Newbie here - Plus-Size gal with severe fear of lycra

[effulgent]

I'm a very new, very out-of-shape rider. I say out of shape rider, but truth be told I haven't ridden a bike since college, and that was just for commuting around campus. I've never really been in shape, and I'm a pretty big gal.

My husband was an avid bike rider before we met, and was actually a bike mechanic for 5 years. This year, he decided he wanted to get back into cycling, and started riding on the weekends. I said I'd like to try riding too, and he said he had an extra bike that he could fix so that it would fit me well. So we went and got some goodies for it, and a helmet for me, and off I was.

Other than helmet and gloves, I don't have any bike-specific clothing. I've been wearing some capri-length leggings and a big ol' T-shirt which covers my tummy and tush but gets snagged on the nose of the seat when I try to get up on the bike.

I'm still on the VERY beginning stages of riding a bike, but I know that I'll be much more comfortable during my rides if I invest in some plus-size riding gear from Team Estrogen. But I'm scared to death of being seen in public in such tight fitting clothes. I *do not* have the figure for it and won't for many many many pounds.

So here are my questions:

1) Did any of you have to get over your fear of lycra?
2) Did any of you start out as a Big Girl when riding a bike, and what kind of provisions did you make to make sure that your training went well and that you were comfortable?

[Rhonda]

I can totally relate to your fear of lycra, I started out by wearing the baggy shorts, I guess they are made more for mountain bikers but I felt a lot more comfortable in those in the beginning. They also have underliner shorts and bike briefs you might want to look at. I have never worn a bike jersey, just a t-shirt, I hope to get a sleeveless one for the summer (one of the less form fitting ones). My husband bought me a very nice pair of lycra shorts for Christmas, they are a much better quality than the baggy ones I was wearing so I have switched to those now that I'm putting in more miles on the road.

I have been to several group rides and you see every shape and size wearing lycra, that being said I still feel self conscious in the lycra shorts but my bun is much happier at the end of the ride.

[CorsairMac]

They do make baggie shorts usually with Lycra inside the shorts. I know several of the women here wear them. They also make skorts, some that go over the shorts, some that come with the shorts built in. That way you would be in a short/skirt combo.
http://www.teamestrogen.com/products.asp?pID=9253

Good on you for biking and yeeehaa on the weight loss! What a sense of accomplishment you must feel. Keep up the good work!!

if you get a chance; there is a thread under the open titled "getting to know you". It'll tell you something about us and - if you're so inclined - tell us something about you!!

Keep in biking, Life does NOT get any better than that! ;)

[Veronica]

I think you'd have to be a small person inside to think poorly of someone who is trying to change their life around. Anytime I see anyone who is not the "usual" biker, runner, swimmer etc. mold out doing something, I think, "Wow! good for them!" It takes a lot of guts and determination to make exercise a regular thing when you've gone a long time without it.

You wear whatever you are comfortable in. And thumb your nose at anyone who thinks that's not okay.

V.

[singletrackmind]

How about baggy shorts, like the ones some mountain bikers wear? Or skorts? I don't have any experience with which hang up and which don't but maybe that's an option? I used to ride around in plain old denim shorts and a tank and that was ok but I've found having a chamois is a good thing. :D I prefer the lycra shorts now that I'm used to them. I also enjoy the wicking and quick drying action of cycling jerseys and bras though I could easily live without those. Ok, sport bras are ESSENTIAL!!!!

As for answers to your questions:
1) Did any of you have to get over your fear of lycra?
Yes. I confess I'm in a decent BMI range but I have a TERRIBLE body image. I was so busy getting over the diaper feeling of the chamois that I forgot to worry about the rest. I just wear one of my larger, longer jerseys on my "fat" days to cover my hips and belly. The older I get the less I worry about what other people think about my body. I've come to realize most of us have hang-ups and that what we don't like about ourselves is magnified to us but others could care less and would tend to see our good stuff, which we all have lots of if we'd just be brave enough to look for it.
2) Did any of you start out as a Big Girl when riding a bike, and what kind of provisions did you make to make sure that your training went well and that you were comfortable?
See #1.

This is getting kind of long...
Well, have fun and remember that lots of us started as out of shape riders, you aren't alone in that by far and you aren't alone in your worries. Also remember you are out riding for you, let others think what they want (though I think you'd find they aren't thinking about you negatively unless you've been mean to them). :)

[Asphaltgirl]

I feel "thinner" when I'm in my biking clothes and I figure, at my age, nobody is looking anyway!! :eek:

Go for the fun clothes-get crazy colored tops/T's and fun, wild socks. Trust me, 99% of the time the other riders are looking at your bike before they are looking at your butt! But, at least, get a pair of good biking shorts-they really will make a big difference in your comfort level, you can then cover them up with a long T or shorts. The most important thing is that you are out there biking and having a good time. I admire your commitment.

Asphalt (yes, all in purple!!) girl

[SadieKate]

You know what my first thought is when I see someone like you? It is "you go, girl!" Good for you for getting out there enjoying the ride, your hubby's company and the wind in your hair. Don't worry about what others think because it is not important.

I can't believe what this society does to women and their self-esteem. I have always had a body image problem because Twiggy was popular during my adolescence and I've never had a Twiggy body. It's ridiculous the misery that many of us go through because parts of us jiggle just like nature intended (I know this because Covert Bailey said so :) ).

If you have a particular pair of lycra bike shorts you really like and want a bit of coverage, you can buy the wrapper skirt only from Terry but you must use good bike shorts or your bike fun will be severaly curtailed.

Soon, you're going to be feeling strong and those endorphins are going to have you on a high. Go ride and have fun!

[anaphase]

Just fly right by 'em. You're going to be too fast for anyone to notice. :D

I've seen some ladies in those skorts and they are cute. Also the baggier biking shorts with lyrca underneath.

Check out VJ's site and maybe shoot her an email. She is an avid biker and a bigger gal. She's got a great blog and is really inspiring.
http://www.braveathena.com/

Congratulations on your new sport, too, BTW. And welcome to the board.

[Pedal Wench]

I used to have a HUGE fear of lycra. And bike jerseys. Hated them both. My boyfriend loves to tease me about that considering my short and jersey collections have become quite large. Once you start realizing that they are really the proper tool for the job, you'll feel more comfortable. Someone else mentioned that they act like a girdle - so true. I mean, really, fitting tightly, they're going to give you a slimmer profile than baggy clothes. Again, who cares what anyone else thinks? They really make biking more comfortable, which means you'll stick to it. I started out with a pair of baggy mountainbike shorts, but the extra material wasn't very comfortable.

All that being said, wear whatever you can to make sure you stay riding. If you're comfy riding in your bathrobe, then go for it. Just ride...

[effulgent]

Thanks for all of your wonderful words and support (and advice!). And I do agree with you, Asphalt, bikers look at the bike before the cyclist. We've gotten in a few near-wrecks because my husband is weaving through traffic to get a look at the bikes on someone's trunk rack.

My husband seems to be excited that I'm riding with him, even though I'm WAAAAAY slower than him. For now.

I do think I'll just skip the baggy shorts and go for just some basic bike shorts, or maybe the capri length. Those might make me feel a touch more modest.

And I think I'll get the lava jersey to start. :D That's about as obnoxious as one can get with the plus sized, I think.

[bikerchick68]

effulgent... when my brother started riding 3 yrs ago he was considering gastric bypass surgery and weighed 458 lbs... there was no bike clothing that fit him... and his bike had to be custom built with tandem parts. Strong enough to hold the weight of 2 people...

last week he weighed in at 271 lbs!!!!!!! Everything fits, he loves riding and his reward for all his efforts was a new bike...

you've had some great feedback about the lycra issue (who DOES look good in this stuff anyway???) but just wanted to share his story too, as it so darned inspirational... here is a link to his pics... I've posted this before but not sure you saw it... he is "bigkahunadad" so scroll down...

http://forums.mtbr.com/showthread.php?t=97174

[bikerHen]

Finally a question I can respond to! Being a plus size gal myself, I totally relate to the lycra problem. Last year, I rode in stretch demin shorts and baggy cotton tops. That worked well for me. The problem was, and still is, there is nothing delicate about me when I ride and I sweat like crazy! This spring my sweat soaked clothing gets really cold when I stop. I was dreaming of wicking clothing. So, I ordered a pair of plus size lycra shorts to wear with my baggy tops. The shorts worked well but only a plus size gal knows the true fear of cycling jerseys. To my surprise I found a LBS that carried a few plus size tops. They "wick" yea! :) and they were NOT fitted. They only had short sleeve tops and I'm a sleeveless kinda gal so I went home and sunk my business profits into ordering a couple of sleeveless tops online. I can't wait until they arrive. I'm still a little leary about wrapping my fat bod in such bright colors but what the heck! At least I'm out there doing something about it. :D Besides, with my new road bike, I'm just a flash anyway! bikerHen

[Jones]

Good on you effulgent for getting out there and riding! Last year when I was 35 pounds heavier, my favorite riding apparel was my Terry plus sized bike skort. They come in lots of cool colors with complimentery jerseys and matching socks. The chamois is the same as in their "t-shorts." I found it very comfy even on long rides and I felt far more confident with more coverage than just shorts offered me. Once I got to be a better rider and could go further and faster, heavy or not, I sort of felt I earned my right to wear lycra and the only people who would think bad of me, were the people who aren't getting outside and excersising anyway.


Jones

[CorsairMac]

I do think I'll just skip the baggy shorts and go for just some basic bike shorts, or maybe the capri length. Those might make me feel a touch more modest.

And I think I'll get the lava jersey to start. :D That's about as obnoxious as one can get with the plus sized, I think.

You could also try the basic bike shorts and knee warmers. That way when it gets hot or as you feel more comfortable in the shorts, you can take the knee warmers off.


(PS asphaltgirl, I Loved your signature line!! had me ROFL)

[MomOnBike]

I, too, don't have any desire to wear the kind of more-than-skin-tight clothes I got away with in my misspent youth.

That, and most of even the really large women's stuff doesn't have a chance at getting around my belly and hips. Bleh.

The good news is that I ride a recumbent and don't really need padding and all that. When I ride my upright (a grand total of 17 miles this year), I don't worry much about it.

HOWEVER, Rivendel has some bike, um, underwear called Andiamos ( http://rivendellbicycles.com/webalog/clothing/22301.html ) that fit if I get the men's really big. There is a light pad. You could try those with regular shorts. Just watch out for nasty seams in just the wrong place. :eek:

If you are still losing weight, and are trying not to spend too too much money on clothes you'll outshrink, this could be an option for you.

[Irulan]

effulgent... when my brother started riding 3 yrs ago he was considering gastric bypass surgery and weighed 458 lbs... there was no bike clothing that fit him... and his bike had to be custom built with tandem parts. Strong enough to hold the weight of 2 people...

last week he weighed in at 271 lbs!!!!!!! Everything fits, he loves riding and his reward for all his efforts was a new bike...

you've had some great feedback about the lycra issue (who DOES look good in this stuff anyway???) but just wanted to share his story too, as it so darned inspirational... here is a link to his pics... I've posted this before but not sure you saw it... he is "bigkahunadad" so scroll down...

http://forums.mtbr.com/showthread.php?t=97174

I've been following that thread, hat's off to this guy!

[KSH]

I am not a large women (not bragging, just saying that you don't have to be large to look bad in or hate Lycra)... but I HATE LYCRA! Seriously.

These biker shorts have a great way of pushing all the fat down... and making ones cellulite look worse than it is!

It has taken me awhile to get use to being seen in public is something that makes my butt look so long and droppy.... with all my cellulite squished together.

But, I finally just figured that I had to wear them... and if someone doesn't like how I look... then they just don't have to look. I have a reason for wearing what I am wearing.

And... don't worry that you are a large woman wearing lycra. Honestly, I have noticed that cyclists come in all shapes and sizes... and you are doing something that will help you slim down!


Uuuugggghhhh... my next problem is buying a tri suit. I really dread the thought of having to wear a skin tight suit with my saddlebags on display. But, it must be done.

[Pedal Wench]

You know, now that you mention it, I think that there are two distinctly different types of shorts. I used to have pairs that were real thin material. They did show every lump and bump. Now, I wear the really heavy-duty lycra, like the Performance Ultras, and they tend to smooth things out and hold everything in. You might want to look for shorts with the heavier, thicker material.

[SadieKate]

You might want to look for shorts with the heavier, thicker material.Black Bottoms and Descente

[effulgent]

Pretty much my choice of wardrobe is limited to the TE Plus specialty store. I haven't found anywhere else on the web that sells plus size biking gear (think the higher end of Lane Bryant/ Avenue, not the large end of the Gap).

So I have the shorts, the longer capri-legth, the mountain shorts or the skort that I can buy from TE. Not a whole lot of options. But, trust me when I say this, I'm just happy as hell to find options at all. Last year when we were going to the gym for a while (free Bally membership for a month from Discovery channel), I barely found one pair of pants that was appropriate for gym wear that were my size, and NO shorts at all. All the shorts were dressier or too long or too stiff of a material to wear on a treadmill or an elliptical machine. And no t-shirts that went with the legging-style pants - I ended up going to a Big & Tall Men's shop to get a shirt that was big enough to cover my butt over those leggings. And I never did find a sports bra either.

They tell women who are overweight to get out and exercise, and then they don't make any clothes that will fit women who are overweight and want to go to a gym. How are we supposed to lose weight if we can't even find a pair of shorts to go walking or cycling in? I would love to have wicking fabric t-shirts and shorts that I could wear rollerblading or walking or going to the gym here in my apartment. Instead I have my one pair of scary legging pants and two t-shirts.

At any rate, I hand washed the pants tonight, and I'm going to wear a slightly smaller t-shirt tomorrow when I ride and people are just going to have to deal with the reality of my @$$ in those stretchy pants. (sigh) And I've got it in the budget next month for me to get a pair of biking shorts and a jersey, and for my husband to get a new jersey too. He used to be smaller and has half a dozen jerseys that are too small, and only one that fits him.

[bikerHen]

At any rate, I hand washed the pants tonight, and I'm going to wear a slightly smaller t-shirt tomorrow when I ride and people are just going to have to deal with the reality of my @$$ in those stretchy pants. (sigh)

You just go girl! I've had my @$$ out there for a year now and hate it! More than once I've pictured a wide load triangle pasted to my butt! But you know what? It's working! :D The fat @$$ is sloooowly shrinking! I'm keeping my lycra purchases to a minimum so I can buy smaller non plus sizes next year! Bike riding is my salvation and I know that this is going to work! It will work for you too! And don't let anybody or anything stop you!! bikerHen

I will now step down from my soap box. Good Night :)

[sisu_concepts]

it all started at a used book sale when I bought a book called "You dont have to be Thin to Win" by by Judy Molnar (selling for one penny on amazon.com).

As a former lifeguard I knew I could swim. As a former Army employee I knew I could run. But, I had never been on a bike. At 253 lbs it seemed like a big "but"....However, then I read "The Fat, Slow Triathlete" by Jayne Williams and she helped me laugh a little more at myself and helped me realize I could live my athletic dreams in the body I have now...

Now, 4 months later, at 236 lbs, I just lost my triathlon virginity at the Fort Leavenworth Sprint Tri. And let me tell you what...not everything in Kansas is flat!

Everyday for the past 4 months I have worn the long leggings sold at Team Estrogen's plus size store. http://www.teamestrogen.com/categories.asp?catID=53 I even put them in the washer and dryer (gasp)!

I was soooo self-conscious but after one bike ride with the local bikeclub I bought the leggings because I knew I needed the padding and I just couldn't wear shorts because I knew I would obsess about my leg fat "shaking" around when I was biking .

I almost choked at spending $80 to make my butt even bigger but then something wicked happened when I put them on....it made me feel like a superhero!

I did find the Team Estrogen shirts to be a little too tight for my comfort level so I bought by bikeshirt at www.junonia.com. It is pricey but the quality is wonderful and one shirt has lasted through 3 months of almost daily washing and drying. However, dime for dime I find the Team Estrogen products to be superior.

Today, I saw on www.junonia.com that the baggy biking shorts are on sale! 25% off (which means they are still around $50) so I bought a pair today.

I swore I would never wear shorts biking but a funny thing happened to me somewhere between my 20th and 200th hill.... I stopped worrying about what everyone else was thinking...and I realized if I feel like a superhero today in these tights imagine what tomorrow will bring! And that has been the greatest lesson of my life.

[jobob]

If you're reluctant to wear cycling shorts in public, one thing that might be worth considering are lightweight 'cross-sport' type athletic pants to wear over your bike shorts.

REI makes some really nice ones, they don't have a chamois pad so you can slip them on over regular bike shorts, they're not too tight and not too loose, except for near the ankles where you want them to be a bit more form fitting. And they look perfectly acceptable in public, say if you want to duck into a store.

http://www.rei.com/product/47857870.htm?

I wear these all the time over my bike shorts when it's chilly out , instead of tights or leg warmers. They're lightweight enough I can even wear them when it's not very hot. Granted, for very hot weather this isn't a good solution, but it's worth considering when the weather turns cool again.

- Jo.

[Biking Chick]

[QUOTE=effulgent]I'm a very new, very out-of-shape rider. I say out of shape rider, but truth be told I haven't ridden a bike since college, and that was just for commuting around campus. I've never really been in shape, and I'm a pretty big gal.[QUOTE]

Celebrate who you are right at this moment - don't waste time worrying about what other people will think about you when all that counts is what you think. For every person in the world who might snicker at seeing a big gal on a bike there is a woman biker who is thinking ... Hey! A woman working towards a healthier lifestyle enjoying herself on a bike! Biking shorts, bright look-at-me jersey ... you go girl!!

Life is far too short to be spent thinking about body image - you'll miss too many of the day's wonderful gifts. If you change one thing about your eating habits each week - substituting a glass of water for soda or a glass of juice; choosing whole grains over refined grains whenever you can - include at least a half hour of exercise on most days you will go to bed at night feeling empowered that you are taking better care of yourself. It won't be long before you have confidence to try on that hot pink and yellow jersey ... and not give what the rest of the world thinks more than a second thought.

I hope you'll post to the list as ofen as you can - the women on this list have all been an inspiration - I have been moved just reading the postings to this thread. Welcome to the group.

[Beth-Ro]

Bike shorts can be scary.

I am also of the plus-sized persuasion, and the first time I put lycra on in the dressing room at the bike shop last August, I was, quite frankly, horrified by what I saw in the mirror. My fear of riding without some padding overrode my fear of wearing the shorts, so they were added to the pile at the register when I bought the bike. I shoved the bag containing the teeny tiny bundle of lycra under the back seat and instead concentrated on my pretty new orange mountain bike.

Then it was time for a ride...I snapped on those shorts and made the mistake of wearing regular shorts on top of them...modesty is such a pain in the tail, literally. My first few bike rides were fraught with tears and much huffing and puffing as I struggled up the cruely long and mocking hills of the blue ridge mountains...apparently we don't do anything flat around here. I was so overrun with the hill drama and my out-of-shape-ness that I didn't really notice the damage I was doing to my bikini line. The humidity and heat of August in South Carolina combined with that extra outer layer of shorts soon took it's toll and the chaffing was unreal. I was forced to swallow my pride, take off that extra layer, and ride with lycra-exposed thighs.

And you know what? Once I got on the bike, the focus was on the ride, not the outfit. And the ride was more enjoyable what without all that extra layer and chaffing and all.

Those people in their cars that MIGHT notice me riding my bike are to busy talking on their cell phone, eating their sausage biscuit, smoking their cigarrette, yelling at their kids, wondering if they paid the mortgage, and SPEEDING to really pay any attention to my cycling trousseau. Unless they ride. Then they are checking out the bike.

Of course it's one thing to don lycra and go riding with DH and quite another to parade before other riders/racers/been on a bike for at least 20 years types with their toned bodies and their fancy shmancy clipless pedals. But those guys I ride with have other, urm, protrusions they are constantly adjusting, so why am I so selfconcious?

And thank goodness I'm doing this for myself and not for them!!!

The Terry plus shorts have a 9-inch inseam. That should go to your knee. Right now I feel better with just-above-the-knee length shorts because they don't cut into my leg funny and I think the longer stuff would be more hot than I could take here in subtropical land. I just (it arrived yesterday) purchased the plus size orange Sporthill jersey from our dear sponsors here at TE and I LOVE IT! It is not body hugging and has no elastic in the sleeve or hem to ride, bind, and generally annoy me. This is the first jersey I've found that is ample enough across my chest.

So, find the gear, wear with pride, love your body, and look yourself in the mirror every morning and remind yourself "I am better today than I was yesterday". That's how I did it. And guess what? I've put 1300 miles or so on that new orange mountain bike...5 and 10 miles at a time...in less than a year. Mother's Day weekend I rode 40+ miles for the first time. And honey let me tell you about the muscles in my legs!!!!

Lycra is your friend. Embrase it and ride like the wind!

-beth, who was probably a little too excited about a plus sized sister on a bike

[effulgent]

You guys are so great, seriously! I do think I'll get leggings because I never thought about leg stuff jiggling before Sisu's post. I'm sure they would make me feel more comfortable. But I am pumped about investing in a pair of leggings and an obnoxious jersey.

And here's the bizarre question for the day - has anyone ever bought the Curves Sports Bra (http://shop.avon.com/avonshop/product.asp?src_page=product.asp&department=shop&level1_id=&level2_id=161&pdept_id=155&dept_id=158&pf_id=8239&level=3) that Avon sells? I'm not the Avon type, I've never bought anything from them before, but I noticed while perusing a catalog at lunch yesterday (a co-worker drapes the catalogs all over the building) that they have a sports bra for $15. The only ones I've found on the Internet have been $50 or more. I wear a 42D right now, which the catalog says will fit me, at least in theory. My main concern is that underwires SUCK when you're all sweating and whatnot. I could afford to get 3 Curves bras for what 1 bra somewhere else would cost. But if they are horrid, I don't want to even risk it.

Ladies?

[Beth-Ro]

I don't use a sports bra because I've never found one that was big enough, so post back here if you find one you like.

And please post back on the jersey you find that you like. I may have to try that Terry jersey too!

[Satori78]

So I've been lurking for awhile and decided that this was a good post to speak up on. My boyfriend is a long time biker and I got started going with him, VERY recently started biking and it sounds like I am in the same size category. After a ride or two when my girly parts and rear were sore, my boyfriend suggest padded shorts, and my reaction was of course :eek: :eek: :eek: LYCRA?!?!?

After some online browsing, I ended up going with the terry skort and so far so good. The only thing I've noticed is there seems to be a little size difference between the skirt part and the short part (i.e. the skirt seems to run smaller than the shorts). The shorts fit fine, could maybe be a little smaller (can't believe I said that), but the skirt part barely fits.

What has actually amazed me is that even with the skort (it's not that long), I was a little self-concious at first, but being out riding and getting the natural adrenalin (sp?) high from it has really helped me get over the self-conciousness. I say go out ride, the way I feel after far tops the concern about appearance.

Smiles,
Angela

[CorsairMac]

Welcome to the board Satori! Isn't it amazing the things you find here on the board, things you think "gosh maybe it's just me" until you come here and find out you're not alone! what a neat post!!

if you get a chance, there's a thread under the open titled "getting to know you".....it'll give ya about an hour of giggles learning about us - and if you're so inclined - tell us about you!!

Hope to hear more from you!

[nuthatch]

After some online browsing, I ended up going with the terry skort and so far so good.

I was going to suggest this too. When I started out last summer (before my bike infected me with its cocky, devil-may-care attitude) I felt so self-conscious about being in lycra, especially as a bike commuter arriving at work. I felt like the lycra was some sort of badge of fitness that only real serious cyclist types wore and I was a lumpy woman wobbling around on her wheels. So I made a little wrap-around skirt with a piece of sanded microfiber cotton I found at the fabric store and I love it! It covers the shorts, it looks cute and girly and I'm not shy to arrive at work in it. Takes very little fabric and I can't believe Canari and such are charging $40 for one!!! I only whip it off when I become SUPERCYCLER on the weekends! :D

[RoadRaven]

LOL
If anyone had said to me that when I was approaching 40 I would regularly go out in public... in the daytime... wearing lycra...

.... I would have collapsed on the floor in a laughing heap...

I started with padded tights and a big tee shirt... I have progressed to wearing shorts... I think in a few months I might get brave enough to lose my long tee shirts and wear a cycling jersey

But like everyone else has said, if you have been brave enough to reclaim your life in terms of increased fitness levels... who cares if you are twiggy thin, or weigh 500 pounds? The important thing is you are improving your fitness and health, and with that comes increased self esteem, self awareness and self love... with that comes more energy, healthy skin and hair, more patience, sometimes a change of wardrobe...

Enjoy the changes you are making for yourself and pity those you imagine are thinking about you because deep down they are jealous...
... jealous that they can't organise their time to make an effort for themsleves
... jealous that they can't motivate themselves to make a change in lifestyle before it is too late
... jealous because they are not a brave and cool biker chick like you, and like all of us here at TE

We rock, ladies. Never forget that.

[SadieKate]

Effulgent, I just saw your DH's post on your first rides. He's a wonderboy! He is so excited that you're riding and wants you to be happy and comfy on your bike. He's a good guy. I'll raise a Cytomax toast to him tomorrow!

[anaphase]

Doesn't Moving Comfort make a lot of plus-sized gear? I'm not sure about cycling stuff, but I know they make tops and bras for running and the gym.

I've heard good things from my plus sized runner friends about the Enell bra. Women who are in the 38 - 42 DD range rave about it. It's probably more heavy duty than you need for cycling (less bounce, I guess :) ) but might be worth a look.

Title9sports.com has a good rating system for their bras. They have little barbell icons and each bra is rated based on size and activity.

Again, good job on getting out there!!!

[cyclingnewbie]

I am still paranoid about how I look in riding clothes, but padded lycra shorts and wicking fabrics make me so much more comfortable, that I can convince myself to be seen in public in them. I also sweat just thinking about it, so wicking is critical. I have the Terry shorts, and I like them, but I also have several pair that are much cheaper from http://www.aerotechdesigns.com that I like better because the lycra is actually a little stiffer and holds everything in place a little better. On cooler days I wear a regular cotton t-shirt that comes just to the bottom of my stomach, but not past the crotch so it doesn't catch the nose of the saddle. I also have the Borah Plus Micro Jersey for very warm days because it's very lightweight and cool. And, I tell myself that at least I'm a fat person geting some exercise and if someone doesn't like how I look, they can buy a porn magazine and look at the pictures of "real" women in there (Hah!). Wear what you are comfortable in and enjoy the riding. Anyone and everyone looks good on a bike!!

[Asphaltgirl]

Never heard of "aerotechdesigns" before, but they have some great looking stuff! Especially that Flamingo shirt.................ordering now!
AG

[effulgent]

Effulgent, I just saw your DH's post on your first rides. He's a wonderboy! He is so excited that you're riding and wants you to be happy and comfy on your bike. He's a good guy. I'll raise a Cytomax toast to him tomorrow!

Yes, my husband is very cool. (She's referring to the bikeforum.com post, my husband's handle is "monogodo"). Every time we go on a ride, he tinkers with my bike a little more to make it better for me.

Today I went on an 8.75 mile ride, which is the farthest that I've ridden so far. And I didn't just completely collapse when I got home, which made me feel good. I am going to go exchange my saddle today, though. I got a nice cushy springy saddle thinking that it would be more comfortable for me, but I think I'd like one that is specifially cut for women and has a hole in the center. The first few rides, I would hold onto the handles funny, and I realized today it was because when I bent forward I mushed up my Girlie Parts and it made me very uncomfortable. Plus I keep poking myself in the butt with the seat, I think a shorter nosed saddle will help.

[Trek420]

effulgent posts "I think a shorter nosed saddle will help."

wellllll, I dunno about that, something about saddles that are a little longer is it gives you more options, slide your butt back for hills etc.

While you may need a different saddle, I know it sounds counterintuitive but super cooshy squooshy saddles can be LESS comfy. But think adjustment, allignment before going shorter.

there are many threads here that go on at length about saddle choice, favorites, least favorites.
:cool:

[DeniseGoldberg]

...but I think I'd like one that is specifially cut for women and has a hole in the center. The first few rides, I would hold onto the handles funny, and I realized today it was because when I bent forward I mushed up my Girlie Parts and it made me very uncomfortable.
Unfortunately, there isn't any one saddle that is comfortable for all of us. I tried a Terry saddle with the cut out and hated it. I use a saddle that is narrow and has just a little bit of padding - and that works for me. So as Trek says, cushier isn't always better.

My advice? Keep trying saddles until you find one that is right for you!
--- Denise

[SadieKate]

Today I went on an 8.75 mile ride, which is the farthest that I've ridden so far. And I didn't just completely collapse when I got home, which made me feel good. Way to go! You get the Windwalker Merlot toast tonight! Urr, that IS on my hill training program, right Yellow? :D

On the saddle issue, for the road I like long noses and little cush. They provide more support for the long haul and more position options (as Trek mentioned). Are you just getting poked when you're getting on and off the bike? That will lessen with practice and as you get stronger so you can lift up onto the saddle better. Try lots of saddles. Some manufacturers and shops give you return privileges so ask about that as you experiment.

[Pedal Wench]

Yes, my husband is very cool. (She's referring to the bikeforum.com post, my husband's handle is "monogodo"). Every time we go on a ride, he tinkers with my bike a little more to make it better for me.
.


OH! I thought it was you guys, but I wasn't sure. I'm '3cannondales (+1Bianchi)' over at www.bikeforums.net, and I suggested he take you clothes shopping - immediately! He is very cool, and so proud!

Regarding saddles, I found that a saddle that's wide enough to support your sitbones is essential. Otherwise, all your weight in on the stuff 'between' the sitbones - ouch!!! That's why most of us end up gravitating towards a stiffer saddle too. With a squishy saddle, your sitbones sink into the cushion, and then your girly bits are hitting the saddle too - not good!

[effulgent]

I never thought of that. Super squishy makes you sink in ... go figure!

Yeah, the bike store we go to has a 30 day seat return policy, as long as it looks new and it's within 30 days, they'll return it. So I can return it as many times as I need to until I find a seat that works for me. It's a really good bike shop.

[effulgent]

I rode on Sunday with the same legging pangs that made me so sore on Saturday. BIG mistake. The leggings are made to be for aerobics, and have raised seams in the crotch for a dry-weave type liner. In a diamond shape. In a bad place. So I made it pretty far but my form was for crap. By the time I got home, I was almost in tears.

When my husband was out doing the laundry this morning, he took a good look at my shorts, and said, "Sweetie, with those seams it's a miracle you can even walk. Get some bike shorts. Today." So I ordered the Knickers Plus off the TE site today. Yeah me!

Also, this weekend I went and got some athletic men's shirts with a dry-weave material, pretty much the same stuff as jerseys. It's not as nice as a jersey, because it doesn't have a zipper or pockets, but it felt great when riding. And they're super long and not too loose, so they laid against my skin and did a good job of wicking the sweat. It almost made up for the fact that my crotch was aching so bad.

This week I'm going to give my poor soft spots a rest, and do weight training and the elliptical machine. My muscles are fine, but my heart keeps giving out on hills. I want to get my endurance up so that I can go fairly steadily for 1-1 1/2 hours and do longer rides on the weekends.

Biking is fun, but expensive. Now I have to get new pedals and cycling shoes, and at some point I want to upgrade my seat. Our LBS has a 30-day return policy and I have a distinct feeling my new saddle is going to be too mushy. I'm going to do that sit on a curb with a piece of paper thing and figure out exactly what size my seat should be before I go back to exchange my seat yet again.

It sure helps that my husband had tons of stuff from when he used to bike, including clothes, boxes of bike parts and an almost brand new pair of Diodoro Chili shoes that he's going to let me wear until I can afford shoes of my own.

[nuthatch]

Biking is fun, but expensive. Now I have to get new pedals and cycling shoes, and at some point I want to upgrade my seat.

Truer words were never spoken! The upgrades never, never end :D

[KSH]

I had extreme fear of lycra last night when I tried on my triathlon suit.

Due to the seams being up the middle of the crotch... and padding on each side...

The effect... SUPER CAMEL TOE!!!!!


Yes, that tri suit is going back.

I have now ordered shorts that specifically say that the seams do NOT go up the middle of the crotch.

[bikerz]

Hi -
This is my first post here, although this forum is one of the things that inspired me to get into cycling 4 months ago. I've lost 35 pounds since getting on the bike - and completed my first 40 mile ride last weekend - so thanks to all of you for sharing your stories - they are very encouraging. I've still got a ways to go, but I am getting stronger every ride, and having a great time.

But - the clothing and image issue is a problem... The first few times I rode (5, 10 12, miles) I really had to psyche myself up to not think about how ridiculous I must look on a road bike (like an grape on the top of a toothpick!). My cyclist friends have been very supportive, and keep saying "there are all types of cyclists out there - don't worry about it", but 30+ years of poor self- image takes a little while to unlearn! Recently, I have noticed that I now a spend less time thinking about how I look, and more time thinking about how I feel, which is stronger, fitter (maybe more like an olive than a grape?) and happier than ever - and the heck with what anyone else thinks!

The shorts I used to wear all the time were my Mt Borah baggy cycling shorts - I felt too self-conscious to wear my lycra shorts - BUT - a few rides ago, the baggy shorts were in the washer and I had to wear my non-baggy lycra shorts - and they were so much more comfortable! So I am ordering another pair, and the baggys will go to the back of the drawer.

The lycra shorts are "Aerotech classic shorts" from www.aerotechdesigns.com - web site is a little strange, but the shorts are good quality, very comfortable, and only $30.

I can really relate to the frustration of trying to get out and exercise in appropriate clothing, but having a hard time finding decently made, affordable clothes - and when you're losing weight, its hard to justify buying expensive clothes that will just be too big eventually. All winter I rode in my shorts and short sleeve jersey, because cold-weather clothes were almost impossible to find in my (hopefully soon to be obsolete) size, and so exensive! Then just as the weather turned warmer, it occurred to me that I could wear leg warmers and arm warmers - and they should fit for a while yet.

Thanks again to everyone who has shared their experiences here - you've all helped make a difference in my life, and I'm grateful.

[RoadRaven]

Welcome to the forum, bikerz

Good on you for getting out there and getting yourself fitter

Your friends are right, cyclists come in all shapes and sizes - the important thing is what you are feeling now... increased fitness makes you feel so much better, physically, yes, but also psychologically and spiritually...

35 pounds in 4 months... thats quite dramatic - I assume you have rearranged your diet also? There are some great nutrition ideas on the forum too.

And 40 miles after 4 months... quite impressive... have you had previous bike experience, because thats a decent little bit of endurance riding for a beginnner...

To lose so much you must be really working on lifting your heart rate?

Are you on a road bike, a hybrid or an off-roader?

Keep posting and let us now how you go

[bikerz]

Thanks for the welcome and the encouragement!

Well, actually I hadn't ridden a bike since commuting in college, which was a long time ago! I have modified my diet, but what has mostly doe the trick is cycling a lot - I try to do 20+ miles twice a week, and another 30+ on the weekend, and a lot of walking. My metabolism seems to require lots of steady exertion. Although, in the last few weeks, with my cycling distance increasing, the weight loss has stopped - I guess I'm getting more muscle now. Clothes are still looser, so I'm trying not to get discouraged, and just keep riding!

I have a sturdy road bike (Specialized Sequoia), and it is a little heavy, but I'm not going to worry about that until I'm a lot less heavy!

[RoadRaven]

Specialized Sequioa - never heard of them

But it made me think of the redwoods we have planted in front of the house (plenty of space for them to grow)

My one regret when I was in California was that I didn't go up north to see the redwood forests there. I bet there are some fabulous roads thru forests to cycle along - and some super tracks for off-roading, no doubt

And yeah, clothes getting looser - thats how I measure success. I weighed myself last month and I had lost half a stone, but I don't have scales in the house, so have to wait til I go back to my friend's place and can use her scales again

Well done bikerz

[wabisabi]

Yes, there ARE fabulous roads up here in the redwoods! I did a metric a couple of weeks ago which ran in part along the Avenue of the Giants. Yesterday I did 45 miles, there through the redwoods and back along the coast, stopping midway at our favorite organic coffee place. There is a 600 acre community redwood forest behind my house. I walk there mostly with the doggies, but there are lots of MTBers. There is actually a 12 hour MTB ride through the forests coming up.

Having said that, I have alway longed to see your part of the world, it sounds pretty magical also.

[RoadRaven]

It is pretty magical here too, though I have not cycled much of it ... yet ...

Near Rotorua there is a Redwood Forest with a MB track running through it - thats on my list of things to do, though I also wish I had seen some redwoods in their home country

[shades]

Just found these forums -- how cool! I'm a new cyclist, as well, and also pretty large (I fall on the high end of misses sizes, or the very low end of plus sizes). I have been horrified, though not terribly surprised, to find that bike clothing runs, um, really small for the most part. "Normal" XL's almost always fit me comfortably, but not so with bike clothing (shorts okay, jerseys no way).

As to the lycra fear, I hear ya and I understand. I just decided when I really started riding that my comfort on the bike was far more important than my vanity. So I don't worry about wearing lycra shorts. I do carry a pair of normal shorts, a knee-length skirt, or a pair of capris with me when I ride if I know I'm going to have to go into a store or a restaurant -- I just slip them on over the bike shorts, so I can feel comfortable surrounded by people who aren't seeing me on the bike.

It's hard to do, I know -- but you just have to do your best to get over worrying about what other people are going to think. And remember, a lot of people who see you will be secretly cheering you on for being out exercising, no matter how bad you think you look.

[RoadRaven]

Welcome to the forum, shades.

Dont worry about the sizing thing

My partner is an L or XL in normal clothes - but when it comes to bike clothes (and depending on the brand) he may be wearing up to XXXL

I tend to just cut the tags out, and then I dont have to think about it.

[effulgent]

Hello all!

Just thought I'd give a quick update to how I'm doing. I've put 71 miles on my bike so far this year. I've been riding 3-4 times a week. Yesterday I rode for 12.5 miles, which is the farthest I have rode so far on one ride. I got really shaky after I had been out for about 50 minutes, so we stopped at a 7-11 for a Fig Newton bar and some Gatorade, so that helped quite a bit. I'm still woefully out of shape, but I'm getting better. My first ride this year I was only able to make it 2.5 miles and my husband had to go and get the car and pick me up because I couldn't make it home. I was worried about that yesterday, but I did finally make it home, even though it took a couple of rests after the one hour point to make it in.

I'm going to do some research and see if I can find a site that has a good list of strengthening exercises that I can do a few times a week to help my riding. I think it would help my riding a lot. Plus it's starting to get hot, and it's going to get to the point where I can't ride when I get home from work at night because it's 99 degrees outside. I want to be getting in better shape so that I can go on nice long bike rides in the mornings on the weekends, and tone and do cardio during the week. Listen to me, sounding all atheletic!!!

I've invested in some Terry Plus knickers and some dri-weave t-shirts, and I've been using my husband's Diadoro shoes. They're about a half-size too big, but the've been working. Now, I just have to talk my husband into letting me try his clipless pedals that go with the Diadoros (with a bike he doesn't ride often) until I can get my own, and we'll be in business!

[bikerz]

Way to go effulgent! Keep at it! It just gets better and better, and more and more fun!

When I started riding in January, 10 miles was my goal, and when I hit it I was thrilled. Riding regularly has made such a big difference, and I can now do my regular weeknight 20-mile ride without stopping at all, and I'm working on increasing my pace, and then adding distance on the weekends.

Do you have anyone to ride with? Having a couple of riding buddies has really helped me -- I have several friends that are experienced cyclists, and are (thankfully) happy to ride with me on these "short" rides - working to keep up with them has really motivated me, and they have taught me all the cycling protocols and safety rules. One tip that really helps is "drink before you're thirsty and eat before you're hungry". I also got a computer on my bike, and when I ride alone I watch the average speed and heart-rate to keep working hard.

I hear ya about the heat - it totally undoes me, so I have been riding very early in the morning on weekends. Luckily here in the Bay Area in the evenings, it generally cools off - then there are just the wicked bay "breezes" to contend with! (I try to think of them as workout enhancers!)

My next challenge is to work more hills in. I feel pretty strong on the flats, but as soon as I hit a longish hill, I really feel the extra weight I am carrying up the hill, more than my strength, and it's a little discouraging. So I want to keep dropping the weight before tackling anything too serious.

Congrats!

[RoadRaven]

Way to go efflugent!!!
The beginnning of riding is when you'll see the most dramtic increases in terms of fitness and endurance.
Like bikerz says, its def worth worth it!
Thanks for keeping us posted, always good to hear about the love for cycling spreading!

[KSH]

And remember, a lot of people who see you will be secretly cheering you on for being out exercising, no matter how bad you think you look.

Whenever I see someone who is not in *perfect* shape... walking, running, riding a bike... I always think, "Good for them, at least they are doing something to improve their health!"