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I’m going to share something possibly blasphemous with you here, especially considering how much I enjoy the experience of the Tour de Fleece: unlike some people, I’m not much into watching the actual Tour de France race itself. I suspect I’m not alone in this.
Having just bought a streaming device for my big TV, I’m ready to offer some alternative viewing options for longer spinning circuits. So what to watch or listen to, if not the Tour de France?
Nearly the perfect seating arrangement for making the most of my viewing pleasure. Photo by Deborah Held
What to Watch for the Tour de Fleece
1. Online Ed
Is there a specialized online class or a course you’ve been meaning to review or finally watch for the first time? (I don’t know what that’s like . . .) Here’s the ideal opportunity. It doesn’t even have to be a course related to spinning—though Maggie Casey’s newest course, The Spinning Teacher, is available now and free. Pull up a wheel or a spindle, and do it.
2. Spinning movie classics
I love re-watching my library of spinning and weaving videos from teachers such as Judith MacKenzie, Jillian Moreno, Kate Larson, and more. Many of us are unable to attend their classes in real life, but these downloadable videos (and DVDs) really are the next best thing. It’s like having a spinning great in your own living room.
3. What’s in the queue?
I keep a digital list of all the movies, documentaries, and series I’d like to watch (on Hulu, Amazon Prime, and Netflix, mostly). When I finish one, I feel not only a sense of accomplishment in both my spinning and my to-do list, but also more well rounded as a person.
4. YouTube
Not everyone has a streaming device or subscribes to streaming membership services. YouTube is free to stream from any PC, smartphone, or tablet. There are hundreds (maybe thousands) of crafting channels, videocasts (a video podcast). With a bit of sleuthing, you may also land on some engaging (free) series, of all genres and locales. Subscribe to your favorites or make an extra-long playlist to keep you company for days.
5. Audiobooks
When feeling anxious or over-stimulated, I turn off the TV entirely and listen an audiobook, an (audio) podcast, or some Zen music while I’m spinning.
I hope this list of alternative Tour de Fleece viewing (and listening!) ideas takes you and your own spinning to a new terrain. We’re already one-third of the way to the finish!
DEBBIE HELD is a freelance business journalist who chose full-time spinsterhood after an extended illness. She lives in the Atlanta area with her wool and wheels, where she’s usually spinning and working on her next crafting article. She may be reached via her website, www.debbieheld.com.