Last Updated on August 12, 2025 by Arun Leer

The latest UK-based research gives clear evidence that Spinning® can play a powerful role in supporting people with mild to moderate hip osteoarthritis (OA).

Mixed age and gender group of people dressed in gym clothing, standing next to spinning bikes.

This is a guest blog by Sarah Morelli, Senior Spinning® Master Instructor and Advanced Biomechanics Coach, with expert insight from Pru Comben, Spinning® Master Instructor and Clinical Exercise Specialist.

At Athleticum®, we know that movement is medicine—and now, the latest UK-based research gives clear evidence that Spinning® can play a powerful role in supporting people with mild to moderate hip osteoarthritis (OA).

The recently published CLEAT trial (Cycling Against Hip Pain), led by Bournemouth University and University Hospitals Dorset, is a landmark study. It found that structured indoor cycling, paired with education, can improve function, quality of life and pain levels in people living with hip OA—while being cost-effective and deliverable in community leisure settings.

“Spinning® has always been built on the principle that everybody can ride. From elite athletes to those just starting or recovering—our coaching approach is inclusive, intuitive, and accessible. This study affirms what we’ve long known: with the right support, instructors can help people with joint conditions like OA improve their function and feel more in control of their health.”

Sarah Morelli

Read on to discover the top 5 instructor tips, backed by the latest research, into adapting your classes for people suffering from hip osteoarthritis.

  • 1. Coach a Seated-Based Ride with Optional Standing

    The CLEAT study’s CHAIN intervention used seated indoor cycling as the core exercise—keeping the hips unloaded while still delivering the cardiovascular and muscular benefits of aerobic training.

    “The class should be taught predominantly in a seated position to avoid loading the hips,” says Pru. “Standing is optional but should only be used if it feels good for the individual.”

    Use seated flats, endurance drills, and low-resistance climbs as the backbone of your ride. Keep standing segments short, optional, and smooth.

  • 2. Nail the Bike Fit - It’s Non-Negotiable

    Bike setup is mission-critical. The wrong fit can aggravate symptoms or discourage participants from returning.

    – Saddle height: Ensure the leg has a slight bend (~25–35°) at the bottom of the stroke.
    – Fore–aft positioning: Adjust to limit hip flexion at the top of the pedal stroke.
    – Handlebar height: Prioritise comfort and upright posture.

    Proper setup not only protects joints—it builds trust and reduces anxiety in first-timers.

  • 3. Talk About Pain Management - Openly and Supportively

    “Riders should avoid intense pain,” says Pru. “Instructors should make it clear that mild discomfort is okay, but pushing through sharp pain is not.”

    The study noted that 81% of participants used pain relief medication, and education was a key part of the CHAIN programme. Instructors should feel confident reminding riders to manage pain appropriately, communicate openly, and rest when needed.

  • 4. Stay in Zone 2–3 and Use RPE to Guide Effort

    The CLEAT study referred repeatedly to aerobic exercise, with no evidence of anaerobic threshold crossing. Participants completed an 18-minute test using RPE (Rate of Perceived Exertion), suggesting it was the guiding intensity tool throughout.

    Target:
    – Zone 2 to low Zone 3 heart rate/intensity
    – RPE of 3–5 out of 10
    – Breathing is elevated, but speech is still possible

  • 5. Cadence: Keep it Personal and Within Range

    Pru advises allowing self-selected cadence between 60–110 RPM, within official Spinning® parameters.

    “Those with hip OA may struggle to maintain higher cadences due to pain-related inhibition. But too much resistance can also cause post-class pain. Letting them choose a comfortable pace within a safe range gives them control and confidence.”

Spinning®: Supporting Special Populations through Education

Spinning® instructors are already trained to tailor every ride to every body. But with this growing evidence base, we invite instructors to deepen their knowledge of special populations—including those with arthritis, pre/post-surgical needs, and chronic conditions.

Explore more via Athleticum & Spinning® in the UK. Once a Spinning® instructor you will have access to further CPD live and online learning workshops, like Special Populations.

Two rows of diverse people exercising on spin bikes.

Go Local: Work with Community Health Hubs

The CLEAT study was delivered in leisure centres, not clinics—highlighting the opportunity for instructors and studio owners to actively engage with community health initiatives, NHS referral programmes, and local arthritis support groups.

Tip: Connect with your local social prescribing teams, GP surgeries, or Active Partnerships to explore collaborations.

Recommended Resources for Instructors

– EMD UK “Reach Up” Resources Library
– Spinning® Instructor Certifications & CPDs – Athleticum
– CLEAT Study – Full Lancet Report

EMD UK is the only governing body dedicated solely to the group exercise community. Our members benefit from our guidance, CPD-accredited courses and over 250 resources. Pro membership with insurance starts from just £51 annually.

Join Today