Fat and Unfit - How to Start Biking?

[Jude]

I've decided to finally do something about my weight and complete lack of fitness. My town has lots of fairly flat hiking and biking trails, so, although I haven't been on a bike since I was a teenager - I'm 39 now - I'm thinking that it might be a good low-impact form of exercise for me.

I'm 60lbs overweight, apple-shaped, and fairly, um, blessed in the boob department. For these reasons I'm thinking that it might be a good idea to start out with a comfort bike, being more upright seems like the way to go, plus, I'm not exactly gonna go fast for a while! Does that sound reasonable?

I guess I'm looking for words of encouragement and advice about how to start out. For example any good places to buy plus sized gear? Also, and this sounds stupid, but will I remember how to ride a bike? It's been 25 years!

[TigerMom]

How tall are you? Will you be riding mountain or road?

If you are tall enough, men's bikes might be better for you because men's bikes tend to hold more weight. But, best to find a local bike shop with a certified bike fitter. Then, you don't have to worry as much about getting the wrong bike.

There are also lots and lots of websites for plus, plus, plus size biking gear (jerseys/biking shorts) if you don't fit anything in the store.

Lots of TE members have lost weight and gained athleticism via biking. As for riding a bike in more than 25 yrs, me too. I just started myself at the age of 35++ years old. You'll pick it up. But you'll have to try riding in order to remember how to do it. So don't give up!
_________________________________________________
2012 Specialized Amira Elite, upgraded carbon handle bars, Jett saddle 143mm switched to 145mm 2012 Selle Italia Max SLR Gel Flow saddle

2011 Specialized Ariel Sport,suspension post,Serfas Rx Women's Microfiber saddle

[mzone]

It's great low impact exercise!

As far as bikes are concerned, test drive lots and maybe end up with something used to start. If you really enjoy cycling, you'll probably want to upgrade soon.

I'm also overweight. I bought a "comfort" bike about five years ago and rarely used it. I felt like all of my energy was going up and down in the shocks and cushy seat instead of forward.

Two and 1/2 years ago I bought an "urban hybrid" bike - skinny tires, flat bar, low-end road components with a mountain bike style frame. That ended up being a much better bike for me, and I started commuting and doing longer rides of 20-25 miles.

Six months later I was so excited about riding that I bought a carbon road bike. My body has changed greatly, and now I'm thinking about doing my first century.

Good luck with whatever you decide. Just make sure it fits you well. If you get a bad fit, you can get discouraged quickly.

[mzone]

P.S. Team Estrogen has a plus sized filter for the clothing they have for sale on this site. I'm about a size 16w/1x in street clothes, but I take a xxl in Terry and the tighter cut Pearl Izumi. Shebeest and Moving Comfort (harder to find brands) fit me well in 1x. I haven't tried Mt Borah yet.

[Owlie]

Welcome to TE! TE does have plus sizes, and awesome customer service.

Perhaps start out with a hybrid. I say this because the cruiser-type comfort bikes are really only good for very short rides, and so if you like biking, you'll get more use out of a hybrid. Shop around and test a lot of bikes.

Good luck, and have fun. :)

[girlontheroad]

Jude, Welcome. I know just where you are coming from and in fact I have been lurking here for about 6 months and finally am jumping in the conversation. I started biking about 1 1/2 years ago..had thought about it for a while and wish I had tried it earlier because now I"m addicted. I went to my local bike store which happened to be a trek superstore--or rather the one I chose was. They were great about asking what type of riding I was going to do and letting me try out bikes. I ended up with hybrid that I loved and at the beginning of this summer I bought an entry road bike that I love even more. The hybrid was great to start because of the more upright positioning and due to neck problems in the past I've also chosen a road bike that I can be more upright on even with drop bars so I"m not in the most athletic position. I'm turning the hybrid into a "running errands" bike. So, you are warned--not only is it fun, but it's addictive! Since starting I have lost over 30 pounds--still have about 80 more to go. Recently I find that the clothes size is shrinking more than the pounds are coming off, but I'll take what I can get. It's good when your dr. walks in the office and says, "The scale doesn't say you lost weight since your last visit, but you definitely did when I look at you." And more importantly I feel better, stronger, and actually feel athletic, which is a completely new feeling for me given I have never been athletic in any way.

So, I guess I'm saying you are not alone. :D Find a local bike store and have them help you decide what type of bike to get that you will be comfortable with. The hardest part for me was riding a bike for the first time in the parking lot at the store; however, it all came back immediately I hadn't ridden since high school. Keep in mind when buying that you probably will want a new one once you are fit. For some people that means buying a bike they can sell or convert as a first bike; for some it means making sure they buy something they think will last; and for others it means buying used or less expensive bike as the first one until you decide if you like it. Some LBS will also let you rent bikes for a bit to try it out; just be aware that won't be quite the same as your bike. IF you aren't comfortable with the folks at one LBS try another if you have the option of more than one. I still find them intimidating even though they have been nothing but nice to me.

OK, that was probably a lot more than you wanted to know, but as you can see I really fell for cycling and it's made a huge difference in how I feel and look. And for plus clothes, I love Terry. You can get some of their stuff on TE. They have been good quality and fit well with a relaxed fit I like so they aren't quite so tight.

Enjoy the ride and let us know what you get!!

Chris:)

[thekarens]

For encouragement I'll say you can do it! 7 months ago I was 70lbs overweight. Now I only have 20lbs left to go to reach my goal.

My advice is to take one day at a time and not be too hard on yourself. When I started I could only stay on the elliptical 5 minutes. Now an hour is easy for me.

I'm also a beginner rider. I've got an entry level mountain bike on layaway that I should have out in Sept. I'm betting it will help with this last 20. I'm seriously bored with the gym.

[marni]

125 pounds ago I could barely ride a mile a day. When I could ride one I aimed for 2 ad so on. recently in may I rode the length of the Mississippi from New Orleans to its headwaters in Lake Itasca MN. Yoyu can do it."baby steps, baby steps."

[TrekDianna]

You all give me hope.

[Bike Writer]

Welcome and congratulations on taking charge of your life and your health! Bike riding will come back to you, just take it slow and easy to start and bike someplace where there are few obstacles until you get past the wobbles.

When I first got back into bicycling I was shocked to know how much being out of shape affected my ability to handle a bike. It takes a few rides to feel like you can control the bike because being out of shape means you don't have much strength either. Strength, confidence and control comes with time on the bike. Starting out with a used bike means little investment until you are certain that you will keep up with it. I have no doubt you will because cycling is very addictive. It makes you feel good and feel good about yourself. After a few months you will know what kind of riding you'll be doing and you can get a better bike. However, if money is no object, start off with a new one by all means!

[sashadieken]

You've come to the right place! You'll find encouragement and support as well as answers to the questions you don't want to ask anyone else! That's been my experience. I always find that somebody here knows the answer, no matter how basic or strange my question is.

I'm another one with that familiar story that begins with wanting to lose weight and feel fit, wondering if I could ride a bike again, getting started, getting hooked, and looking to upgrade the wheels! I ride every other day, and then kayak on the other days. I've lost 15 lbs so far, with about 25-30 to go. I started with riding to the end of our street and now I can do 20 miles.

What's addicting are the endorphins! Life is beautiful again!

[Wahine]

Welcome to TE!!

I'm a physical therapist during the day and moonlight as a coach. Riding a bike is a great way to get back into shape while minimizing the impact on your joints!

Most people that are heavier do best on hybrids to start out. Then as you get fitter you may want a different bike. It's sounds a little crazy to buy one bike then another in a year but think of it as an investment in your health. Spending time an money on a bike will help to keep many heath problems away!

I wish I could find an article on line that I read in the Rivendell Newsletter one time. It was about a man who was a little over 500 lbs and had been told by his doctor that he had about 3 years to live unless he lost the weight. He tried walking but it was too painful. He started riding a bike but all the bikes he tried couldn't support his weight without breaking down. Rivendell (custom steel bike builder) worked with him to build a really beefy bike that would take his weight. He started out barely able to do 1 mile, but he tried to ride every day. 2 years later he was down to 230 lbs!! Less than half his former body weight!! This was combined with diet of course. He also had a rule that he had to ride at least 10 miles every day at that point. Even in the middle of a Minnesota winter.

Good luck on your journey. Please check in to TE often and let us know how you're doing.

[lph]

Welcome to TE! I think you'll find answers to just about anything you might be wondering about here, and then some, but I'll just say one thing since it crops up often:
don't think you need a big, cushy saddle because you're heavier than some riders. The size and shape of the saddle has very little, if anything, to do with how much weight you're carrying on the outside. If you don't believe me just check out any bike rider from behind, and see how narrow the saddle is compared to the total size of anybody's butt :)

A comfortable saddle is important for comfortable riding. It has to be wide enough to support your sit bones, but narrow enough to avoid chafing. Any good bike store will know this, and if they don't say anything about it, ask.

Oh, and a bike is a fantastic way to work out while carrying extra weight. I carried on biking up into high pregnancy because it was by far the most comfortable way of moving and getting some exercise.

[Kiwi Stoker]

+1 with looking at a hybrid road bike. If you end up liking cycling you will outgrow the comfort bike a lot sooner. At least with the hybrid bike you will be able to go event rides on it so will last longer.

Don't forget to invest in cycle shorts and gloves as well has helmet, puncture repair kit and pump. And get out there.

Also don't be afraid to talk to anyone cycling as well. You might find like minded people and create a group. The other day a guy caught up to DH and I on our tandem. He and his wife were new in town and also had a tandem. We exchanged numbers and now we have some cycle budies as well as new friends (we have had them over for dinners!).

Cycling is a fantastic way to grow healthy and grow as a person.

Welsome!

[lovelygamer]

Welcome! I am also 60 lbs overweight and have been cycling all summer on a Raleigh seven speed hybrid. I've done about 450 miles or 35 miles a week. You can cycle no matter how heavy you are. I know a guy at least 100 lbs overweight who is actually a bicycle cop. He's been on a bike since he was a kid. GOOD LUCK!:D

[indigoiis]

Welcome, Jude! I got on my bike again after quitting smoking and drinking, so I know the reward getting your life on a positive track can be! And you will grow to love being on the bicycle for more than just maintaining or losing weight. You'll find it is time for you to reflect, be by yourself, and see places you can't see in a car. Congratulations on your awesome decision.

I agree with the other posters. Start with a hybrid. Or even just buy a cheapo hybrid to get you going from Craigslist while you shop for a bike you will love. That way, you can ride down to the bike shop! :) Most important is a saddle that supports your sit bones and is not too too cushy because it actually can make a ride hurt worse if the seat is all foam. Don't worry about if you can remember to ride a bike. Just take it slow at first and enjoy it!

[Sky King]

Awesome, do not get discouraged. Remember to try to not compare yourself to anyone but yourself. If it's 2 miles it's 2 miles. Slow and steady, steady and slow that's the way we always go (sorry one of my favorite childhood rhymes) my mantra when climbing hills.

[Catrin]

Awesome, do not get discouraged. Remember to try to not compare yourself to anyone but yourself. If it's 2 miles it's 2 miles. Slow and steady, steady and slow that's the way we always go (sorry one of my favorite childhood rhymes) my mantra when climbing hills.

+100 on her advice. It doesn't matter at all what others are doing, focus on your efforts. I started from the same place you are only 2.5 years ago and I was 50 at the time. Just be consistent, pace yourself so you don't over-do things, and keep at it. Congratulations for taking this important step in your life, and welcome to TE!

[Melalvai]

When I got a bike in college it had been a few years since I had last ridden a bike and I remember it being awkward and alarming. I don't remember how long it took to get more comfortable. Not very long, and I was only riding to campus, maybe a mile. Maybe after 25 years it might take a little bit longer, but I don't think it'll take very long.

[PamNY]

Start with a hybrid. Or even just buy a cheapo hybrid to get you going from Craigslist while you shop for a bike you will love. That way, you can ride down to the bike shop! :) Most important is a saddle that supports your sit bones and is not too too cushy because it actually can make a ride hurt worse if the seat is all foam.

Welcome to TE, and I second the above advice. I started with a used hybrid and it worked out well (I did have to upgrade the saddle). I returned to cycling at age 58 and I'm having a great time.

Don't worry about speed or distance at first -- just keep cycling. Yes, you will remember how to ride a bike. Don't be discouraged if it takes a while to build strength and don't compare yourself to others.

This group is great for guidance and encouragement. Post any questions you have -- even if they seem trivial.

Most important, have fun, and let us know how it's going.

[Jude]

Wow, what an overwhelming response, thanks everybody!

I'm 5'3" 180 pounds so am guessing a women specific bike would probably fit best. Guess I'll get some advice of that from REI. REI is an OK place to buy a bike, right? I guess I find them less intimidating than specialized stores.

At least at first my riding will be done mainly on trails. There's a bike trail about half a mile from my house, it connects with a couple of others, so, when I get fitter it'll be possible to go 20+ miles without riding on roads, except to cross them. The trails are asphalt, though not necessarily that well maintained. Would a hybrid bike work for that? (Showing how little I know, I didn't even know that hybrid bikes existed until several of you recommended them.)

Kinda embarrassing question: For those of us who are larger, do our boobs and tummies get in the way while riding? I carry all my excessive weight in my mid-section - I've relatively slim legs and hips, for my weight - but I've a 39 inch waist and I'm a 40E.

I'll definitely follow the advice to start slowly, little by little, I hope to get slimmer and fitter.

[Owlie]

Wow, what an overwhelming response, thanks everybody!

I'm 5'3" 180 pounds so am guessing a women specific bike would probably fit best. Guess I'll get some advice of that from REI. REI is an OK place to buy a bike, right? I guess I find them less intimidating than specialized stores.

At least at first my riding will be done mainly on trails. There's a bike trail about half a mile from my house, it connects with a couple of others, so, when I get fitter it'll be possible to go 20+ miles without riding on roads, except to cross them. The trails are asphalt, though not necessarily that well maintained. Would a hybrid bike work for that? (Showing how little I know, I didn't even know that hybrid bikes existed until several of you recommended them.)

Kinda embarrassing question: For those of us who are larger, do our boobs and tummies get in the way while riding? I carry all my excessive weight in my mid-section - I've relatively slim legs and hips, for my weight - but I've a 39 inch waist and I'm a 40E.

I'll definitely follow the advice to start slowly, little by little, I hope to get slimmer and fitter.

A hybrid will be perfectly fine on those.

[lph]

A more upright position will easily accomodate any extra weight you carry around the middle. Just don't worry about speed for a long time yet, enjoy riding and the scenery! People will pass you all the time. As you lose weight and gain fitness you can start thinking about a bike with a more forward-leaning position, if you want to go faster. But as I read somewhere - there's always someone out there who is fitter and faster than you, so there's no point in worrying about it. Riding slowly has its own special value.

[Jude]

An internal hub means the cogs on the rear wheel are enclosed, and stay nice and clean. Great for areas like the beach or where there will be a lot gunk built up in the gearing. Probably not necessary on a bike path.

Is it hilly where you live?

Internal hub sounds good. I don't think I want too many gears as it seems confusing - the last bike I rode only had three!

It's pretty flat here. I can definitely avoid hills until I get fitter. This trail is a couple of miles from my house: http://www.yelp.com/biz/iron-horse-trail-dublin

[TigerMom]

As long as REI has a certified fitter, I think that it is fine to get a bike from there. However, as far as I know, REI does not seem to have as knowledgeable of bike salesman as the local bike shop. Feel free to have the TE forum disagree with me.
_________________________________________________
2012 Specialized Amira Elite, upgraded carbon handle bars, Jett saddle 143mm switched to 145mm 2012 Selle Italia Max SLR Gel Flow saddle

2011 Specialized Ariel Sport,suspension post,Serfas Rx Women's Microfiber saddle

[laura*]

Internal hub sounds good. I don't think I want too many gears as it seems confusing - the last bike I rode only had three!

Internal gears aren't necessarily a panacea. If something goes wrong, they'll be more expensive to repair. You also might not notice a problem until it turns into a major repair.

With a 3 speed internal hub, you'd also be at the mercy of the bike designer: The three gears might be hard, difficult, and impossible! If you get a bike with more speeds, then you can hang out in the easier gears if needed.

If you want simplicity, I'd recommend a bike with 8 (or 7, or 9) speeds: One chainring up front, and then multiple cogs in back.


As long as REI has a certified fitter, I think that it is fine to get a bike from there. However, as far as I know, REI does not seem to have as knowledgeable of bike salesman as the local bike shop. Feel free to have the TE forum disagree with me.

Elsewhere it has been suggested to not think of REI as a bike shop. Instead, it is a store that also happens to sell bikes. It might actually be a very good place for Jude to get a bike - most of their customers are probably casual riders.

[PamNY]

Internal hub sounds good. I don't think I want too many gears as it seems confusing - the last bike I rode only had three!

It's pretty flat here. I can definitely avoid hills until I get fitter. This trail is a couple of miles from my house: http://www.yelp.com/biz/iron-horse-trail-dublin

Gears are not at all confusing, and you may want to cycle on hills sooner than you think.

Especially when you first start cycling and are working on your strength, it's lovely to be able to slip into a very low gear to do a slight incline or deal with a strong headwind.

No reason to be afraid of gears at all -- it's all very simple and logical, and within a short time you will know what gear you need to be in to get where you are going.

[Bethany1]

Welcome!

I have a Townie with internal gears. They are well designed and the gearing lets me go up hills. It's really hubby's bike and I don't ride it much. It's actually a nice ride, but it really wasn't meant for any kind of long distances or for going terribly fast. I do like the flat foot technology though. If you just want to cruise around, it's great, but that's about it. It's fairly heavy as well.

You'd want a bike that sits upright or you'll find yourself squashed into your bike in agony. Once I got my Fargo and wasn't in a pretzel formation, my entire riding outlook changed. Pay for a professional fitting. It's really worth it.

The hardest part at first was the clothing. I felt like a stuffed sausage about to explode and that everyone was laughing at me. I found that mountain bike clothing fits me much better and I like the look. You need the lightweight clothing for ease of riding and they are designed loud so that cars can see you. Jeans/pants get chewed up by your chain rings and once you start sweating, they turn uncomfortable.

When you get your bike, we want pics. Or if you have questions about bikes you are looking at, post away.

Being overweight is hard but getting out there and doing something gives you power and that is an amazing feeling.

[malkin]

If you Google "Bay Area bike shops" you'll get a map with location markers and listings, and if you click on the listings you'll be able to read reviews.

It's been (quite) a while since I lived in Berkeley, but the world really has changed for the worse if you can't find a bike shop that will serve you!

[Irulan]

Elsewhere it has been suggested to not think of REI as a bike shop. Instead, it is a store that also happens to sell bikes. It might actually be a very good place for Jude to get a bike - most of their customers are probably casual riders.

Make sure you get someone from the bike department to help you. They do have shop guys there. You just don't want someone from kayaks who is filling in in the bike department.

[Antaresia]

It's good when your dr. walks in the office and says, "The scale doesn't say you lost weight since your last visit, but you definitely did when I look at you." And more importantly I feel better, stronger, and actually feel athletic, which is a completely new feeling for me given I have never been athletic in any way.

oooo I can relate to this so much. I've been biking every day for over a year - up some pretty steep hills, 9km a day for my work commute. Stopped buying bus passes. I haven't lost any weight XD

But I know I look better - my friends tell me (I think it is hard for people to see themselves accurately in the mirror). I also love feeling strong, my legs have muscle. My thighs have substance. It still continues to amaze me, I've never been athletic either.

And now I drink all the beer I want guilt-free. Bike-life is a good life.

[Trek420]

If you Google "Bay Area bike shops" you'll get a map with location markers and listings, and if you click on the listings you'll be able to read reviews.

It's been (quite) a while since I lived in Berkeley, but the world really has changed for the worse if you can't find a bike shop that will serve you!

Why just use Google when there's TE :) :cool: Much more better.

http://forums.teamestrogen.com/showthread.php?t=46985

[sirenizzed]

Wow, methinks I have stumbled upon a wonderful support group. I too am significantly overweight and decided that biking would be the best way to get me active. Low impact on joints and i still break a sweat. I just purchased my bike a few weeks ago. I got a Bianchi Torino Dama, well look at the avatar. I quickly discovered my bike seat and I do not get along. We arent friends and im not even speaking to it anymore. I ordered a Brooks B67 today and once that comes in, stella ( not my real name) can get her groove back.

[goldfinch]

Wow, methinks I have stumbled upon a wonderful support group. I too am significantly overweight and decided that biking would be the best way to get me active. Low impact on joints and i still break a sweat. I just purchased my bike a few weeks ago. I got a Bianchi Torino Dama, well look at the avatar. I quickly discovered my bike seat and I do not get along. We arent friends and im not even speaking to it anymore. I ordered a Brooks B67 today and once that comes in, stella ( not my real name) can get her groove back.

Congratulations! A few weeks ago I bought that same bike for my sister. I'll have to ask her how the seat is doing, it does look like it is overkill in the width department.

[bakoblues]

Where are you all when I ride?! I'm the only chubby cyclist I've ever seen on my local bike path.

I recently decided to try to get into good enough shape to ride a half century for my 50th birthday in March and I'm getting intimidated. I don't really know where to start. I've started riding my bike home from work (about 14 miles) 1 day a week, but I'm SO slow - it takes me an hour. I don't have much time to do long rides; I work nights/shift work, 1800-0600, so I have to ride alone at night on my days off, which limits areas and time due to safety, and I live in an extremely flat area so I can't practice hills. I'm getting in about 20 min rides as fast as I can at nights I don't work and I'm jogging on the treadmill for 30 min on the nights I do work (again, at an absymally slow rate but better than watching TV during break). I'm also chicken about riding in an event with my inexpensive bike, overweight, unmatching gear, and having no idea about the rules, but I'm going to suck that part up and just deal with it. It will be one day of my life with people I will probably never see again so I can get thru that part of it as long as I can finish it.

I don't know what my benchmarks should be so that I can judge if I'm getting in shape fast enough. I can't find information on line about a half (it doesn't sound like that's much of a goal for most people). Am I biting off too much? How do you know?

[Cynedra]

I'm also chicken about riding in an event with my inexpensive bike, overweight, unmatching gear, and having no idea about the rules, but I'm going to suck that part up and just deal with it.

I was nervous about all that too, but I went and did a ride that raised money to support the trail that I ride on and had an awesome time. There were all sorts of people and all sorts of bikes. I did it again the next year, and will be doing it again in October. So far, it is the only one I have done - I usually don't have the money to pay the fees but as I use the trail so much I feel like it is the least I can do. I still don't have the proper biking clothing and I survive. I do have clothing that does wick so that helps. Pick a ride that has multiple levels though and just go for it. You will most likely be glad you did.

[pinsonp2]

You are doing this for YOU, so don't worry about what anyone else may think. I am slow too (by the way, 14 miles in one hour is no slouch!), but I completed a 'casual century' three weeks ago. I am way too slow to do so many miles in an organized ride, so a biker friend of mine came along and we encouraged each other. She also rode with me for my 60 mile birthday ride. Do you have any friends who bike who could do some of the miles with you? Maybe you live near some TE members who would be willing to come along. Several options, just remember you are doing this for yourself and the gear/apparel you use is fine as long as it works for you. Good luck and I know you can do it!!!!

P2

[malkin]

Where are you all when I ride?! ...

Well, where are you?
Check the Places to Ride section of TE and look for people near you, or post a shout out to see who else is loitering around in your same boat...er--bike.

[goldfinch]

Where are you all when I ride?! I'm the only chubby cyclist I've ever seen on my local bike path.

I recently decided to try to get into good enough shape to ride a half century for my 50th birthday in March and I'm getting intimidated. I don't really know where to start. I've started riding my bike home from work (about 14 miles) 1 day a week, but I'm SO slow - it takes me an hour. I don't have much time to do long rides; I work nights/shift work, 1800-0600, so I have to ride alone at night on my days off, which limits areas and time due to safety, and I live in an extremely flat area so I can't practice hills. I'm getting in about 20 min rides as fast as I can at nights I don't work and I'm jogging on the treadmill for 30 min on the nights I do work (again, at an absymally slow rate but better than watching TV during break). I'm also chicken about riding in an event with my inexpensive bike, overweight, unmatching gear, and having no idea about the rules, but I'm going to suck that part up and just deal with it. It will be one day of my life with people I will probably never see again so I can get thru that part of it as long as I can finish it.

I don't know what my benchmarks should be so that I can judge if I'm getting in shape fast enough. I can't find information on line about a half (it doesn't sound like that's much of a goal for most people). Am I biting off too much? How do you know?

You should be fine doing 50 miles next March. I started biking when I was incredibly out of shape, after being sedentary for most of my life, and within six months did a 48 mile organized ride. I was 56 at the time. And I wasn't close to doing 14 miles in one hour. My worry was that I wouldn't be able to average 12mph. The organizers of the ride I did recommended that you at least be able to average that speed. A year later on longish rides I am averaging anywhere between 12.5 and pushing up to close to 15 mph, depending on conditions.

[bakoblues]

Thanks, everyone, I feel much better knowing I may not be the only one on the ride who's not 20 in a matching outfit. Think I'm going to stick with riding home from work for now and up it to 2x a week this month, continue jogging at work, and see how it goes in October.

[Sky King]

Thanks, everyone, I feel much better knowing I may not be the only one on the ride who's not 20 in a matching outfit. Think I'm going to stick with riding home from work for now and up it to 2x a week this month, continue jogging at work, and see how it goes in October.

that sounds like a wonderful plan. I am a slow and steady, steady and slow type. 14mph is a great speed!

[lgibster]

[QUOTE=Jude;652204]I've decided to finally do something about my weight and complete lack of fitness. My town has lots of fairly flat hiking and biking trails, so, although I haven't been on a bike since I was a teenager - I'm 39 now - I'm thinking that it might be a good low-impact form of exercise for me.

GO FOR IT!! I was 39 and unemployed. I decided one day to dust off my old MTB from college and go for a ride instead of spending the entire day searching for jobs in front of the computer. I rode 2.6 miles....thought I was going to die at mile .5. I was so sore I didn't get back in the bike for a week or two. But then I tried again. I eventually bought a new MTB, then the best purchase I made was a new "performance hybrid"...I bought a Specialized Vita Elite and I LOVE that bike. I have ridden it for two years. YOU CAN DO THIS. I rode my first "race" this spring 34 mile leg of the Carti Tour de Rock here in Little Rock. I love it so much I rode the 25 mile leg of the famous Hotter'n Hell Hundred in Wichita Falls TX. All those races on the "hybrid". Just start small and you can do it. I haven't lost any weight still a hefty 230 lbs....but I am much healthier as far as my BP and blood work goes. GO FOR IT!! You can do it ..... I did.

[lgibster]

[QUOTE=bakoblues;654700]Where are you all when I ride?! I'm the only chubby cyclist I've ever seen on my local bike path.

I recently decided to try to get into good enough shape to ride a half century for my 50th birthday in March and I'm getting intimidated. I don't really know where to start. I've started riding my bike home from work (about 14 miles) 1 day a week, but I'm SO slow - it takes me an hour. I don't have much time to do long rides; I work nights/shift work, 1800-0600, so I have to ride alone at night on my days off, which limits areas and time due to safety, and I live in an extremely flat area so I can't practice hills. I'm getting in about 20 min rides as fast as I can at nights I don't work and I'm jogging on the treadmill for 30 min on the nights I do work (again, at an absymally slow rate but better than watching TV during break). I'm also chicken about riding in an event with my inexpensive bike, overweight, unmatching gear, and having no idea about the rules, but I'm going to suck that part up and just deal with it. It will be one day of my life with people I will probably never see again so I can get thru that part of it as long as I can finish it.

There is nothing wrong with wanting to ride a half century. I rode my first two races this year (a 34 mile section and a 25 mile section) and it was great. Now I want to do a century. Don't worry about your gear, bike or how slow you are. Have fun and challenge yourself...it is about three things....not have fast you can get there, how well matched you are, or how good your bike looks. For me it was about "Stay upright, have fun, and finish". Go for it. I was glad I did.

I am 41, 230 lbs and ride a "hybrid". Yes I tell my friends.."Warning: Fat chick cycling..momentum kills." Just go for it.

[Amira]

I'm new to the forum as well (good grief, how much have I bought at Team Estrogen without even realizing the forum was here), but I am here to encourage you to get on a bike and start riding. Last year, at 54, the cold reality that I was 40 lbs overweight (mainly around the middle), about to outgrow a size 14, and wasn't doing a darn thing about it hit me. Years of high-stress/sedentary job/eating crap at lunch was slowly killing me.

I drug my old road bike out of the garage, dusted it off (that took awhile), took it for a tune up and started riding. At first, I was huffing and puffing - SLOWLY - around a 9-mile flat loop here in town on the weekends and was probably doing about 9 mph and was exhausted when I was done. I could barely make it up the two 'hills' on the route and I use the term 'hill' quite loosely. My knees would meet my fat middle section when I pedaled. I wouldn't have been caught dead in lycra shorts, much less a cycling jersey and while I stuffed myself into a pair of mountain bike shorts, I had to resort to wearing a dri-fit running T from Target with it because I didn't want to spend any $$$ on bike clothes at that size.

So, I do know where you are coming from.


Don't be intimidated - find a bike that you feel comfortable on and that you will ride. Whether that's a commuter/hybrid or a road bike, the first key is to get on the bike and ride it. Consistently. Buy the best bike you can afford. Tell the bike shop guys what your goals are and your price range.

Fast forward a year....I've ridden about 1200 miles since January. I started going to spin classes during the week, when I couldn't ride after work. I lost 35 lbs. I went from a size 14 to a size 8. I rode by myself when I couldn't find friends to ride with me. I looked for fun organized rides to sign up for (and tried not to be intimidated when I went to many of them on my own) and I worked my way up from those original 10 mile rides to 100k rides. The weekend before last, I met my sister in Lake Tahoe and we did a 72-mile charity ride together. I climbed over 3500 vertical feet, when I used to huff and puff over a slight incline. It didn't happen overnight and it wasn't magic. I rode. Every weekend, I worked on upping my cadence, my speed, my getting out of the saddle to climb that 'hill', I looked for actual hills. I sweated. I learned to change my tires and eventually, to disassemble my bike to pack it in a travel case. I got grease under my nails. I shopped (God love ya, TE, I am overrun in cute bike jerseys now). When my original road bike got stolen 2 months into this project, I could have let it totally derail me, but I didn't.

At 55, I am fitter than I was at 25. I want everyone to have that feeling. I know you can have it. My advice is to pick some crazy goal for yourself on a bike....something you don't think you can do now....whether it's a 100k or full century. Tell people about it. I posted on Facebook last year that I was going to ride around Lake Tahoe and be more aerodynamic doing it. I figured it would be hard to back out if I made it public. And, at times when I didn't think I could do it, I'd go back to that post and re-read my promise.

I had so much fun riding around Tahoe that I'm now considering jumping into a 111-mile ride in Tucson in November. If you would have told me a year ago that I'd be thinking, oh hey, I can go do that, I'd have said you were insane. So, can't wait to hear what your plan is!

[Serendipity]

I'm new to the forum as well (good grief, how much have I bought at Team Estrogen without even realizing the forum was here), but I am here to encourage you to get on a bike and start riding. Last year, at 54, the cold reality that I was 40 lbs overweight (mainly around the middle), about to outgrow a size 14, and wasn't doing a darn thing about it hit me. Years of high-stress/sedentary job/eating crap at lunch was slowly killing me.

I drug my old road bike out of the garage, dusted it off (that took awhile), took it for a tune up and started riding. At first, I was huffing and puffing - SLOWLY - around a 9-mile flat loop here in town on the weekends and was probably doing about 9 mph and was exhausted when I was done. I could barely make it up the two 'hills' on the route and I use the term 'hill' quite loosely. My knees would meet my fat middle section when I pedaled. I wouldn't have been caught dead in lycra shorts, much less a cycling jersey and while I stuffed myself into a pair of mountain bike shorts, I had to resort to wearing a dri-fit running T from Target with it because I didn't want to spend any $$$ on bike clothes at that size.

So, I do know where you are coming from.


Don't be intimidated - find a bike that you feel comfortable on and that you will ride. Whether that's a commuter/hybrid or a road bike, the first key is to get on the bike and ride it. Consistently. Buy the best bike you can afford. Tell the bike shop guys what your goals are and your price range.

Fast forward a year....I've ridden about 1200 miles since January. I started going to spin classes during the week, when I couldn't ride after work. I lost 35 lbs. I went from a size 14 to a size 8. I rode by myself when I couldn't find friends to ride with me. I looked for fun organized rides to sign up for (and tried not to be intimidated when I went to many of them on my own) and I worked my way up from those original 10 mile rides to 100k rides. The weekend before last, I met my sister in Lake Tahoe and we did a 72-mile charity ride together. I climbed over 3500 vertical feet, when I used to huff and puff over a slight incline. It didn't happen overnight and it wasn't magic. I rode. Every weekend, I worked on upping my cadence, my speed, my getting out of the saddle to climb that 'hill', I looked for actual hills. I sweated. I learned to change my tires and eventually, to disassemble my bike to pack it in a travel case. I got grease under my nails. I shopped (God love ya, TE, I am overrun in cute bike jerseys now). When my original road bike got stolen 2 months into this project, I could have let it totally derail me, but I didn't.

At 55, I am fitter than I was at 25. I want everyone to have that feeling. I know you can have it. My advice is to pick some crazy goal for yourself on a bike....something you don't think you can do now....whether it's a 100k or full century. Tell people about it. I posted on Facebook last year that I was going to ride around Lake Tahoe and be more aerodynamic doing it. I figured it would be hard to back out if I made it public. And, at times when I didn't think I could do it, I'd go back to that post and re-read my promise.

I had so much fun riding around Tahoe that I'm now considering jumping into a 111-mile ride in Tucson in November. If you would have told me a year ago that I'd be thinking, oh hey, I can go do that, I'd have said you were insane. So, can't wait to hear what your plan is!

Amira, that is just the best post! You are an inspiration.

[Bike Writer]

Ameria,

What a wonderful and inspiring story. That is sure to motivate a lot of people and give hope to beginners who feel hopless and lost about breaking into cycling.

[Scrappy]

Amira, Awesome inspiring story. I remember the first time making it up the "hill" in the neighborhood for the first time and feeling like a superstar. Fast forward 2 seasons and a 40 mile ride was a nice Sat morning excursion. It doesn't take long once the bug bites, and this addiction is so much sweeter than candy :-)

Scrappy

[Amira]

Thank you, ladies. I am so passionate about the fact that it is never too late to learn to ride and take contol of your health! I want every 50-something woman to feel like she's 25 - without having to resort to botox, plastic surgery or dressing completely age inappropriately.

Getting fit is the real fountain of youth. ;)