If you’re looking for a Spin class in Jamaica Plain, Mike’s Fitness JP has been running them for years, and Spin is the gym’s longest running class. One of the instructors behind that history is Jim West, who teaches Cycle to the Core on Tuesday nights and fills in on Saturday rides when he can. Jim has been teaching group fitness in Boston for more than 25 years, going back to Mike’s Gym in the South End.
We sat down with Jim to talk about his background, how Cycle to the Core works and what makes a great Spin class.
Spin classes at Mike’s Fitness JP
Before the interview, here’s what to know about Spin at the gym:
- Cycle to the Core with Jim: Tuesdays at 6 PM. A 60 minute ride that builds leg strength and core stability, with intervals, hills, jumps and sprints, followed by a cool down and guided stretch.
- Cycle Class with Lisa: Thursdays at 6 PM. Interval based indoor cycling with hill climbs, speed drills and resistance work. Suitable for all levels, since you control the intensity.
- Saturday rides when instructors are available.
Every group class is included with membership. Book in the Mike’s Fitness JP app or online, and check the class schedule for the latest times, since the schedule can change.
Interview with Jim West
Can you tell us about your fitness background and how you became a Spin instructor at Mike’s Fitness JP?
“I started teaching aerobics over 25 years ago in several different Boston health clubs and gyms. Like most teachers, I followed the fitness trends and attended teacher trainings for new types of classes. I went from teaching high impact aerobics to high low to Step and Slide before Spin classes.
“I started teaching Spin classes after attending both Reebok Cycle and Mad Dogg teacher training workshops in the late 90s. At that time I was teaching Step classes for Boston Athletic Club, Metropolitan and Mike’s Gym in the South End.
“After my first year teaching at Mike’s Gym, I ended up running the group fitness program at the South End location. After a few years at Mike’s Gym we added Spin classes to the program. When Mike’s Gym in the South End closed, I worked for Gold’s Gym until Omar opened Mike’s Fitness JP.”
What sets Cycle to the Core apart from other Spin classes in the area?
“Cycle to the Core encourages students to incorporate their core into the Spin workout to help stabilize them. After attending a Pilates mat teacher training workshop, a lightbulb went off in my head. I could apply the core strength training of Pilates to a Spin class. I started adding core to my cueing during class while teaching. It really changed the way people rode their bike during class.
“For most people, Spin class tends to be a lower body workout. As we know, core strength is an important component of our health and wellbeing. Our core plays a huge role in how we move, lift and perform activities in our everyday lives.”
How do you tailor the class to meet the needs of each rider?
“With any group exercise class, teachers should have modifications in mind to address specific needs. Asking questions prior to starting a class helps establish what you need to address during class. Direction for modifications to make the class or a certain move less or more intense is key.
“This makes students of every level, from beginner to advanced, able to get the full benefit from class. It’s all about offering options during the workout.”
Can you walk us through a typical Cycle to the Core class?
“I usually start with a warm up which includes most of the moves or elements I will cover in class. This includes cueing on what to do when, so riders can follow along with ease.
“Next, I move into a format that changes depending on the music I’m using for that class. I try to include hills, sprints, seated climbs and straightaways in each class. The order changes with the music.
“I use interval training to increase and decrease the intensity during class and provide recovery points. Finally, we end with a cool down and stretch.”
What do you think are the most important parts of a successful Spin class?
“The teacher needs to know how to modify movements and how to cue and direct students. As a teacher, you want people to understand what is happening when. The better your cues and directions are, the better the experience is for students. It’s all about the experience in class that makes students come back again and again.”
Tips for your first Spin class
- Get there 10 minutes early so the instructor can help set up your bike. Seat height should leave a slight bend in your knee at the bottom of each pedal stroke.
- Bring water and a small towel.
- Wear comfortable, breathable clothes. Padded shorts help if you’re new to the saddle.
- Go at your own pace. You control the resistance, so you can always ease off.
- Tell the instructor if it’s your first class or if you have an injury.
Why riders love Spin
Spin is a great low impact cardio workout that’s easy on the joints, builds leg strength and endurance and fits every level. The music and group energy make the time fly, and it’s a great way to stay fit indoors through a Boston winter.
Join a Spin class in Jamaica Plain
Mike’s Fitness JP is at 284 Amory Street in Jamaica Plain, a short walk from the Stony Brook stop on the Orange Line, with free parking. Every membership includes every group class, from Spin to Zumba, Muay Thai, Pilates and Yoga. Want to try it first? Grab a day pass, which includes group classes, or see all the options on the memberships page.
Come ride with Jim on a Tuesday night. Your legs and your core will feel it.
