Anyone else feel this way?

[Denise223]

Hi Everyone!

I really, really enjoy riding -- my husband and I just started on June 5th. Up until that time, the only riding I did was in parking lots. That's because I was PETRIFIED of traffic - big cars, Mack trucks, etc....

Thankfully, I've gotten over that, for the most part. We moved on to a bike path, and now we're actually on the road . (that is, when it's not raining out here ). I'm grateful to this site and also a few people here who have shared some links with me regarding 'safe riding'.

Here's the thing -- sometimes, when I'm riding up a hill, it does take me awhile, and I'm huffing & puffing my way up the hill (mind you, they're not BIG hills....they are long & rolling though)... There are lots of cyclists out where we ride, and of course, they constantly pass me.
I certainly don't mind that they pass me - they're faster & more experienced riders....

I am overweight - I'd like to lose about 50 pounds. (I am 100 pounds less than I was in 2001 ).
I guess I'm just embarrassed about looking like I'm having a very difficult time getting up a hill. (I don't just "look" like I'm having a tough time, I really am).
But, it really is getting easier!!

I don't know WHY I even care what other people think??!! I am very proud of myself for getting out there & riding in the first place. It reminds me of when I was a very obese teenager & getting horribly made fun of.

I SHOULD be out there during the day, by myself, riding....but, I feel more comfortable when my husband and I are out together. Of course, I love going out & enjoying rides with my husband !

That will be my next goal -- going out for a ride by myself, AND feeling good about it!! I'll have to work on that one .

Thanks for listening!!!

Denise