Rockcastle Physician Finds Strength and Success Through Spin Class

For Dr. Angela Isaacs, a family medicine physician at Rockcastle Regional, what began as a casual attempt to try something new turned into a transformative part of her wellness journey.

“When I first started spin class, I honestly didn’t think it would be something that I would stick with,” she admitted. “I figured it would be something I could easily talk myself out of going to, over the smallest excuse. However, that has been far from the case.”

Instead of excuses, Dr. Isaacs found motivation, endurance, and community within the walls of Rockcastle Regional’s Wellness Center. “I am now annoyed if I have to miss a class. It has become a healthy habit. It helps that the class is small and close-knit. People notice when you’re not there, and that accountability keeps you coming back.”

Dr. Isaacs began her weight loss journey more than a year ago. Like many, she eventually hit a plateau – until spin class reignited her momentum. “Once I started spinning twice a week, I noticed a real increase in my weight loss and in my endurance,” she said. “Things that used to make me tired no longer do.”

That renewed stamina came in handy recently during a family trip to Disney World. “Five long days in the parks, 20,000-plus steps per day – I had the endurance to last all day,” she said. “I believe this was, in part, due to my dedication to spin class (and a good pair of Hokas).”

Far from being monotonous, Dr. Isaacs describes spin class as energizing and engaging. “It’s more than just pedaling. There are often new routines or moves, and it involves listening to music and keeping up with the beat, which makes it much less boring.”

Amid a packed summer of ballet, gymnastics, swim, and soccer classes for her daughters, Dr. Isaacs is grateful to carve out time for herself. “It’s nice to also make time for myself by attending a class like spin.”

Dr. Isaacs is also a strong advocate for the health benefits of consistent physical activity. Citing American Heart Association guidelines, she emphasizes the importance of adults getting 150-300 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise, or 75 minutes of vigorous activity per week. “Spinning has components of both – it’s mostly moderate intensity, but there are definitely moments of vigorous exertion.”

Beyond weight loss, regular exercise like spinning helps reduce the risk of heart disease and diabetes, improves sleep, supports mental well-being, and enhances overall quality of life.

For Dr. Isaacs, the journey is more than numbers on a scale. It’s about building strength, prioritizing health, and creating a lifestyle that’s sustainable – and even fun!

Dr. Isaacs participates in Spin Class with Jana, which meets on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, at 4:15pm for an hour-long class, with an additional 30-minute class held at noon on Fridays. There is also another spin class with instructor Kylee Fain, which incorporates kettlebell exercises within the workout. These classes meet on Mondays and Wednesdays at 5:30pm for an hour workout.

For additional information on these class offerings, visit our Wellness Center page.