New Spin Instructor...and a new reason to take Advil

Today I tried a new spin class with a new instructor. In actuality, both the class and the instructor have been around for a while. And both have a reputation. For punishment. But I've heard great (albeit terrifying) things about Mike's class so decided to give it a try.

At 5:00pm sharp, in walked Mike--striking, fit, and clearly ready to make us work. The tattoos of scorpions and other sharp-looking things on his arm and leg should have been a warning. But optimistic that if nothing else, I would get a good workout, I remained on my bike instead of running for the whirlpool like every cell in my body wanted to do.

The class was BRUTAL. We climbed. And climbed. And climbed some more. And then, when I thought I couldn't add any more resistance without coming to a complete stop, he cranked it up some more. The music, and Mike's periodic "woo woos" are the only thing that got me through the 45 minutes.

At the end, I slid off the bike, mumbled a thanks and shuffled my way to the locker room. But despite the searing pain in my thighs and butt, I feel great! It was a tremendous workout, with a lively instructor and, should I ever need to ride my bike up a vertical cliff wall, I'll be ready!

Thanks to everyone for all the fun suggestions for new things to try. Below is an abbreviated hit parade of some of the more unique suggestions:
-Test drive a Ferrari
-Go on a guided bird walk
-Take a tandem skydive
-Try long-board surfing
-Light a fart on fire

During the work week the new activities will likely be somewhat less exotic but I'll try to make up for it on the weekends.
Until tomorrow...