Transportation Soldier instructs spin class

Courtesy Photo | Spc. Thomas Gil, a transportation movement coordinator with the 319th Transportation Company, 110th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, 224th Sustainment Brigade, 103rd Sustainment Command (Expeditionary), and a Tampa, Fla., native, leads soldiers in a spin class recently at Contingency Operating Base Adder, Iraq. (U.S. Army photo by 1st Lt. Ronnie Patrick)  

CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE ADDER, IRAQ

11.16.2010

Courtesy Story

224th Sustainment Brigade

By 1st Lt. Ronnie Patrick

CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE ADDER, Iraq - Spc. Thomas Gil, transportation movement coordinator with the 319th Transportation Company, 110th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, 224th Sustainment Brigade, 103rd Sustainment Command (Expeditionary), and a Tampa, Fla., native, leads soldiers in weekly spin classes at Contingency Operating Base Adder, Iraq.

Gil is known by the soldiers at COB Adder for his intense and exciting spin class workouts held at the House of Pain gym. So many soldiers enjoy the class that it is often filled an hour before class begins.

“You have to get to the gym an hour and a half before the class starts just to make sure you reserve a bike,” said Capt. Nancy Sison, commander of the 319th Trans Company, and a New Orleans native.

Spinning is an excellent alternative to running in terms of cardiovascular exercise. Because the class is held indoors, spin classes eliminate wind, dust, cold or rain, and soldiers can participate year-round. It also eliminates the worry of uneven terrain, low visibility, or traffic. The stationary bikes allow soldiers to adjust the tension to simulate hills, so even though they are not moving, they still receive the benefits of riding outdoors with a change in elevation. As a bonus, participants have the camaraderie of a group environment and an excellent instructor to keep them motivated.

“I try to keep the movement and change in dynamics constant, so you’re not getting used to just one movement,” said Gil.

Many soldiers have found the health benefits of spinning to be numerous. Spin classes are extremely effective in burning fat and calories. In a 60-minute spin class, participants can burn as many as 500 calories, while increasing cardiovascular fitness, stamina, and lower body strength.

“I work the class hard the entire time, focusing on cardio as well as upper body strength,” said Gil. “I think everyone should come out at least once. After one class, you usually get hooked.”

• Date Taken: 11.16.2010
• Date Posted: 11.29.2010 12:20
• Story ID: 61032
• Location: CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE ADDER, IQ