Indoor Cycling Class Routines: Top Five Classic Rock Songs for Cycling Classes
Do you participate in indoor cycling or spinning classes? Are you over 35 or just a fan of classic rock? Here are five great classic rock songs that are perfect for your next class…
Indoor cycling classes, often called spin classes, are becoming increasingly popular group fitness options. Not only are they low-impact, they provide a great cardio workout in a fun and motivating environment.
Of course, music plays an important role in the level of enthusiasm. Chances are, if you like the songs, you’ll work harder and get more out of the class. Most instructors have a list of scheduled topics, but they always go along with suggestions. And if you’re not a fan of techno or hip hop music, you’ll be happy to know that there are several tried-and-true classic rock stalwarts that are perfect for an indoor cycling routine.
In no particular order, here’s our list of the top five classic rock songs for cycling classes:
“Crossroads” by Cream: The driving pace and brilliant musicianship of Ginger Baker, Jack Bruce, and Eric Clapton, collectively known as Cream, really kick this four-minute classic into overdrive. Clapton’s guitar solos at the 1:30 and 2:35 minute marks are great for “pushing forward”. “Crossroads” is a perfect choice for the middle section of the class when the effort level is peaking.
“Train Kept A’ Rolling” by Aerosmith: A punchy bass and a mid-tempo beat make this song a great option for climbing a hill sitting down. Catch the rhythm with a moderate resistance level and your heart rate is sure to keep moving.
“China Grove” by the Doobie Brothers: Everyone knows this Doobie Brothers song, so it’s a good warm-up option to get everyone into the grove, err, groove. Lively, energetic and long enough to really warm up your legs.
Jimi Hendrix’s “Fire”: This Hendrix classic is perfect for sprints. The guitar solos and chorus sections are reasonably short interludes for four roughly equal-length sprints.
“Do you feel like us?” by Peter Frampton: The last “Can I get to the end of this song?” choice. The live marathon version can be used for a mix of standing and sitting climbs, flat road work, and just about anything else. It’s 14 minutes long, so it’s a challenge for sure, but hey, who doesn’t love to sing along with Frampton and that mouth harp?
So for a welcome break from pop songs and techno, ask your instructor to include one of these classic rock standards in your next indoor cycling class routine. You will surely feel young again!