FlyWheel #NeverCoast [Review]

Are you guys tired of hearing me talk about Flywheel yet? I hope not. If so, I'm sincerely sorry but brace yourself because it's not slowing down... because I found a new addiction that almost outweighs my chocolate addiction so this is the real deal.

I honestly have never taken a fitness class. I had a gym membership for 2 years in college and never went to a single class... how sad is that? We've always had a home gym at my parent's house but the extent of the usage there was the treadmill. I'm a runner - I like trying to beat my time and distance and running outside or inside is what I really like to do because I need to feel tired and sweaty afterwards. I discovered Flywheel somehow and I was intrigued ever since. I heard it was intense, addicting, and you'll need a long rest afterwards. Boy is that true! Keep scrolling to read my breakdown.

The App
This class runs on the app. That is how you buy, browse, and reserve classes as well as collect your class statistics. You can even check in to your class via the app. I love that I can browse at any time to see how full the classes are, the different instructors and easily switch between bikes if I so desire. But the best part is that your class statistics are available immediately when your class finishes. It tells you your calories burned, miles biked, max speed, and so much more. It even ranks you in that particular class or across all classes. This is the biggest motivator for me to really kick butt. Yesterday I was only ONE point behind my personal best. I was so angry with myself! To beat my score, I would have only need to really push it hard for about 15-20 more seconds. But now I'm that more motivated to do better next time.

image via Facebook
The Class
Flywheel fits about 52 bikes in a room with plenty of space between you and the your neighbor and every bike has a clear view of the instructor because of the multi-level set up. I normally choose a bike in front of the instructor but in the 3rd or 4th row. The first time you go you won't know how to adjust your bike but they have a few techs who wander around the room helping out anyone who needs a hand. They are so friendly and helpful - it's one of my favorite parts of the experience. I love saying hi to them each time!

The class is 45 minutes total (they also offer a 60 minute class) and it is intense from beginning to end. You will feel like you want to leave 10 minutes in and you will also hate your instructor at least once throughout. The lights in the studio are turned out and the music is loud and very energizing. If I could, I would buy the soundtrack. Each instructor has different music so it's fun to find someone who suits your style. If you were worried about a total body workout, there's also an arms routine thrown in there near the end.

You have the option to be on the Torqboard which the instructor shows on a TV screen throughout the "sprints" that ranks you against your peers and shows the effort you're putting forth (Flywheel gives you a power point system). I personally haven't put my stats up there but it is a cool way to see where you're fitting in with the rest of the class.

p.s. Flywheel supplies the shoes and towels. All you need to bring is a bottle for water. I suggest wearing pants or capris and a tank. They have lockers with digital locks on them so no need to bring a lock!

The Overview
You need to try it at least twice. The first class is free so there's no excuse! Plus, it's nice to try out different instructors. I've been five times and had a different instructor each time which has allowed me to find my "favorites".

You will be tired. I almost left the first class halfway through because I felt like I couldn't handle it. But I pushed through and I'm not sure I've ever sweat more than I do during a session. I am t-i-r-e-d afterwards and it takes me a good amount of time to really cool down. That's how I know it's working! And it's worth it.

You will be motivated. It's not one of those classes where you feel like you have to over-perform to keep up with everyone else. However, depending on your personality, you can be self-motivated by your own class statistics or motivated by the rank against your classmates.

You will be happy afterwards. The high I get after a class is unlike anything I've felt after going for a run (besides running a 5K). I don't know if it's the immediate gratification of seeing my hardwork or if it's because I felt like I just got out of the most fun dance club in Buckhead and now I'm 700 calories lighter.

Sign up for your free Flywheel class today! You won't regret it. If you're in the Atlanta area and want to try out a class with me, let me know! I'm always up for a late night weekday class or early weekend class. :)