Spin With Purpose: The Ride According to Bill Buckton

When you step into the spin studio at Lakeshore Recreation on a Sunday morning, you can almost feel the hum of tires on pavement and the wind at your back. That’s because instructor Bill Buckton doesn’t just lead a spin class — he leads a ride.

“I try to make it feel like you’re biking outside,” he says with a grin. “We’re not just pedaling to music — we’re on an adventure down County Road 33, climbing the town line, and heading back home with purpose.” Bill’s style is unlike anything you’ll find on a Peloton screen. As he jokes, “I tell everybody I failed Peloton instructor school.”

His sessions aren’t about over-the-top hype or endless shouting. Instead, they’re about realism, rhythm, and results.

“My classes are all about real-world riding with purpose and enjoyment.”

The Real Road Experience — Indoors

Bill’s classes are designed to simulate the feel of being out on the open road. Riders learn to “peel a banana while biking,” use their “left hand to drink because the right hand’s your brake,” and visualize the rolling terrain of Bruce County.

Whether it’s a mountain climb ride or a Zone 2 endurance session, Bill gives each class a destination and a reason for every pedal stroke.

“We might climb Market Street, Elgin, or Mill. But don’t do Green Street between May 24 and Thanksgiving,” he laughs. “Too much traffic — and too many people gawking at the view!”

The atmosphere is both challenging and relaxed.

“The lights are dim, nobody knows what gear you’re in, and you’re your own person on your bike,” Bill explains. “Enjoy yourself, don’t hurt yourself, and make it fun so you’ll want to come back.”

A Natural Instructor with Endless Energy

Bill’s love of teaching extends far beyond the spin studio.

“I’m a natural instructor,” he says. “I just love informing people and helping them improve.”

From yoga to hockey, skating to cycling, Bill’s passion for physical activity is contagious. On most mornings, he’s already been to the rink before his spin class begins.

“I came from beginner hockey practice at 7:30 this morning,” he says casually. “Then straight here for spin at 9:30. I just love it. I love teaching people — and showing them that movement can be both fun and purposeful.”

He’s also quick to encourage his riders to branch out:

“I tell people, try Lisa’s Pilates class, try yoga. Tell the instructor you’re a beginner and learn a few basics. Then when you go back, you’ll feel confident.”

Music That Moves You

Bill’s playlists are legendary among his riders. He knows that the right beat can make or break a ride.

“You’ll hear everything from Lady Gaga and Justin Timberlake to Michael Jackson,” he says. “Those songs have the beat riders can connect to. But my personal favorites are Pink Floyd and Led Zeppelin — especially for Zone 2 rides.”

His music choices are deliberate.

“For Zone 2 and climbs, I like continuous tracks — no gaps, just smooth transitions. Sometimes it’s trance or dance music that keeps the rhythm steady. The beat never stops — and neither do we.”

Zone 2: The Sweet Spot for Every Rider

Bill is a huge advocate for Zone 2 training — steady-state cardio that keeps the heart rate around 70–80% of its maximum.

“It’s the number one fat-burning zone,” he explains. “All the pros train this way — 80% of their time is Zone 2.”

He’s quick to note that this method is especially effective — and safe — for older riders.

“You don’t want to be doing HIIT and end up on the couch for two days. Zone 2 lets you train every day, stay consistent, and build endurance without injury. Zone 2 isn’t flashy — it’s steady, smart, and effective. You build strength quietly, and that’s the beauty of it.”

In his classes, Bill often sprinkles in short bursts of intensity to mimic real-life situations:

“Sometimes I’ll say, ‘There’s a dog running out of the driveway — time to sprint!’ Then I’ll joke, ‘Oh, it’s just a chihuahua — we beat it anyway!’”

A Class for Everyone

Beginners are always welcome in Bill’s classes.

“If you’re brand new, you don’t even have to clip in,” he says. “I’ll help you get your bike set up, find your comfort zone, and ease into it.”

He often lends out padded seats and reminds people to bring water and towels. His message is simple: “Don’t be afraid. Just try it.”

And for those who need a little extra support? Bill offers one-on-one intro sessions.

“I’ll do a private spin with you — lights on, no pressure — just so you feel comfortable walking into class. Then, when you’re ready, come join the group. Why suffer alone? Bring a friend. The more, the merrier.”

Memorable Moments and Lasting Impact

When asked about memorable moments, Bill smiles.

“Once the power went out mid-class. I told everyone, ‘Just pretend you’re riding through a tunnel — there’s always a light at the end!’”

He’s also known for his friendly competitions — “boys vs. girls” rides complete with medals at the end. “The girls usually win,” he admits.

His humor and approachable teaching style have inspired many, including Lakeshore’s own Lisa Oberbichler, who credits Bill’s classes with helping her recover from a hip issue and fall in love with spin.

“That’s the best part of it,” he says proudly. “Seeing someone get stronger and more confident.”

Final Thoughts

Asked to describe his teaching style in three words, Bill doesn’t hesitate:

“Intense. With purpose. Enjoyable.”

And that sums him up perfectly. Whether it’s a heart-pumping mountain climb or a steady Zone 2 session, Bill brings a rare mix of expertise, encouragement, and humor to every class.