It’s February, you’re struggling to stay away from that extra side of fries at dinner and starting to lose that New Year’s Resolution motivation to work out. The option to give up and grab a bag of popcorn and seat on the couch with Netflix has never been shining brighter. What’s a girl to do?

Get your butt to the gym and join a spin class! Spinning is an energetic, athletic and fun way to stay in shape and want to work out! I discovered spinning two years ago when I got to the University of Connecticut and my workouts have never been the same. There are a hundred reasons why I would recommend spin to absolutely anyone but here are my top 5.

1. The Need to Sweat: Like to sweat? Who doesn’t. Nothing screams “great workout” like sweating out all the bad toxins in your body. Personally, if my shirt isn’t damp I don’t feel like I exercised adequately. Let me tell you, you will not face that problem in a 45 minute spin class. The constant movement and battling the resistance of the bike will have you begging your instructor to finally turn the fan on. Tip: definitely bring a towel and a lot of water!

2. The Calorie Burn: While I personally don’t prioritize monitoring my calorie intake, its still awesome to know that after 45 minutes I burned away 500 of my daily calories! Spinning is an upbeat exercise that is sure to get those heart rates up and calories down. So go ahead girl! Get that extra couple of fries with dinner! God knows you deserved it. Tip: Invest in a heart rate monitor! They are the only way to accurately measure your calorie burn and heart rate!

3. Perfect for Former Athletes: The hardest thing for a former high school athlete is to get to college and suddenly become a NARP. After my years of basketball, softball and soccer I faced a huge adjustment trying to find something to do daily with the same level of athleticism. Spinning filled this gap like nothing else could. Between the sweat and the burning muscles you’ll be feeling like that super star athlete again in no time! Tip: If you miss wearing cleats, invest in a pair of spin shoes! They help tremendously in assuring you get the work out you're looking for!

4. The Poppin’ Music: Any respectable spin instructor takes pride in setting up a great class for you every day! This includes creating the perfect playlist to keep you engaged and having fun. Being able to sing along to your favorite jams definitely makes the time pass, and if you're lucky they might even throw in some 2000’s throwbacks. And you know you love those. Tip: Check Spotify for spin class playlists! These songs are typically great for any workout!

5. The Booty Toning: The most well-known fact about spin class is that its killer for your glutes. While it takes some time to get used to working out on a bike seat, and dealing with that part of your body being sore as all hell the next day, you will thank me when you have that great butt you’ve always wanted. So get off your booty and give it a tone! Tip: Invest in a bike seat cover! There are a great way to stay comfortable during your workout!

So don’t be discouraged by the cold! Get out there and find new and exiting ways to mix up your workouts, whether it’s with spin, rowing or anything else! You got it girl!