Many can relate to Nadine Stewart's story. A mother of three, she started off as a student in Spinning® classes to improve her health — she lost weight, reduce her stressed and now leads others to overcome obstacles and positively transform their lives.
We asked her to share her story and provide some insight for aspiring instructors on the value and meaning of being a Certified Spinning Instructor:
What inspired you to become a Certified Spinning® Instructor?
The positive transformation physically and mentally that took place in my life by being a participant in Spinning class, motivated me to want to help empower and change lives for others. I remember thinking to myself, "Who wouldn't want to be a Spinning Instructor?"
What do you love about teaching Spinning® classes?
Hands down it's the people I'm able to meet and the lives I'm able to touch because of our love for Spinning. I don't think there's ever been a workshop or a training where I didn't leave incredibly inspired by at least one person in the room. And I encourage every class to email me and stay in contact because I love, love, love to hear the impact they're having and the personal victories they're experiencing. We're all on a journey. It's very humbling to play a small part in helping people attain their goals and dreams. I feel incredibly fortunate to do what I do.
When I first started teaching I honestly was a nervous wreck. I spent hours agonizing over what profile and Energy Zone would be the best for those I anticipated being in class; the options I could give to those that needed more or less intensity, and of course what music would best suit the movements we were doing on the bike. However, even though I still think about these things, I've grown more confident as a coach and the process seems more natural. There's still an excitement and an energy I feel. It's just not nervous energy. Maybe it's the maturation process--I don't feel a need to prove anything- it's not about me, so I can just "be" and focus on everyone leaving class victorious.
What makes Spinning® a great workout?
I truly believe Spinning is for everyone. I started taking Spinning classes because I longed to do something positive for me. I had three kids in three and a half years, was overweight, out of shape, and didn't feel very good about myself. Being able to ride in a darkened room and at my fitness level (while being challenged) was liberating. I was so use to fitness classes that felt like Simon Says under horrible fluorescent lighting. You do what the instructor does and if you don't or can't, you're a loser. Or at least you can feel that way. I think I can relate to the masses. I'm not a road cyclist or mountain biker but I know how Spinning has changed my life and I desire that same success for everyone that takes my class.
What advice would you give others about becoming a Certified Spinning® Instructor?
Advice? I'd have a question. Why haven't you become a Certified Spinning Instructor yet?!?
In addition to being a member of the global Spinning Master Instructor Team, Nadine is a Aerobics and Fitness Association of America (AFFA) Personal Trainer, American Council on Exercise (ACE) Certified Group Fitness Instructor and Master Instructor for Bodyblade®, part of the Mad Dogg Athletics family of brands.
Spinning means life change. I started as just a member in a club. I was overweight. I had three kids in three and a half years. It was my sanctuary to be in the Spinning® room. I saw my body change and started to feel like anything was possible. VIDEO 
