Do you take part in indoor cycling or spinning lessons? Are you over 35 or just a classic rock fan? Here are five great classic rock songs that are perfect for your next class…
Indoor cycling classes, often called spinning classes, are becoming more popular group fitness options. Not only are they low impact, but they provide an excellent cardio workout in a fun and stimulating environment.
Of course, music plays a huge role in the level of enthusiasm. Chances are, if you love the songs, you’ll work hard and get the most out of the class. Most trainers have a programmed set menu, but they always agree to the suggestions. And if you’re not a fan of techno or hip-hop, you’ll be happy to know that there are many tried-and-true classic rock stars out there that are perfect for your indoor cycling routine.
In no particular order, here’s a list of the top five classic rock songs for cycling classes:
Cream “Crossroads”.: the driving beat and the groovy music of Ginger Baker, Jack Bruce, and Eric Clapton, known collectively as Cream, really jump this four-minute classic into overdrive. Clapton’s guitar solos at the 1:30 and 2:35 minute marks are a perfect “step forward”. “Crossroads” is a perfect choice for the middle section of the class when the effort level is nearing its peak.
“Train Kept A’ Rolling” by Aerosmith: Powerful bass guitar and a mid-tempo pulse make this song a great choice for a seated hill climber. Pick up the pulse at a moderate resistance level and your heart rate will definitely keep ‘rolling’.
The movie “China Grove” by The Doobie Brothers: Everyone knows this Doobie Brothers song, so it’s a good warm-up pick to get everyone into the grove, the bug, and the groove. Lively, energetic, and just long enough to really warm the legs.
“Fire” by Jimi Hendrix: This Hendrix classic is ideal for sprints. The guitar solos and chorus sections are reasonably short breaks of four rapid sprints of roughly equal length.
“Do You Feel Like We Do” by Peter Frampton: The final “Can I get to the end of this song?” option. The straightforward marathon version can be used for a range of seated and standing climbs, flat roadworks, and anything else for that matter. Each one is 14 minutes long, so it’s definitely a challenge, but hey, who doesn’t love to sing along to Frampton and that mouth harp?
So, for a welcome break from pop and techno songs, ask your instructor to slip in one of these classic rock standards into your next indoor cycling class routine. You’ll be sure to feel young again!
