Taking a workout class can stir up a range of emotions. Maybe you’re excited, perhaps you’re terrified, or you could fall somewhere in the middle. At Florida State University (FSU), indoor cycling (aka spinning) is all the rage. Getting to know the person behind the bike and the mic can relieve some stress leading up to a class, so here’s some information on what some of our instructors are all about.
Katie
Katie Weaves has been teaching spin at FSU longer than any other instructor. Her classes are full of energy and good vibes. One of the most incredible things about her classes is that they’re full of regulars—so basically, she has a fanbase here at FSU.
Why does Katie teach? “To show people that no matter where they are (or think they are) on their fitness journey, they are capable of more than they realize.”
Advice for new riders: “You might be sore after your first ride or two, but that will go away the more you ride.”
Motivation: “Everyone who has the discipline to wake up for my 7 a.m. classes motivates me to be my best at that early hour and give them an amazing ride!”
Favorite artists: J Balvin, Bad Bunny, The Weeknd and Jason Derulo
Schedule: Tuesdays/Thursdays at 7 a.m.
bella
Bella Dellagatta started teaching at FSU in the Fall of 2022 and has really made a name for herself. She teaches the most classes of any instructor and is always the first one to offer to sub for her coworkers. Something you can expect from her class is a good theme and a good workout!
Why does Bella teach? “I love being able to give people a safe space to work on themselves physically and mentally without interruption or pressure.”
Advice for new riders: “Ask for help and stay consistent!”
Motivation: “My health. Spinning has been my outlet and really helps my mental health.”
Favorite artists: Anything ’00s/’10s
Check out her Instagram to see her schedule and themes.
HECTOR
Hector Rodriguez is one of FSU’s newest instructors. His class will probably be the highlight of your day. He has everyone in the room singing and head-bopping along with the beat. Hector’s energy will make the class feel like a party on top of an intense workout.
Why does Hector teach? “It makes me happy to know that I can share the way spinning makes me feel with others.”
Advice for new riders: “Have fun and don’t be scared to ask for help!”
Motivation: “Seeing everyone in the class put in their best efforts motivates me to do better!”
Favorite artists: Megan Thee Stallion and Latin bops
Check out his Instagram account to see his schedule and themes.
Kathleen
Kathleen Greenman is also one of FSU’s newest instructors. She is extremely dedicated and used to religiously take spin classes before she became an instructor herself. Kathleen’s theme rides are always a hit!
Why does Kathleen teach? “Spinning is something I am passionate about and really enjoy doing.”
Advice for new riders: “Focus more on having fun than on your workout. Once you’re having fun, it’ll be much easier to push and motivate yourself.”
Motivation: “Improving my own skills and trying to make each class different and more engaging than the last.”
Favorite artists: Throwbacks like Rihanna, Justin Bieber and Katy Perry
Schedule: Mondays/Wednesdays/Fridays at 12:30 p.m.
amanda
Amanda Abarca (that’s me!) has been teaching spin at FSU since the Fall of 2021. She took spin classes nearly every day here until she got the confidence to become an instructor. Amanda loves a good theme ride and tries her best to make sure everyone knows that they belong in the room!
Why does Amanda teach? “Taking spin classes was something I enjoyed back home and helped me feel my best at FSU. I love being a source of energy for others and starting my morning with a workout.”
Advice for new riders: “Just show up! It’s scary trying something new but we’ve all been in that situation before.”
Motivation: “It honestly makes me emotional seeing people consistently show up and improve over time. Knowing that people allow me to be a part of their lives and trust me to guide them through their workout is my biggest motivation.”
Favorite artists: Taylor Swift and Kesha
Check out her Instagram account to see her schedule and themes.
Check FSU Campus Recreation’s website to stay up to date with all of the instructors and class schedules. Reach out to any of the instructors for information on registration, what to expect and how to prepare for class. You belong here!
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