I did not learn how to ride as a child, so at 50 years old am finally learning how to ride my new bicycle for two reasons - health and fitness. Having some fun along the way is a great attraction as well

Right now I am in the parking lot stage - last week I just practiced starting/stopping, and rode in circles. Now it seems time to broaden my practice horizons... someone has suggested that I practice figure eights, are there other things that it would be good for me to practice? While I do have an instructor, I won't be meeting with her until we get a warmish break in January.

Practicing alone in a deserted parking lot seems to make me a little more cautious than I might be with an instructor - but considering my tendency to push myself this is not actually a bad thing. 50 year old bones aren't as flexible as the average 10 year old - but I figure the quicker I can increase my skill, then the odds of falling over just to fall over is decreased.