Spinning with the Real Housewives

Cross training is something I've come to enjoy. I get enjoyment out of running - sure - but like most people, it can get a bit boring to do day after day. I seriously envy those of you out there who have no greater pleasure than to run for an hour. Jerks.

There are any number of things that you can do to change up your work out routine. Honestly, anything that isn't running is cross training and anything you do that gets your blood pumping is good for you. For me, it's important to do some weight lifting (I live in New Jersey, remember?) and some cardio which takes the pressure off of my knees. I've found that spinning is my favorite type of cross training for a number of reasons.

Nothing wimpy about this bad boy

Now, I know what you're thinking - spinning is something that girls do - I had this same misconception as well. While it's true a lot of women spin, so do a lot of men. Truth be told, if I'm able to attend a lunch class during the week, I'm usually chilling with the Real Housewives of Princeton. Those Lululemon clad ladies are killing it for 45 minutes though, and so can you.

Let's also make one thing clear - spinning is hard work. There is absolutely nothing wimpy about it. You are cycling with an instructor telling you what terrain to simulate.

The first time I tried it, I thought I'd roll up in there, hop on a bike and cruise through the 45 minute class. After about 10 minutes, I thought I was going to die. After 20, I was convinced I was dead. Not to scare anyone off, but it's a tough workout. It only took about 2 sessions for me to find my pace and get used to the bike, and now I really enjoy it. The instructor pushes you harder than you'd push yourself and they generally play good music to keep you going. Having the instructor direct your workout prevents you from easing up and getting lazy once you start to get tired (I've heard this is what happens, but I wouldn't know anything about that...)

Get out there and find a sport to mix into your fitness routine. The best way to keep at it is to never truly have a "routine". What activities do you do to mix up your workouts?

Drive Slow