Spin class, without the class
September 13, 2016 10:58 AM Subscribe
I enjoy spin class but want to be able to bike on my own at the gym. Are there any cycling apps (iOS) out there that provide audio cues? With or without music, with or without tracking. Maybe it's a podcast or YouTube series instead?
I haven't tried it yet, but Skyfit offers this (it does cost a monthly fee).
posted by wsquared at 11:11 AM on September 13, 2016
posted by wsquared at 11:11 AM on September 13, 2016
I use and enjoy Skyfit.
posted by netsirk at 11:28 AM on September 13, 2016 [1 favorite]
posted by netsirk at 11:28 AM on September 13, 2016 [1 favorite]
There are tons of classes on YouTube - just search for spin class. I generally prefer to roll my own workout with a favorite playlist but these are nice now and then. I just listen to the audio, I don't watch the video.
posted by beyond_pink at 11:48 AM on September 13, 2016
posted by beyond_pink at 11:48 AM on September 13, 2016
Sufferfest is what we use mostly.
I also like to use Cardio Coach which you can use for any cardio workout. I'm not sure if they are still available for sale, but I've had those in my running mix for years.
posted by 26.2 at 11:56 AM on September 13, 2016
I also like to use Cardio Coach which you can use for any cardio workout. I'm not sure if they are still available for sale, but I've had those in my running mix for years.
posted by 26.2 at 11:56 AM on September 13, 2016
Response by poster: Can you guys expand on what it is you like about the programs you've recommended?
posted by kidsleepy at 1:09 PM on September 13, 2016
posted by kidsleepy at 1:09 PM on September 13, 2016
Came here to say The Sufferfest as well.
There are audio cues (starting pistol, revving engine, squealing brakes, lap bell, ...) that make you look at the screen when it is time to change intensity, stand or other change of interval.
There is music (mostly unknown bands but generally good) and there is tracking in the app.
The app is rather well made, including an offline mode, it does have a monthly fee (10$USD/month, 7 day free trial). It tracks your workouts, can connect to sensors if your device supports it and can share to Strava and others.
You can also still purchase and download some of their DRM-free videos for now (~10-14$USD each) but they are going with the app/subscription model exclusively in October.
What I like the most is that while they are very intense and effective workouts, they still have a sense of humor and can make you smile.
posted by TinTitan at 1:10 PM on September 13, 2016 [1 favorite]
There are audio cues (starting pistol, revving engine, squealing brakes, lap bell, ...) that make you look at the screen when it is time to change intensity, stand or other change of interval.
There is music (mostly unknown bands but generally good) and there is tracking in the app.
The app is rather well made, including an offline mode, it does have a monthly fee (10$USD/month, 7 day free trial). It tracks your workouts, can connect to sensors if your device supports it and can share to Strava and others.
You can also still purchase and download some of their DRM-free videos for now (~10-14$USD each) but they are going with the app/subscription model exclusively in October.
What I like the most is that while they are very intense and effective workouts, they still have a sense of humor and can make you smile.
posted by TinTitan at 1:10 PM on September 13, 2016 [1 favorite]
To expand on the Sufferfest videos: They can have you being chased by a T-Rex as motivation in one video then they will chide you for being passed by a flower-carrying rickshaw in another. Most have a narrative thread, featuring you as the rookie, the local hero or the has-been looking for new contract. You can choose many different categories (speed, climbing, race, endurance...) and they range in duration from 20 minutes to 2 hours but most are in the 35-55min range.
Revolver is the best way to pulverize your legs in 30 minutes, The Hunted has a "great" finish and Power Station is currently my favorite climbing video.
posted by TinTitan at 1:44 PM on September 13, 2016 [3 favorites]
Revolver is the best way to pulverize your legs in 30 minutes, The Hunted has a "great" finish and Power Station is currently my favorite climbing video.
posted by TinTitan at 1:44 PM on September 13, 2016 [3 favorites]
Peloton (free trial) is great; I have the bike at home but the iOS app should do absolutely fine on any bike. There is a huge library of on demand rides, plus if you're riding at the same time as a live class (from the studio in Chelsea) you can join streaming. Lots of different kinds of rides, different instructors, different music, different lengths, etc etc. The instructors call out everything so you shouldn't need to watch if you don't want to.
Caveats: The instructions are going to expect that you have a bike where you can adjust the resistance and know your cadence and output in watts. You'd be able to do without, but it might not be as much fun.
posted by true at 6:39 PM on September 13, 2016
Caveats: The instructions are going to expect that you have a bike where you can adjust the resistance and know your cadence and output in watts. You'd be able to do without, but it might not be as much fun.
posted by true at 6:39 PM on September 13, 2016
What I like about Sufferfest is its sheer goofiness. Unlike actual rides where you have balancing, obstacles, vistas and ride buddies, a solo jaunt on the spinner is as boring as watching paint dry. Sufferfest adds an element of variety and makes you pay attention, but it's not overly serious about it. The ride goes faster.
What I like about Cardio Coach is that he knows when to shut up. He cues you, tells you how long the blast will be, then he lets you get to it without nagging you. At the end of a long blast, he usually comes on to keep you focused until the end. If you've ever suffered through a class with an instructor the Could Not Stop Talking, then Cardio Coach is a welcome respite.
posted by 26.2 at 6:19 PM on September 14, 2016
What I like about Cardio Coach is that he knows when to shut up. He cues you, tells you how long the blast will be, then he lets you get to it without nagging you. At the end of a long blast, he usually comes on to keep you focused until the end. If you've ever suffered through a class with an instructor the Could Not Stop Talking, then Cardio Coach is a welcome respite.
posted by 26.2 at 6:19 PM on September 14, 2016
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posted by xueexueg at 11:03 AM on September 13, 2016