes to their setup / bike fit. Alternates of this Myth are: My students would be offended or embarrassed if I even touch their setup. Other Instructors may be offended if I make suggestions to their student's setup. People are creatures of habit and routine. We all derive comfort […]
I love hard working entrepreneurs! ICI/PRO team member Barbara Hoots has launched IndoorCycleDesign.com her Spinning® Indoor Cycling Studio design service. Barbara recently designed the Spinning® Studio for the very exclusive Half Moon Bay Resort in Jamaica - click here > then click Travel Spots for info about teaching opportunities at Half Moon Bay Resort. Originally […]
If you haven't yet, I would encourage you to listen to our latest Podcast that features 26 year old Cycling Studio owner Jessica Bashelor. If you're short on time, you really only need to hear the lead in where she describes her vision for her studio. I knew that I wanted to have a really […]
The Indoor Cycling Studio Supplier Trifecta As an Indoor Cycling studio owner or manager, you want your supplier relationships to be a WIN/WIN/WIN where your supplier wins…your customer wins…and you win. Find the right retail supplier and you add value to the overall customer experience and to your bottom line. On the flip side, choosing […]
I suppose I should start this by answering your question; "what exactly is their Golden Hour, John?" It's my description of the 60 minutes, that follows the first 30 minutes, of aerobic activity. For you, me and many (if not most) of the students in your class, we all have a period of time where […]
Have you ever had someone say something so revolutionary, that it smacks you hard in the face and knocks you completely off balance? It happened to me today and I'm still reeling with the potential of this exciting new method of creating great class playlists. Let me explain... While preparing to record our latest Audio […]
Joey speaks with Jan Hunter of Bike-O-Vision about their new streaming service on Vimeo and the Tortola DVD for indoor cycling classes.
Fitness author Pamela Light joins me to discuss her article in the latest IDEA Fitness Journal — Crystal-Clear Cuing for Indoor Cycling. In it, Pamela encourages Instructors to: Be smart about the exertion scale you use to help participants get the best ride. Excellent Instructors use a system to describe what they expect for performance, […]
Here's the second Video PROfile from Stage 5 Cycling's Tom Scotto, that I recorded during the Indoor Cycling Certification training we took earlier this month. You may want to review ICI/PRO Podcast #95 — RPMx Audio PROfile with Tom Scotto from Stage 5 Cycling var playerhost = (("https:" == document.location.protocol) ? "https://icipromedia.s3.amazonaws.com/ezs3js/secure/" : "http://icipromedia.s3.amazonaws.com/ezs3js/player/"); document.write(unescape("%3Cscript […]
By Team ICG® Trainer Elliott Bringman Growing up cycling and swimming, I never knew that without a flexibility regimen, the muscles would tighten more and more and, cumulatively, end up rigid. Rigidity, in the long run, decreases range of motion, which is detrimental to optimal performance. Performance aside, tight muscles affect how you feel in […]
Proceeds to benefit LIVESTRONG From: http://www.pitchengine.com 11.24.2010— COTTAGE GROVE, Wis. — In January, LIVESTRONG® Fitness by Johnson Health Tech will release the LS28IC, a special-edition indoor training cycle honoring the 28 million people living with cancer today (MSRP: $1699). LIVESTRONG Fitness plans to release a total of 500, individually-numbered cycles. With each purchase, $1,000 will […]
(A PEP TALK — because we all need some empowerment from time to time) Although I thought I would be preaching to the choir on this topic, I believe we need to stay inspired as much as anyone. We are the ones using all of our energies to change the face of indoor cycling. We […]
ICI/PRO member Kristin Krantzman makes an excellent point here in her comment, to my earlier post about sound levels. I have one student that really complains about the loudness of the music. She has tried wearing special noise protectors. She tells me that I am damaging my own hearing as well as that of my students if […]
Welcome to the The Weekly Ride by Cycling Fusion Welcome to our new era of The Weekly Ride, you get: Full Ride PDF Apple Music Playlist Spotify Playlist File to Download the Ride directly into My Fitness DJ (Yes, no Programming) The Ride will be available for purchase in the iClass Builder Store (No Programming) […]
I love answering questions from Instructors 🙂 Hi John, Since you are a Spotify guru, I thought you might know the answer to this question: Spotify says their music is for non-commercial use and that you can't use it to play at even a school. I haven't found anything from Spotify mentioning that it isn't […]
She was close to yelling when I walked into the studio. "I'm so excited you came back John!" "I haven't been able to find you on Facebook or Spotify, so I wasn't able to find the playlist you used the last time you were here..." I subbed last night at the Life Time Fitness corporate […]
This week I have the extraordinary privilege to be working from my balcony in Punta Cana. I have never been to an all inclusive resort before, and it is quite the experience. The grounds are beautiful, you can go to any of the many restaurants or bars on the property, and there always seems to […]
Instructor and Zoning Specialist Kay Mamo joins me to discuss her version of a Cycle & Strength class and then provides the profile and music suggestions that you can use to teach you own class of this format. In case you missed it, I subbed a "Cycle - Sculpt" class a few weeks ago and […]
I love group display systems. I mean I really really really love group display systems. Systems like Performance IQ and My Zone make classes so much more interactive and they magically make participants work so much harder AND smarter. I teach at multiple locations in the Denver area and two of them use group display […]
My wife suggested that some listeners (and a certain Group Fitness Podcast Host) may not understand the "subscribe in iTunes" thing. So I made a short video that demonstrates subscribing to her new show; Group Fitness Talk Radio! It takes you through the whole process and includes how to set up your iPod so everything […]
ICI/PRO member Joey, a Cycling Fusion Master Instructor and routine contributor to The Weekly Ride on ICI/PRO, delivers a ride. What an exciting day, this is our first ride recording. We will certainly get better at the audio, but you should still find this enjoyable. Take a few moments to listen to my ride. The […]
I'm really curious how you would respond; would you teach for SoulCycle? But before you answer, imagine you had the following conversation at the end of your last class... A women approaches while you're collecting your stuff. "Hi [wlm_firstname]." "My name is Elizabeth Cutler and I really enjoyed your class tonight." You respond; "you're welcome Elizabeth." "I enjoyed […]
As a long time educator, I’ve learned some lessons that have been very valuable to me as I added ‘Cycling Instructor’ to my resume. One of the things that I’ve learned over my years in education is how much my students and parents appreciate being connected to what’s going on in the classroom. In addition, […]
John, you absolutely need to interview this new customer of our's in Boston... she's only 25 years old and it sounds like her Indoor Cycling Studio is really doing well! I was talking with Gina Perrault from MINDBODY Online last month, at their conference in LA. I had asked her if she knew of a […]
"Because that's where the money is..." was famous American bank robber Willie Sutton's reported answer to the question; "Willie why do you rob banks?" I can imagine a similar conversation with an upscale restaurant owner; "so why do you cater to business people?" "Because they regularly entertain important clients and pay with expense accounts!" Now that […]
Now I feel very important 🙂 Keith at Cadence Revolution used my intro to Podcast #128. Check it out http://cadencerevolution.com/index.php/2009/08/cadence-revolution-128/ Originally posted 2009-08-11 17:34:05.
WOW! What an exhausting (but fun and productive) week at the IDEA fitness conference in LA. There is so much I want to share with everyone and I hope to post as much as possible over the next week or so. I'll start with the best part, meeting some ICI/PRO members who were attending! I […]
Welcome to the The Weekly Ride by Cycling Fusion Welcome to our new era of The Weekly Ride, you get: Full Ride PDF Apple Music Playlist Spotify Playlist File to Download the Ride directly into My Fitness DJ (Yes, no Programming) The Ride will be available for purchase in the iClass Builder Store (No Programming) […]
Welcome to the The Weekly Ride by Cycling Fusion: No more hunting for new music or counting out cues. Here is your ready to ride document, that can be displayed from your phone, or printed out onto cue cards. This ride is timed out, down to the second, to make your life as easy as […]
Here's the profile I used a while ago in our Performance Cycle FTP assessment. [wlm_private 'PRO-Platinum|PRO-Monthly|PRO-Gratis|PRO-Seasonal|Platinum-trial|Monthly-trial|PRO-Military|30-Days-of-PRO|90 Day PRO|Stages-Instructor|Schwinn-Instructor|Instructor-Bonus|28 Day Challenge'] 1/25 75 min FTP Class Klangstrahler Projekt — Extremely Well At 10:47 Extremely Well is a perfect warm up song. Plenty of quiet early to give you time to announce the class format - followed by […]
Check out the set DJ Joe mixed up during the Roadless Ride while his wife Sara led the class. http://pro-contributors.s3.amazonaws.com/DJ_Joe_Roadless_Ride_2015.mp3 Right Click and follow directions below to download To download any of the above media on a Mac: Right Click on the blue underlined link Select "Download Linked File As" Select a download location Once […]
The Self-Fulfilling Prophecy. Over the last 2 years I've been performing a FTP (Functional Threshold Power) test on the first Thursday and Friday of every month in every facility I teach in that has bikes with power. I have yet to have anyone complain or comment that I test too often or that the […]
Heading to a spin class? Check out these tips first for the best experience... We love to ride our bikes outside, but sometimes a spin class is a quick way to get a super intense fitness fix that could see you reaping serious benefits in power and speed. Spinning is addictive and you’ll usually spot a […]
With the arrival of 2022, the pressure is on to come up with a New Year’s resolution that you can actually stick to. Of course, you could forego the whole thing altogether, but where’s the fun in that? Setting one or several resolutions gives you a framework to plan your year around, something to aim […]
Meet your new ride or dies. Thinking about investing in some home gym equipment? Look no further than an indoor exercise bike. This form of exercise promises to get your heart-rate up and muscles burning. Through extensive research, review of online ratings, and expert recommendations, these 12 exercise bikes stood out from the rest. Get […]
Cameron Chinatti from Stages Indoor Cycling is looking for Instructors and participants who know their FTP (Functional Threshold Power). I'm not sure exactly what she's doing with the results of this survey - but it only will take you two minutes to complete, so please click over and share your awesome wattage number. It's anonymous […]
Gene Nacey from Cycling Fusion provides our latest Audio PROfile and it was created using his new Class Builder iPhone App. Class Overview This class was first held during the final week of a 12 week Winter Training workshop that emphasized and reminded riders that “What you do inside, can also be done outside”. In […]
Social Media has grown to become the primary method of marketing for Indoor Cycling Studios. Which makes sense. Many of your prospective customers are active on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram - and you can't beat the cost. All it takes is posting a few pretty pictures or clever sayings and SHAZAM! you get a bunch […]
For the past two year's or so I have been lobbying for a universal "Standard" for the description of Heart Rate Training Zones. The purpose is to get all of us talking with a common language, so we aren't confusing our students and help them reach their weight loss goals by training more effectively. I love what we have […]
Stages Indoor Cycling's Dunte Hector joins me to discuss his ideas about integrating power, while using your existing music playlists. Brilliant in its simplicity and so easy to implement... I wish I had thought of it myself. Learn Dunte's trick below. We actually recorded this PRO Podcast back several years ago and we mention that […]
Here is a potential way for you to monetize your passion for Indoor Cycling. In this special interview/demonstration video Dirk Friel from TrainingPeaks.com explains how his online coaching software can be used to generate income for Spinning Instructors like you! USE THIS LINK TO VIEW THE ENTIRE VIDEO You will also find the full length […]
A common theme in conversations I am having these days is; "today we we find ourselves right here... what do we need to do differently if we want to end up somewhere else next year?" I have created a short survey (it should only take about 2 minutes) to learn where you are with Heart […]
Have you ever met someone and liked them instantly? You can't explain why but you immediately felt an emotional bond. I'm not talking about sexual attraction, but rather a genuine and wholesome feeling of fondness and respect towards this person. In a job interview, you are more likely to be hired if the interviewer connects […]
When I first upgraded to Spotify Premium back in August, I was excited to try something new, but a little disappointed and apprehensive because it wasn”™t as easy as I thought it was going to be. Change is never easy. But I kept at it and now I think I”™m able to navigate it quite […]
By Team ICG® Master Trainer Jim Karanas - The experience of flow remains one of the least-understood phenomena in training. Yet it”™s one of the richest, most memorable experiences we can help deliver to our students. Creating the circumstances though which students can experience flow in a training session is the topic of this article. […]
Have you been having a hard time figuring out how to download media from the ICI/Pro website? Try following these directions and let me know if it helps: To download media to a Mac: Right Click on the blue underlined link Select "Download Linked File As" Select a download location Once file is […]
If you watched any of this year's Tour de France, you almost couldn't miss seeing Clean Bottle's mascot Bottle Boy running along with the Peloton. As I watched and listened as Phil Ligget and the other Tour commentators talking about Dave Mayer and Clean Bottle, all I could think was "who ever is behind (or inside) […]
This Podcast is was originally published on May 7, 2017, I have updated it with our new Podcast host information and I am representing it now. I hope you enjoy it, Joey The latest issue of ACE Certified News features an article: Create Safe, Effective Indoor Cycling Classes. The author, health and fitness writer Karen Asp […]
In the last Video PROfile in this series Tom Scotto shows you how to bring all of this together and coach Criterium Sprints. If you would like more information about this very unique form of bicycle racing here. The Cyclists in your class will enjoy these more if you incorporate Epic RaceDay - the bicycle […]
Check out my latest Power of 3 Harmonically Mixed Music Videos Set. Non-Members can watch these 3 videos on YouTube Premium Members can watch and download this video for free by following the link below: [wlm_private 'PRO-Platinum|PRO-Monthly|PRO-Gratis|PRO-Seasonal|Platinum-trial|Monthly-trial|PRO-Military|30-Days-of-PRO|90 Day PRO|Stages-Instructor|Schwinn-Instructor|Instructor-Bonus|28 Day Challenge'] http://pro-contributors.s3.amazonaws.com/Dennis/Power_of_3_Video_Papa_Was_A_Rollin_Stone_I_Wish_The_Letter.mp4 Right click to download this Video in HD The Power of 3 […]
Math, for some of us, isn't our strong suit... especially when you are trying to compute specific training zones on the fly using Lactic/Anaerobic Thresholds (LT/AT) or Functional Threshold Power (FTP) MTB coach Curt Wilhelm has created two easy to use, online tools you can find here. Coach Linda Wallenfels has a similar tool here. And for […]
Christian Noni wants to hire you as an Instructor at Revelry Indoor Cycling and Fitness. But there's a catch to his interview process... he's looking for Instructors / coaches who've experienced inspiration from fitness, who have seen the light.. the proof.. (whether it be weight loss, winning a triathlon, or even had a wild […]
Here's the week 2 profile progression for the month of January 2016 Below I'll post recordings of me teaching this profile in my various classes. Check back because I'll be adding more recordings throughout the week: Right Click to download a recording of me teaching this profile on the Stages SC3 using power and my Some […]
This FreeMotion promotion has ended. Purchase a FreeMotion S11.0, indoor cycle at Amazon and get free shipping. Now practicing your latest Power class profile or learning your latest virtual ride at home is within your reach! FreeMotion is shipping a complete Power/RPM console with each S11 series indoor cycles ordered by our readers. Check out my FreeMotion S11.0 […]
Here is part two of our conversation with Doug Rusho. Listen to the Podcast below http://indoorcycleinstructor.com.s3.amazonaws.com/099_Doug_pt2.mp3 Originally posted 2010-04-23 11:28:50.
The look on Tom Scotto's face says everything! That's real mountain climbing, at Threshold, in Spain. Tom was in Spain last week with Gene Nacey to film another in the series of Global Ride Indoor Cycling DVDs If you have a few minutes I encourage you to watch the short video below where Tom and Gene […]
Cameron Chinatti excitedly emailed me about a discovery she made while reading The Power Meter Handbook: A User's Guide for Cyclists and Triathletes which is a new eBook from Endurance Coach Joe Friel. In this new ebook, Joe lays out a simple formula that you can use to "ballpark" a student's FTP Functional Threshold Power (or […]
Week #2 of my Performance Cycle class and I introduced the concept of using your stage average watts as a "riding buddy" today + had a nice email when I got home. Hi John- Thank you so much for the great class this morning. I took a picture of my results when I was finished. […]
This article from Seth Godin speaks to what Jennifer and I discuss about the differences between being and Amateur, Hobbyist or a Professional Indoor Cycling Instructor in Podcast number 68 The myth of preparation There are three stages of preparation. (For a speech, a product, an interview, a sporting event...) The first I'll call the […]
This is interesting and it fits right into the whole Indoor Cycling 2.0 concept. Using software to build your Spinning Class profile has always something I have been interested in trying. I will look at getting someone from their company on the Podcast. More info here. August 27th Update - Look for a Video Podcast […]
Thanksgiving is not just a holiday that comes once a year. Thanks giving can make every day of your life a holiday and you a celebrity! I will show you how. The most powerful thing that you can do to make your life (no matter what you are experiencing) the best that it can be, […]
Updated 10/30 below Short notice... it's tomorrow night. Here's the email invitation I received: EDGE Cycle kick-off with Bahram Akradi & quests This will be the 1st class offering in Minnesota of our “new” EDGE CYCLE signature Indoor cycle format! Expect to have an experience that includes results, heart rate and community all with the future technology of LT Connect Class time: 5:30-6:30pm First come, first serve. We […]
I've been sharing my Power of 3 Harmonically Mixed Music Sets with you all for a while. Now I'm going to take a shot at harmonically mixing videos. I hope you like it. These videos on YouTube. Premium Members can download this Video for free by following the link below: [wlm_private 'PRO-Platinum|PRO-Monthly|PRO-Gratis|PRO-Seasonal|Platinum-trial|Monthly-trial|PRO-Military|30-Days-of-PRO|90 Day PRO|Stages-Instructor|Schwinn-Instructor|Instructor-Bonus|28 Day […]
Strong Is The New Skinny! I like the sound of that 🙂 Every month, as an Instructor at Life Time Fitness, I receive a copy of their Experience Life Magazine. In the April issue an article about Building a Better Body Image caught my attention. John and I both wanted to learn more so we invited Health and Fitness […]
Updated: 11/23 Flywheel Sports is a chain of Indoor Cycling studios who started in New York city. They have had tremendous results and growth, now with 12 locations in three states; New York, Florida and Illinois. A big part of their success has come from a proprietary retro-fit system they have engineered to measure each […]
If you”™re about to start teaching a class that includes both cycling and rowing, here are a few tips. Stay off the bike. To handle all the variables in a cycling/rowing class, you”™ll need to be on your feet, moving around the room. Will you warm up? On-bike stretches won”™t work in a split class. […]
I feel so foolish. When I listed the members of the ICI/PRO Team I completely forgot to include a very important person (whom I describe as my Angel), ICI/PRO member Nina Israel! Nina contacted me after the conference last fall, asking if she could contribute in some way. When I asked her what did beyond teaching, […]
I hate math, especially when I'm forced to do quick calculations in my head. Figuring (forgive the pun) that many other people dislike math, I won't ask anyone to do any calculations in my classes. For example, I would never cue something to the effect of; now I need everyone at 85% of AT for […]
Recovery is one of those interesting words that can be used to describe two completely opposite things. We're often discussing recovery as a well deserved period of rest, like some easy pedaling after after a hard effort or simply a fun day that follows a week of focused training. But recovery can also be hard work 🙁 […]
Both the FreeMotion S 11 series and Schwinn AC Indoor Cycles have the ability to record your ride data using a USB Thumb Drive. This past Sunday I asked Alan **, one of my regular students, if he would be willing to have his class performance data recorded so I could share it with you. […]
Can I see a show of hands here? How many of you have sung along to a favorite tune for years, in the safety of your car/shower or (God forbid) over the Instructor Mic, only to learn that you have some of the lyrics completely wrong? Or looked at from the other direction; how many of you have […]
This Podcast is originally from 2008, I have updated it with our new Podcast host information and I am representing it now. I hope you enjoy it. While the New Leaf systems are not easy to find anymore, KORR Medical Technologies (https://korr.com/) does have Metabolic Testing equipment that is available. Perhaps we will have them […]
Welcome to the The Weekly Ride by Cycling Fusion Welcome to our new era of The Weekly Ride, you get: Full Ride PDF Apple Music Playlist Spotify Playlist File to Download the Ride directly into My Fitness DJ (Yes, no Programming) The Ride will be available for purchase in the iClass Builder Store (No Programming) […]
The new year is upon us and the fitness resolution rush is about to begin. It's our job to embrace these new riders and to do our very best to keep them coming back. Studies have shown that if we can keep these new years resolution riders riding until Valentines Day we have them […]
ICI/PRO member Holly Mishoe sent me this very cute picture of the newest member of the Mishoe family; Tyler Jackson Mishoe. He is such a cute little guy. Hopefully soon he will sleep thought the night but right now he is very hungry and loves to eat all night long. Congratulations Holly and I'm betting […]
Better late than never they say. It certainly applies to this season's Performance Cycle classes - now we're in full swing after some initial confusion that came from a sudden change on GFDH's. We kicked off this past Sunday with an assessment to find the wattage numbers we will be using going forward. I like […]
This class is meant to see if you can't surprise yourself and go just that little bit harder. We will increase our resistance (by gear or watts or HR) 10 times once we warm up. Because both power and heart rate are not linear, but are more exponential, the final 4 increases are half the others.
If you have ever tried to remove the shoe clip from these Schwinn® Triple Link Pedals, then you know exactly what I'm talking about! "Can you help me take these off? Always 2 minutes before class starts & leads to: Bruised knuckles Broken finger nails - 1/2 of us instructors are women You look incompetent […]
My approach to indoor cycling has always been to bring the qualities of cycling outdoors into the indoor cycling studio. On one hand, there are the general qualities of fitness and condition that everyone enjoys, cyclist or not. However, there are definitely attributes of training and riding that appeal specifically to those that enjoy riding […]
By John Macgowan The FreeMotion S11.9 - Keiser M3 and Schwinn AC Performance Indoor Cycles all require calibration at some point. Ensuring that all of the bikes in your studio are calibrated to factory specs will keep them reading consistently from bike to bike and your participants happy 🙂 Regardless of what you may have been told, my suggestion […]
Happy Friday! It's time for my 'Favorite Track(s) of the week! In keeping with last week's theme, I've been all about Shazaming (is that even a word??) commercials. The first song I've been using a lot lately was released back in March but somehow has slipped my radar until now. It is featured in a Coca […]
Where does the time go? It seems like just last month I was busy completing the last few of the 20 credit hours (2.0 CECs) I needed for my ACE group fitness Instructor renewal. Actually it was two years ago and at the time, I took advantage of the free CEC's offered by Team ICG. […]
If you”™ve done stomps in your cycling workouts, you may think I”™m crazy when I say this, but I”™ve always liked them. They”™re extremely tough but appeal to that twisted part of me that enjoys hard training. (I know: you”™ve got that part, too.) If you haven”™t done stomps, they”™re designed to increase power in […]
By Team ICG® Master Trainer Jim Karanas Using power/watts conventionally in indoor cycling improves students”™ fitness. But it”™s the tip of the iceberg, a small projection of the immense power below the surface. Consider, instead, introducing the concept of effortless power in your classes. Without the inner aspect, indoor cycling can limit students”™ imagination, causing […]
Myth #6 You should be concerned with setting the saddle height too high. If you've taught for any length of time you have probably observed that; left to their own devises, our participants will universally have their saddles set somewhere between just right and too low. I discussed how you should approach these low riders in […]
When the weather is nice, do you ride your bike to the club and then teach your Indoor Cycling class? Just curious... Originally posted 2010-06-20 11:59:21.
As many of you know I've worn many hats in the fitness industry, I've been an Assistant General Manager, Operations Manager, Fitness Director, Triathlon Coach, Master Swim Team Coach, Master Educator, Personal Trainer, Group Exercise and Indoor Cycling Instructor. Throughout my almost 25 years in this customer service industry I have heard many member […]
This Podcast is was originally published on May 16, 2009, I have updated it with our new Podcast host information and I am representing it now. I hope you enjoy it, Joey Dennis Kesier, founder of Keiser Corporation and the Engineer of their M3 Indoor Cycling bike, joins me to talk about the physics of […]
Two Recordings of Me teaching this profile on the Stages SC3 IC Bike June 21st, 2016 Class Recording. http://pro-contributors.s3.amazonaws.com/Dennis/Simple_and_Progress_Pyramids_3_GATC.mp3 June 22nd, 2016 Class Recording http://pro-contributors.s3.amazonaws.com/Dennis/Simple_and_Progress_Pyramids_3_CACDTC.mp3 Click Here to download VismoX Below, Premium Members can follow links to download all the above media, view and download a printable Class Profile that […]
Helping prospective Indoor Cycling studio owners with their business planning is part of my Instructor Employment Initiative - encouraging the formation of new studios... which creates more places for Instructors to teach and will (at least I'm hearing) create upwards pressure on class pay rates! ICI/PRO member Rowan Platel contacted me recently with questions about […]
Between sessions last weekend Master Instructor Cameron Chinatti took me aside and told me how impressed she was with the quality of Instructors at the conference. Wanting for you to hear it first hand, I invited Cameron back for a post conference interview for the latest episode of the ICI Podcast. We also discussed Cameron's […]
There's an old saying that goes; "I've been at this so long... I've forgotten much of what I didn't know, when I first started." I've taught Indoor Cycling classes since 1998ish. A long time ago for sure. Even back then I had an advantage over most new Instructors. I'm married to the "Senior Group Fitness […]
Part 1: Are you an entrepreneur? If it”™s done right, a cycling studio can be a profitable and enormously rewarding way to spend your time. After all, what could be better than treating friends and neighbors to a workout that is helping them live a happier and healthier life? Free Registration Required to continue — Click Here. Opens […]
If you've followed indoorcycleinstructor.com for any length of time you know that I'm a huge fan of the 2T/3Z method of Heart Rate training which is the basis for Zoning. That simple Blue/Yellow/Red response from my Blink Heart Rate monitor is (to me) the perfect way to introduce zone based heart rate training into your class. […]
It's a beautiful sunny Minnesota summer day here and I was enjoying it out on my old mountain bike. One of the reasons Minneapolis is as such a bicycle friendly city are the trails running everywhere. I really enjoy these smooth gravel paths because I can spend a couple hours JRA - Just Riding Along - […]
Now, as a patented inventor myself, I'm intimately aware of the difficulties of securing a US Patent. Hat's off to Sally Edwards and Chuck Cali for making the case that their Threshold Training System is truly original and worthy of U.S. Pat. #8092381! On January 12, 2012, the federal patent office extended to ZONING Fitness […]
I was intrigued by the new Evo Indoor Cycle when I saw it at this past IHRSA. The first thing I noticed was there's no big flywheel... and it moves side to side. Once I discovered that there was an educational component to the Evo, I knew I needed to learn more and share what […]
In my last article entitle “Make Recovery Work” we looked at how we as instructors can efficiently use recovery time to our advantage. Two of the main points were to use recovery as a time to provide instruction to prepare our riders for what is ahead and as a way to administer the “Recovery Litmus […]
Our family has nick-names for just about everything; Ruby, Jade, Baby Rocket and Scootie are in actuality; my red Mazda 3, Abby's green Mazda 3, Amy's black Acura TL and Carly's Honda Scooter. No, you don't want my car insurance bill 🙁 But when one of them (or some other mechanical / electronic device) has […]
I spent the morning volunteering at the Life Time Fitness Commitment Day 5K run in downtown Minneapolis. It was the perfect morning to prove your commitment to fitness; sunny and 10° below zero... that's -10° Fahrenheit = painfully cold. That's why the smart people like me volunteered, so we could stay inside where it was warm 🙂 I […]
As the "Senior Group Fitness Instructor" here I insisted that John set me up with an ICI/PRO membership. Now I'm using it to take advantage of the Pearl Izumi discount program. It dawned on me that I could do a bunch of Christmas shopping for my Instructor friends and our two daughters online. Abby (our […]
Welcome to the The Weekly Ride by Cycling Fusion Ok, this is the week that I have been working towards, this is our new era of The Weekly Ride. This week and moving forward you will get: Full Ride PDF Apple Music Playlist Spotify Playlist File to Download the Ride directly into My Fitness DJ […]
Are we losing some of the people in our classes with all this talk of; Max HR =bad & Threshold HR = good, T1 & T2, Training Zones, Functional Threshold Power, Watts, Kilo-calories, etc...? Spinning® & Indoor Cycling has been around for over 15 years and yet my perception is that only a minority of our students have embraced Zone Based […]
ICI/PRO member question from ICI/PRO Podcast #203 Cycle Strong Audio PROfile What exactly should the "openers" in the warm-up consist of? In Tom's "Getting Started with Intervals" audio profile, he described them as 30 seconds of maximum effort followed by 30 seconds of recovery, which to me sounds the same as the first Muscular Strength […]
When a student asks what they should purchase for Indoor Cycling Shoes, what do you recommend? Do you have a place to send them? Does your club sell Indoor Cycling Shoes? If you're only using them for Indoor Cycling classes, then a shoe with a recessed SPD cleat is the best choice. Often refered to as […]
Welcome to the The Weekly Ride by Cycling Fusion: No more hunting for new music or counting out cues. Here is your ready to ride document, that can be displayed from your phone, or printed out onto cue cards. This ride is timed out, down to the second, to make your life as easy as […]
Last week I was asked to sub a couple of classes for another instructor and friend. It was at a club that I used to teach at and where I still knew a number of the members. I always like teaching at this particular club because the riders throw out some good energy and appreciate […]
I'm a big Shazamer (not sure if that's a real word) cause I'm constantly Shazaming music I hear throughout my day. Watching TV, in the car, during other Instructor's class - pretty much anywhere. I've even looked into finding a way to create a "hot button" on my iPhone so I could quicken the process […]
I want everyone to meet Steve Frank - Master Instructor with the Indoor Cycling Group/LIVESTONG Fitness. Steve and I met in Chicago last month at club industry. I knew instantly he would be someone you'd enjoy meeting and a wonderful addition to our ICI/PRO Team. Why? I meet a lot of people in the fitness business. […]
New Audio PROfile from MI Tom Scotto DESCRIPTION This class targets the high-end fitness of your riders including their aerobic, anaerobic and muscular capacity — their upmost limits. Although all of their limits are challenged, the greater focus is placed on anaerobic endurance. Specifically, how long can a rider last at an intensity when a great amount of […]
Occasionally I'll see stories pop up where a class participant writes a review of an Indoor Cycling class he or she took. What makes this review noteworthy is that Bryan Ganey, the writer of this review, has lost an incredible 400 pounds and has written a book about his surgery-free, weight loss journey. First Bryan's […]
Can the sounds of breathing identify the metabolic changes during exercise that are described as VT1 aerobic threshold & VT2 anaerobic threshold? There's promising research conducted by Breath Research and Dr. Carl Foster at UW Lacrosse. Here's your chance to support this cutting edge technology that could potentially replace conventional metabolic testing, for the purposes […]
By Team ICG® Master Trainer Jim Karanas We”™re not wired to seek out pain. Human evolution developed and adapted a neurological system and sensory perception for reducing pain and seeking pleasure. Easy-to-moderate cardio conditioning is of a manageable intensity that feels good. Once someone gets past the initial discomfort of moving the body and sitting […]
I missed IDEA this year but our Man on the Street Chuck Cali was there. In this video Chuck interviews a number of Instructors who took part in the demonstration classes of MyRide+ from Team ICG. This goes to my earlier post about the potential of constructing a studio in a way that will really […]
Sally Edwards was the very first "Fitness Celebrity" I interviewed on the Indoor Cycle Instructor Podcast. Way back on September 29th of 2008, Sally and I recorded ICI Podcast #7 — Sally Edwards talks Heart Zones Training Since then Sally has been incredibly helpful to me, both in my personal training and professionally as an Instructor. She's been […]
That sucks! You thought you are doing everything right. You feel you've been a model employee for over 8 years. You're always punctual and prepared to teach a great class. The members seem to enjoy you and you've had consistently good attendance numbers. Other Instructors appreciate your willingness to sub for them and you (maybe mistakenly) […]
The debate over cardio vs. high-intensity interval training (HIIT) usually assumes that the issue is an either/or choice. In that debate, HIIT is usually compared to absurdly low levels of cardio exercise — not to the kinds of classes ICI-PRO instructors probably teach. This post explores the evolutionary value of combining cardio and HIIT. In […]
Here's another "Play it and Forget it" 60 minute music mix. I've been teaching more and more with power and Stages IQ and these 60 minute music mixes let me focus on the profile and technology and not worry about the playlist. I hope you like it. Premium Members, follow the link […]
The crew at epicplanet.tv have produced a new DVD you can show in your Indoor Cycling classes. The Virtual Race Across America is a 60 minute (there's also a 45 minute option) DVD or Video that was created using footage shot during the 2013 RAAM Race Across America. Ride the entire length of the U.S. in […]
This story and drawing was originally posted March 24 2011 in the New York Times. By Spinning Instructor Christi Clancy THEY kissed! Nobody kisses in spin class. A roomful of sweaty people panting atop steel bikes with 30-pound flywheels is no place for romance, and certainly no place for my friend”™s ex-husband to show up […]
This week”™s favorite track was originally released exclusively for iTunes when they launched Apple Music back on June 30th. Pharrell Williams”™ Freedom was also released just in time for the July 4th holiday, so it”™s definitely a great one to keep in mind for next year”™s Independence Day playlist or if you”™re ever making a […]
As I hit the streets after teaching at one of my downtown clubs, I bumped into a friend of mine who appear to have been run over by a car. She had a large gym bag clawing at her shoulder with cycling shoes peeking out of the end pocket. The bag apparently weighs over 50 […]
After 37 years of waiting we finally have another Triple Crown Winner. I love horse racing, the beauty, the grace and the power of these animals is intoxicating. Over the last 37 years there have been many horses that have won 2 of the 3 Triple Crown races, but they have no one has been […]
Welcome to the The Weekly Ride by Cycling Fusion No more hunting for new music or counting out cues to develop your ride profile. Here is your ready to ride profile for a fully choreographed ride, that can be displayed from your phone, or printed out onto cue cards for your class. This ride is […]
Ed Hayes is a listener and member of our community. Ed Hayes is 75 today March 8th 2009 and to celebrate he taught a 2- hour Indoor Cycling Class! Looking at his picture I'm guessing 75 is the new 50. Check out his certifications: ACSM Certified Health Fitness Specialist. Reebock Cycling Group Exercise YMCA and Silver […]
As an aging cyclist, I see this as a huge improvement on the old foam roller. Lots more information available at the Trigger Point web site. Originally posted 2010-09-17 16:22:16.
I've been watching the steady growth of the Association of Fitness Studios (AFS) and was recently invited to join as a member of their Advisory Council. From the AFS press release: NEWS RELEASE Nash, Macgowan Join AFS Advisory Council (CHICAGO, ILLINOIS, August 7, 2015) — The Association of Fitness Studios (AFS) today proudly announced the […]
I love seeing stuff like this! ICI/PRO member Joe Ducosin was the front cover model of our local community magazine - you look great Joe 🙂 Joe's Cycle Quest Studio runs a regular weight loss challenge and it was featured in this article; Southwest Metro Fitness Challenges - Local gyms and fitness studios offer motivation for kicking your metabolism to a […]
By Jennifer Lintz, Registered Dietitian and ICI PRO Contributor A few days ago, I attended one of my colleagues' classes. The ride was top notch from start to finish, but one drill in particular got me thinking. Towards the middle of class, Lori (the instructor) told us we would be doing a climb. I can't […]
Our very own Melissa Marotta & Barbara Hoots will be co-leading the 11th Annual Special Olympics 6-Hour "Ride for a Reason" on Saturday, March 19 in Burlington, Vermont. Joined by Spinning® Master Instructors Angie Scott and Anthony Musemici, Melissa and Barbara will be leading 100+ riders to raise money to support the children and young adults […]
So I decided to lead my first virtual ride this past week. In my true style, I didn”™t just try it in one of my classes but at all 5 clubs. I like to just throw myself into things so I can learn and experience while the iron is hot. For those not familiar with […]
I love sharing anything created by public speaking expert Alexa Fischer. She has just published part one of a free video series. I just finished watching this 13 min video and felt you may enjoy learning how to move past the negative thoughts that could be holding you back from effortlessly connecting with your riders. […]
“This weeks ride is from Amy! - This is a copy of one of the rides that Amy does during the Cycling Fusion Certifications to show the new instructors a sampling of various drills that they can use to build their rider”™s skills.” Joey Short version of the ride PDF is available HERE. Get […]
Master Instructor Tom Scotto's latest Audio PROfile OBJECTIVE AND INTENSITY The objective of Getting Started With Intervals Audio PROfile is to allow riders to first understand that there are many ways to perform intervals. An “interval” is just a duration of time. Not only can the amount of time spent during each interval vary, but […]
Update from John: This post was originally published in June of last year, shortly before we lost Jim. I thought Jim's wisdom could add to our current conversation about SoulCycle, so I'm re-publishing this today. By Team ICG® Master Trainer Jim Karanas Why would anyone want to do it? It”™s crazy. What about the bike? […]
Ladies (sorry guys this isn't for you) meet Brooke Freiborg from the Moxie Cycling Co. Brooke and her partner Deb Amorde have created a new line of women's cycling tops that I love and feel you should consider wearing for your next class - especially now that ICI/PRO Platinum members can receive a 40% off your purchase through our Instructor […]
You can add Cycling Studio Owner Nairi Petrosian to the list of Smart & Talented people involved in Indoor Cycling - listen to this interview and you'll know why. Nairi and her business partner Kirsty Baldwin successfully raised $30,011.00 with an Indiegogo crowdsourcing campaign that closed August 29th of this year. They're using the money to […]
JANUARY 10, 2017 I received the following text message from a customer... Your new employee Boomer Rose. He has a history of drug use. On supervised probation. Everyone deserves a second chance. We all make mistakes but just want you to be aware. MEET BOOMER Boomer works at TheBarn. ****** I used to be 300 pounds. I used to […]
If you teach "Club Athletes", what many of us see as the majority of the student in our classes, and want to educate your students / clients on Heart Rate training program, I highly recommend you look into Zoning Fitness. In the video below, Chuck Cali and Sally Edwards present the Zoning Can - a complete […]
Created by: Cameron Chinatti / Stagesâ„¢ Indoor Cycling Training Type: All levels -- beginner friendly Cycling Specificity: Introduction to metrics Total Class Length: 45 minutes Note from John: Cameron”™s PROfile is specific to the FreeMotion S11 series of indoor cycles. With a little creativity on your part this profile could be used with any brand […]
Finding a sub for your typical Indoor Cycling class can be a real challenge at times... finding someone qualified to coach a room full of experienced cyclists and endurance athletes expecting a Performance Cycle class can be nearly impossible. Impossible that is unless you happen to be friends with a popular, local cycling coach like […]
By Team ICG® Master Trainer Jim Karanas Two things prompted this post. One was John”™s post showing video as one more distraction in a distraction-filled studio (see “Virtual Engagement or Virtual Distraction?”, 7/22/12). The other was my concern about what might happen if instructors and students learned about cycling with video under such poor circumstances […]
I woke up this morning to a very nice note from Studio Owner Alison Zemanek. Hi John, I just want to express to you how much I love your site. Thank you for putting together such a wonderful resource! I recently opened a Cycling Studio in Longmont, CO (BreakAway Cycle & Strength Studio). I was lucky […]
If you're sad you couldn't make it to Boston to ride with Tom Scotto - be happy - he's presenting at the Heart Zones To The Max Conference in Seattle WA on November 4th - 6th 2011. Club ZUM Fitness 1813 7th Avenue (at Olive Street) Seattle, WA 98101 Tom will be presenting along side […]
This 45 minute free video could make a splash in your next endurance class - especially if you have a large number of women participants. With so much of the sport dominated by men, I found this video featuring professional cyclist Liz Hatch refreshing. Yes guys, that Liz Hatch 🙂 This video is a production […]
Welcome to the The Weekly Ride by Cycling Fusion Welcome to our new era of The Weekly Ride, you get: Full Ride PDF Apple Music Playlist Spotify Playlist File to Download the Ride directly into My Fitness DJ (Yes, no Programming) The Ride will be available for purchase in the iClass Builder Store (No Programming) […]
What are you doing on Saturday April 28th? How about participating in what could become the largest Indoor Cycling fundraising event ever? The people from the Wish Upon A Hero Foundation contacted me and asked if I would help promote their event. Once I understood what they do and who they help (over 88,000 wishes […]
You didn't notice it getting dressed and it wasn't there early in class, it just kind of snuck up on you. One minute you're JRA (Just Riding Along) and the next you begin to catch little whiffs of an odor, not pleasant, that makes you appreciate your position up front and away from anyone else. […]
As near as I can tell, I've been wearing the same pair of Sidi cycling shoes (basic black & boring) for the past 10 years. I'm not complaining, they have held up well despite all my inside and outside training. It's just that yesterday in Amy's class a friend of ours (yes - after all these years at the […]
If you've ever asked yourself; "when will there be a video that we could use as part of a Spinning® Class Race Day profile?" The answer is now! Epic Planet has just released Pensacola Stage Race which I see as perfect for a Race Day class or to use during an FTP or AT/LT Heart Rate assessment day. This 60 […]
It is with great pleasure that I introduce Barbara Hoots, one of the new columnists at www.indoorcycleinstructor.com -John By Barbara Hoots It”™s 5:30 a.m. and you can hear the sound of a low but persistent hum in the Spinning room. Listen carefully, and in between the grinding of flywheels you can hear the whispers, “Is […]
Two Recordings of Me teaching this profile on the Stages SC3 IC Bike June 14th, 2016 Class Recording. http://pro-contributors.s3.amazonaws.com/Dennis/Simple_and_Progress_Pyramids_2_on_June_14_at_Greenwood_Athletic_Club.mp3 June 17th,2016 Class Recording http://pro-contributors.s3.amazonaws.com/Dennis/Simple_and_Progress_Pyramids_2_on_June_17_at_Greenwood_Athletic_Club.mp3 65 minute "Play it and Forget it" harmonically mixed music set that was used for the June 14th,2016 recording. This mix was featured in a previous post. You can […]
It”™s Official. With CEU credits being given, and accomplished indoor instructors being challenged, educated and motivated to train with power… I can confidently say we have the real deal. We spent 6 hours off the bike exploring the foundation, science and practical tools of Power Training, and 2 hrs on the bike putting theory into […]
Welcome to the The Weekly Ride by Cycling Fusion No more hunting for new music or counting out cues to develop your ride profile. Here is your ready to ride profile for a fully choreographed ride, that can be displayed from your phone, or printed out onto cue cards for your class. This ride is […]
I love a fun contest where I get to give away something cool to our members 🙂 TeleAnimation - the company in Bavaria that produces FitViewer Indoor Cycling training videos asked if we would promote their comprehensive catalog of virtual cycling videos that include some of the famous Tour de France climbs like; Alpe d'Huez, Col d´Izoard, Col de la Madeleine, Col […]
Because we always want to save the best for our ICI/PRO members, here is the full version of my interview with Coach Kenji Freedman. Kenji wears many hats; USA Elite Level Cycling Coach, Master Trainer at Boston Sports Clubs and Master Cycling Coach with Stage 5 Cycling / Cycling Fusion. Here's the link to friend Kenji on […]
If you are one of those instructors who loves to bring the experience of riding outdoors to your indoor riders, now is the time to get them excited. Give them a taste of the Tour de France and introduce them to some of the fun we enjoy during this special time of year. Maybe we […]
As is customary, I”™ve opened my big mouth and am faced with the proverbial “put up or shut up”. Don”™t get me wrong, I”™m not one to trash talk and overstate my abilities. However, I am one that is always challenging others to accomplish things they think are bigger than themselves; to push past their […]
The posts with more than a couple of comments always catch my attention. It shows a hit on a subject that interests people enough to share their thoughts. I have always considered this forum's primary objective to do just that. Light a fire so-to-speak. That said, the post on Single Leg Pedal Drills got me […]
Whenever I teach an Indoor Cycling class, I try to create an experience that takes the students beyond exercise. A class can affect students even more when video is added. So far, though, video has been used in classes more as a backdrop to create atmosphere than to augment the experience. The trick to teaching […]
While it may seem redundant to say, most indoor bikes do not move. Please, stop and think about that for a moment. We are not talking about forward motion or distance, of course an indoor bike (or an outdoor bike on a trainer) does not move forward. But what about the other motions that are […]
"Why do I make less power (fewer watts) standing, then when I'm seated?" This a a great question that we get often. I loved John's answer, and so I have done a few edits and present it here..... Joey A great questions from one of the riders in a Performance Cycle class. An observation that […]
Working off of the buzz of last week”™s tirade on Tabata training in indoor cycling, I thought I”™d touch on a related cousin that also carries some confusion and thus misuse — High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT). The main contributor to misuse in indoor cycling with training methods like Tabata and HIIT has more to […]
As promised here is Part 2 of Tom Scotto's YOUR Numbers Audio Profile where Tom explains how you can help your students to begin to learn their Heart Rate and Power (watts) numbers. I would love to know how many of you are teaching on the Keiser M3 or New Schwinn AC Performance Indoor Cycles […]
I'm celebrating the one year anniversary of the Indoor Cycle Instructor Podcast! Thank you to everyone who participated or listened over the past year. When I started this Podcast, I was a bit concerned that I would run out of things to talk about. I mean really, Indoor Cycling is such a simple thing. What […]
"For all intents and purposes, your body works exactly like the engine in the car that brought you to the studio today." I like to use that line, especially when I sense I have a bunch of gear heads in the class. First to get their attention by saying something profound and secondly, because it's (grant me […]
I received and email from Arlene de Guzman-Alpuerto If you are near San Marino CA, and a female IC Instructor, you may want to check this out - Dynamic Female indoor cycling instructors with current certification and CPR; min. 1 yr experience, great motivating personality. Need sub and permanent instructors. Facility located in San Marino, […]
If you're new to the whole "Spinning" thing, this video from 1995 featuring Johnny G is an amazing look at the beginning of his new concept of riding indoors. This was posted over at pedal-on. It's interesting to see Johnny's early manufacturing partner Schwinn and the original Johnny G Spinners. If you watch carefully you'll […]
By Jennifer Lintz, Registered Dietitian and ICI/PRO Member Soigneur Recently, I had the opportunity to attend a Schwinn training led by the very talented, energetic, and inspiring Julz Arney. The training was called "All the Right CUES" and boy, oh boy did I walk away with a ton of great information. Julz gave us awesome […]
This Podcast is was originally published on April 27, 2009, I have updated it with our new Podcast host information and I am representing it now. I hope you enjoy it, Joey I love people who see a question and decide to find the answer. Melissa Marotta is just such a person: Spinning Instructor, Medical […]
So you find yourself riding along a smooth, flat section of road. You may have a little wind at you back and you are making good time, as you enjoy the sights and smells of the country. “Hello there Mrs. Cow,” you call out as if one will respond. All that aerobic activity has […]
NOTE: I'll be publishing what I believe are the 10 Myths of Indoor Cycle Rider Setup / Bike Fit on Wednesdays each week, starting today with: Myth #1 - It's proper, for you the instructor, to cue people to draw in their knees. I cringe whenever I hear; "OK people, now I want everyone to […]