Another Novice

[Chris-graham]

Hello all, newbie here, been lurking looking at this site for a while now. And learned LOTS. I was given a mountain bike which has been in the garage for months, so 2 weeks ago out it came. After what seemed like 25 miles (on tarmac!) i had to sit down, (yes, people staring). Later I realised it was 2 miles. I'm overweight, (110kg) extremely unfit, but over the past 2 weeks my mileage has gone to 10 miles, and I'm actually enjoying it. I live in East London and there is a cycle lane (hill) which goes over the north circular. The first few times was like climbing everest, and never made it to the top. After a few attempts I did it, in 1st gear but thats what gears are for right? I'm eating healthier food, going out on the bike 3-4 times a week and wish I'd done this years ago. I'm starting to lose weight but realise it could take a long long time to get to where I want. Next step is to buy a Hybrid bike as not all the rides I do are tarmac, but I ain't going through Epping forest either.
So this is really to say thanks to everyone who has posted on here, you've inspired me!

 

[Danny]

Welcome.

Sounds like a hybrid is a good idea if you are going to be going on the roads a lot. You'll find it much easier to pedal that a mountain bike.

Your doing the right thing by going on regular short rides, and if you keep at it you will find that you will soon be able to build up your mileage. But don't be over ambitious, particularly if you are not used to exercising, just add a mile or so to your route each week.

 

[Noodley]

Bloody hell, another bloody Londoner

Keep it up, sounds like you are heading in the right direction. Well done.

 

[rich p]

Excellent start, mate. We all get dragged deeper into this lark! It gets harder to do it in the cold of winter too!

 

[Angelfishsolo]

Congratulations mate :-) If you keep at it and as others have said build up mileage steadily (without clock watching), use the gears and have fun!!!, you will look back at this post in a few months and realise just how far you have come (and almost certainly you will see your weight drop to double figures). I wish you much enjoyment from you new found interest. Be warned though it is very easy for this lark to become a money pit ;-)