Barb Madison

Thirteen years ago when I started SPINNING St. Louis' Original SPINNING had a 30 minute introductory class offered for people to try it out and see how they liked it. They covered the basics of the hand positions, movements and introduced the mind-body connection that is so important in SPINNING, AND you got an abbreviated work-out at the same time. My teenage daughter invited me to go with her, and since she was heading off to college in the fall, I was game to do anything she wanted to do together while I had the chance. I did not exercise at all at that time and the 30 minute class almost killed me. I clearly remember going home and having to take a nap later that afternoon. She loved it and wanted to keep going so back I went. Each time got a little easier and by the time she went to college in the fall - I was hooked. As my confidence and fitness level improved, I expanded my fitness routine, became a certified SPINNING instructor, started weight training and eventually bought a road bike. As a testament to SPINNING'S effectiveness as a training activity - my first time out on my new bike was the day Team SPINNING participated in the Tour de Cure Charity Ride in Grafton, Illinois - I completed the century in just over 5 hours.

I love SPINNING and think it is about the perfect cardiovascular activity. You can do it any time of the year regardless of the weather conditions outside, anyone at any fitness level can participate, you don't have to be athletic or coordinated, there is very low risk for injury and it's inexpensive - a pair of bike shoes and shorts and you are good to go. The group energy is contagious and the music is motivating - I never get tired of it!

I am inspired by our loyal family of SPINNERS at St. Louis' Original SPINNING - many have been coming longer than me. I've had the privilege of seeing people improve their performance, reach their goals and then motivate others to do the same. Getting to be a part of that as a SPINNER and an instructor is what has me keep coming back.