Looking for Newbies with a large amt of weight to lose..

[sundial]

How do you measure your body fat? I am a member at the local Y and they do not offer that but yet tell me the small scales that I can buy are not very accurate and can't tell me where to get an accurate test done.

Lady, I have a Tanita scale that measures both weight and body fat. You can find this scale at Bed, Bath and Beyond, Linens N Things, and maybe even Target.

As for my weight, it's still pretty much the same but I'm losing body fat--only at a slower pace.

I am reading the Chris Carmichael's Food for Fitness and he states that during riding season you don't really lose weight if you eat enough to stay properly fueled for riding. He suggests 200 cal/hr on the bike to keep the engine fueled. If you do follow a reducing diet during cycling season, you may end up compromising your performance on the bike. Before I read this, I noted that this was true in my situation. When I cut back calories to reduce the weight, I didn't have enough get up and go for the bike. What I plan on doing in the off season is join the local Fitness Bootcamp and maybe shed the pounds through light weights and aerobic exercise. I'll also train different muscle groups so that I don't set myself up for an overuse injury.

[karenv2]

Hi I was so happy to see that there are other woman cyclists out there who have a lot of weight to lose. I need to lose 100lbs and have started cycling. I love it but I don't feel to cool.
I got a cruiser bike that is incrediably comfortable but not fast. I have a back injury and need to get a bike that didn't aggrivate my back pain.
I am excited to see that others share my adventure.
Good Luck and Enjoy the ride

Karenv2

[Tuckervill]

Welcome to the forum, Karen. There are lots of Karens here.

It's good to have a bike that works for where you are. You will find, as you get more fit, that you will be capable of more things, and will eventually need a new bike. That's not all bad!

I met a very large woman this weekend who told me she did 42 miles on her Townie not too long ago! Anything is possible. (which reminds me...check out littlechanges.com).

Karen, as well

[LoriO]

Welcome Karen!!! Just keep peddaling!!! Before you know it you will find yourself going farthur and farthur with each ride, and also suddenly you will realize...hey these pants don't fit anymore...WHOOO HOOOOOO.

It is a great feeling.