One Year on the Podium: What I’ve Learned as a New Spin Instructor

It’s hard to believe that it’s been a year since I completed my indoor cycling training. This journey has been unlike anything I anticipated. At first, I thought I would quickly excel as a spin instructor—fall into an easy groove where the harder I worked and the more energy I brought to the room, the more riders would flock to my classes. Well… I’ve definitely learned that isn’t how real life works.

Teaching fitness was a completely new challenge for me—one that made me uncomfortable yet excited. During my audition at the studio where I now teach, I was surrounded by supportive friends and family. The energy was electrifying. Despite my nerves, I found my rhythm and felt an instant sense of belonging. The crowd was hyped, the room was hot, people were hooting and hollering, and I left that audition with praise from every person who walked out the spin room doors. THAT audition felt like everything I imagined teaching spin would be. I made myself believe that every class I taught would feel that incredible.

But the reality of being a spin instructor was very different from my expectations. After subbing several classes, I often felt like a fish out of water. I wasn’t getting the same response from clients that I experienced during my audition. On top of that, I knew participants were taking a chance on me—a new face they didn’t know. In an effort to impress, I threw in lots of choreography, high-energy music, and over-the-top enthusiasm. Soon, I realized that this wasn’t sustainable… and more importantly, it wasn’t authentic to me.

Feedback from fellow instructors helped me shift my perspective: not every instructor resonates with every rider. That was tough to accept at first. When I finally secured a regular class, attendance continued to fluctuate. I questioned everything—was my class too hard, too easy? My colleagues encouraged me to simplify and focus on creating a more inclusive environment. I realized that what feels “challenging” to me, as someone with years of fitness experience, might be overwhelming for a beginner. If it’s hard for me, it’s probably way too difficult for most clients.

This realization changed how I planned. Simplifying choreography gave me freedom to focus more on the music, the vibe, and the connection with my riders. I felt less distracted by counting beats or cueing every move. Attendance still varies, but I’m learning that numbers aren’t everything. Authenticity and exposure are what matter most. I’ve started subbing more during peak times to gain experience and build a following.

One of my favorite parts of teaching now is weaving in a short, meaningful message at the start of class—something about hope, friendship, or perseverance—paired with a song that drives the theme home. Sometimes I worry it might feel “weird,” but then I remember how impactful those moments were when I was a client. That’s why I keep leaning into it. Spin is more than a workout—it can be a place for deeper connection.

Despite the challenges, I’m committed to staying true to myself as an instructor. My goal is to create a space where every rider feels motivated and supported, whether there are five people in the room or fifty. I’ve learned that my role isn’t about entertaining a packed class or being the center of attention—it’s about guiding whoever shows up to push themselves and grow.

This first year has been a whirlwind of learning, humbling moments, and growth. I’ve had to check my ego, but in the process, I’ve gained confidence and authenticity. The friendships I’ve formed and the community I’ve found through indoor cycling have been life-changing. With the encouragement of my colleagues, I’ve realized that my struggles are not unique—they’re part of the journey every new instructor faces.

As I continue on this path, I’m excited to keep finding my rhythm on the podium, to build meaningful connections, and maybe—just maybe—to feel that full-room energy again.