Hopefully you’re like to me and you have realized the beauty of a great spinning class and get the importance of spinning shoes (indoor cycling shoes) to enhance your spinning routine. After trying pretty much every other aerobic type of workout known to man, indoor cycling finally got me started. Getting hooked on indoor cycling has kept me in the shape I’d like to stay. For me, spinning shoes sealed the deal.

Although, I thought spinning shoes were only for the expert spinners, I soon found out that spinning shoes are a nice addition to your spinning classes.

One thing I’ve realized while raising a hundred kids (ok, 4 kids) is that no matter what activity they are involved in, for some reason the shoes seal the deal. Once you get wrapped up in spinning, your spinning shoes are what give you that feeling that all the sudden you are serious about it.

Spinning classes are offered everywhere right now and for worthy reasons. Probably what really has made it so popular is the ability to lose the last 5 or 15 pounds that most thought were most difficult to lose. The targeted heart rates make this a reality. It is very easy to adjust your spinning cycle to match the heart rate your instructor tells you is ideal for your routine.

The good things about having spinning shoes are the same as they are for the benefits you get with regular cycling shoes on a bicycle.

• Cycling is meant to not only use a downward push on the pedal, but an upward pulling force too. Clip-in spinning shoes allow this motion. For spinning, this uses muscles you would not usually use without the upstroke. More muscles used means more weight lose due to more calories burned.
  • Even though the spinning cycle is stationary, there are safety concerns with having feet slip off pedals. Most of these concerns are increased when standing up on the spinning cycle. Clip in spinning shoes securely fasten your feet to the pedals ensuring no torn muscles, bruised shins, and various other pedaling problems.
  • Spinning shoes are built with a stiff layer near the balls of your feet to allow the most power from your legs to reach the pedals.

I was oblivious to the fact that there is a difference between cleats (the part that clips in) from one spinning shoe to the next. But, you’ll realize that the majority of spinning bikes have pedals that are made for for the "Shimano SPD" clip-in mechanism. The majority of spinning shoes you’ll see are made for the Shimano SPD clip. Many shoes even say so right on the outside of the shoe.

Spinning classes are generally conducted in a workout club and along with some other form of workout routine. I have found that the spinning shoes with a regular looking rubber sole also work as great shoes for using weight machines and other equipment throughout the club. You won’t want to run on and eliptical with spinning shoes because of the rigid toe. But, do yourself a favor, and find a pair with rubber soles and with recessed cleats. You’ll be happy you did. You can walk on tile and all types of flooring due to the clips on your shoes being slightly recessed.

There is nothing like the feeling of getting in to a workout routine that works for you, is enjoyable, and keeps you going back. Spinning class is that for many people. Remember, spinning shoes are not only for the advanced spinner. They are a great addition to your spinning class at any level.