Why did you start taking Spinning^® classes?

I was encouraged to try this new form of exercise and training, which was introduced into our gyms here about 15 years ago, when Johnny G. (a South African by birth) visited South Africa. After just a few classes I found the Spinning ^® program both challenging and fun.

What inspired you to become a Certified Spinning^® Instructor and then a Master Instructor?

Having ridden consistently with Elsa Storm for more than a decade, I decided that it was time to give something back to the Spinning community. I had previously been involved in training in team sports and knew that would keep me in good stead. In addition, there seemed to be a need for properly qualified instructors, so I took the plunge. I knew that riding would not be the same once I had moved from participant to instructor. By this I mean that being a participant allows a rider to focus on oneself; whereas being an instructor the focus becomes selflessness by being focused on each participant instead. Not too long after qualifying as an instructor, an opportunity arose to attend the Master Instructor training camp. It seemed like a natural progression for me, since it is not in my nature to do things by half measures. I saw as an opportunity to further educate myself, so that I could better enhance the enjoyment for those riding with me and, in the ultimate circle of life, train new instructors to keep the Spinning phenomenon growing.

What do you love about teaching Spinning^® classes?

There is no one good reason for loving teaching, but many. Each of them ultimately relate to what the riders experience and that usually means a profound change. Some people realize that it can be fun to train and that effective training is possible, no matter what condition they are in, when they begin. Others realize that through making small changes to their training, like acquiring a heart rate monitor, they can train more effectively and see even bigger changes. Others just beam with joy when they have finished riding.

What advice would you give to someone who is thinking about becoming a Certified Spinning^® Instructor?

Do the course today. Dive in head first and learn as much as possible, including attending as many Continuing Education workshops as possible. But, once you qualify, realize that you are as susceptible to burn-out as an over-trained participant. Be savvy and take on a manageable amount of teaching so that you can teach quality rides rather than just a quantity of them. Aim for longevity.

More about Anthony:

Anthony has been involved in sports all his life, as a both a player and a coach. He joined the Spinning® program in 1998 and has since been able to continue his passion for health and fitness by combining his love for the bike, the people and the music into his teaching. Anthony is a lawyer and has his own practice in South Africa.