Mini milestone: Spin class

During week 4 of the 12wbt, we do a mini milestone - something that we've not done before, that might make us a bit nervous with anticipation, a small achievement....  It is intended as something of a celebration for coming this far. 

The sort of celebration that does not include cake.  Or alcohol.  Or chocolate.

Originally, I wanted to run 5km for my mini milestone - but my knee is not going to allow that, so I decided to do a Spin class to mark week 4. 

For some reason I have been a bit nervous of doing a Spin class (which is a class done entirely on a bike, involving hills, sprints, and a lot of lung and legwork).  I thought it might hurt too much, if I'm honest, and I don't just mean having to sit for an extended time on those ridiculously uncomfortable bike saddles. 

I lined up this morning and found that the lovely Andy was the instructor.  Andy is always helpful and interested in what people are doing.  He'll walk past as you're straining in the gym with those last two reps of a heavy* weight - when your face is screwed up in contorted pain - and say cheerfully, "That's the face!  That's the look we want!" 

*heavy is a relative term

During this morning's class, he also came up with this gem - and I quote..."Outside our comfort zone" - as we wound up the resistance on the bike -  "outside the comfort zone, " - as we pedalled faster and faster* -  "is where the fun begins.  And by fun, I mean.... not really fun.  I mean pain."

*faster and faster is also a relative term 

Andy with his game face on

I was also lucky to meet up with Kellie going into the class.  Kellie is a member of the Warrnambool and Surrounds 12wbt Crew and, having successfully lost weight and become extremely fit on a previous 12wbt round, she is something of a role model to me....  I haven't told her that yet!  She's back this 12wbt round training for the half marathon, keeping fit and maintaining her weight.  Awesome.

So I was so glad to find her there and get some tips about how to survive the class.

Kellie making it look easy

And here I am, feeling pretty pleased with myself after finishing my mini milestone.  I thought my built in padding would help with the discomfort of the seat, but alas, it did not.  But I think I'll be doing more Spin classes anyway.... perhaps.