Cyclists/Spinners (Experts) -- Question for you!

[HippoMommy]

Hello! I'm becoming ever more dedicated to my spinning classes (now going 3x per week). I've been reading on the WW website Fitness Challenge board that having cycle shoes with clips works your legs differently/better. So I'm getting ready to purchase some.

There's a fine sporting goods store in my community, and I'm planning to throw myself on their mercy.

The question: What can you tell me to make me an informed consumer? What do I need to know to make a wise purchase? Do you have any tips for me?

[vita77]

Cycling shoes with clips add benefit on both stationary and conventional bikes. They do this by giving you power on the upstroke. Without clipping in, you only get power on the downstroke. You work two different sets of muscles, rather than one set, when you have the clips.

First, check with your gym to see what kind of clips are installed on their bikes. There are several different kinds of clips, and they're not compatible with one another. The most common is called SPD (this is what the bikes at my gym have). So you'd need your shoes equipped with SPD-compatible cleats. Other clipping systems are called Speedplay or Look.

Next, go to any reputable local bike shop, and tell them you want a basic pair of shoes that's suitable for spinning classes. I'm fairly certain that any moderately priced pair of mountain bike shoes (rather than road bike shoes) will be fine.

I use my Specialized brand mountain bike shoes for spinning class. If memory serves, they cost around 60 bucks. Any brand sold by a reputable bike shop will probably be fine. Mountain bike shoes have a recessed cleat, so that the sole of the shoe is flat, and you can walk easily in the shoe. They also have a sole that's stiffer than a tennis shoe sole, but not as stiff as a road shoe sole.

Road shoes are probably overkill for spinning class. They usually have very stiff soles and non-recessed cleats for better performance, and they're often more expensive than mountain shoes. They're awkward to walk in because the cleats stick out of the bottom of the soles.

The bike shop will help you pick a shoe, and fit it correctly. Wear a light sock when you try them on. (Buy the shoes a bit roomy if you think you may also use them outside in colder weather, so you can add a heavier sock.) You may or may not choose a women's shoe - I have unisex mountain shoes but women's road shoes. Just try a bunch and see what feels best.

The shop will also install the correct cleats for you (SPD or other). The cleats will cost $10-15 over and above the price of the shoes. They'll position the cleats correctly in the shoe, right under the ball of your foot.

Once they've installed the cleats, put the shoes on, and ask them to teach you how to clip in & out. They'll put you on a bike in a trainer, so you won't risk falling over while you learn. It's pretty simple once you get the hang of it.

Good luck! Clipless pedalling changed my life (on my real bike), and it's helpful in spinning class as well. Give a shout if you need more info.

[HippoMommy]

Thank you, Kathy!!