Noticeable changes since you started?
As I was riding home last night, I was thinking about how different I felt from even three weeks before, when I got my new bike. I had been out a couple of times prior to that, but the MN winter had kept me indoors and fairly sedentary until that point. I thought it might be fun to share some things we've noticed as new riders.
1. I am more awake during the day.
2. I sleep through the night, and I sleep well.
3. My legs feel stronger, more powerful.
4. I can breathe! When I was riding the first week or so, I'd get to the top of a hill and really feel like I was suffering to catch my breath. I noticed yesterday that my breathing was consistently nice and even, even when my thighs were burning as I worked my way up hills.
5. I am perkier/more positive during the day.
6. I'm proud of myself!
7. My DH is proud of me!
8. I am more conscious of what I eat. I fin myself asking if it will be good fuel for my ride.
9. I've gotten to know parts of town I had never seen before.
10. I am skipping the coffee shop because I'd rather have another jersey or pair of shorts than a latte. (So I make my coffee at home instead!)
Just a start.
Like the way my girls look at me!
All of those mentioned above are true for me too. One thing I have noticed is the way my girls look at me.
I have always been an athlete but within the last four years my priorities have changed.
I am now a mother to two girls. The athlete side of me has taken a backseat, three pregnancys in four years. (miscarried) I am finally getting "myself" back and that important for my girls to see.
I love the way my daughter looks at me as I get ready for a ride "going for a ride Mom?" She beams and can't wait until she can join me. I love telling her stories of the wildlife and things I see while out on the road.
It is a lifestyle that I think is important to pass on to her and her sister. I think they see that getting out and excercising makes you feel better and happier.
My 3 1/2 year old has her first road run this sunday... its only 240 yds but she got a t-shirt and a race number. She is so proud and ready to pin that number on Sunday morning. I can hardly wait!
Those are the changes that make it so worth it!
Noticeable changes -- hmmm.....
I think there there is less inner thigh flesh wobble.
Legs are definitely much stronger.
Look forward to the ride to work.
Take the long way home from work just for fun.
Can use a higher range of gears without a struggle.
Get landscaping ideas from gardens I pass.
Enjoy the country air and quiet when riding out of town.
Feel more energetic and enthusiastic about everyday boring tasks after a ride.
Hop off my bike thinking I have just negated the corn chips I consumed the night before - less guilty.
Continually thinking about the next ride and when I can squeeze it it.