I learned how to ride a little over 11 months ago and this summer was riding like a mad woman Rode over 100 miles a week, got to where I was doing 50-60 mile rides and longer every weekend, which when combined with strength training and spinning classes I was doing a lot of work.

My body certainly has changed a great deal, in looks even more than the 55 pounds that I lost + something like 6 sizes in clothing - though that is hard to tell with the vanity sizing that is in so many stores. Even at the height of my long distance riding this summer when my weight became stable, I continued to loose body fat and toned. I have never had a butt in my life, but I do now Well.....it is still flat but it is TONED flat

It is important to have a well rounded set of physical activities - good for the body and soul. Also important to make sure you work in appropriate rest and recover times

In a nut-shell, you don't have to ride 500 miles a month to see improvement, what matters is consistency and being well rounded/balanced. Keep in mind that the longer you are on the bike, then you are going to build those leg muscles - love those leg muscles However muscle weighs more than fat, so after a certain point I think it is better to pay attention to how clothes fit, not what the scale says.

Just my 2 cents worth, I've only been riding for a season that ended early due to over-use injuries - but you have found a website where there are a large number of very wise women with a lot of experience.