Question for Educated Spinning Types

[Juice]

So I recently purchased a "Spinner Fit" spin bike. I bought it for rehab and crosstraining purposes, so I plan to use it at most 2 times per week. I am really looking forward to Cathe's new spin vid!

Here's my question: Do I really need to purchase bike shoes for my spin workouts? Since the whole point of purchasing a spin bike is to minimize my chances of injury, I certainly don't want to end up with a foot injury if I am spinning in the wrong shoes. On the other hand, I would rather not spend the money if I don't have to.

Thoughts?

TIA,
Juice

 

[L Sass]

Hi Juice. I assume your spin bike has both the cages and the clip pedals for spin/biking shoes? You'll be fine with tennies and the cages, but if you really want to amp it up, there's nothing like a good pair of biking shoes to clip into the bike. When you do that you're fully "connected to" the bike and can definitely "pull up" with greater energy and power than when relying on the top of your foot. HTH.

 

[hokypoky]

I really think your form changes with shoes with clips - you don't have to worry about compensating for your foot slipping out of the basket, and as LSass said, you get the benefit of the full rotation with the pushing and pulling motion. One good thing is (unlike athletic shoes) it's hard to wear them out .... I think I've had mine for 5 years. Before I walk into spin class, I double-check my 3 must-haves: water, heart rate monitor, and my shoes!

 

[NY25]

I don't think you need clips, but I definitely recommend biking shoes. Soft bottom shoes can actually cause numbness in your feet because of the flex of the soles. If your foot is in the pedal cage properly and you secure the strap properly, your foot isn't coming out. The hard soles of biking shoes make a huge difference in performance. For home use of a couple times a week, clips are overkill and not necessary.

 

[Juice]

Thank You

Everyone,

Thank you for your input. My bike has the cages. Since I would rather be safe than sorry, I will be picking up a pair of bike shoes.

Thanks again,

Juice