Returning to cycling in my 50's

[Herbie]

Hi

My first post having joined the forum.
I'm 52 and decided to get into cycling mainly to get fit I'm 19.5 stone and really unfit.
I decided to get a road bike a Bianchi via Nirone7 using the cycle to work scheme which was delivered this week. I don't drink or smoke but as I stated unfit.
I'm thinking of joining a local cycle club as I have two to choose from in the Warrington area but I'm nervous of making myself look a fool plus I wouldn't want to hold anybody back on a ride with me lagging at the back. But the idea of cycling with a group developing a friendship with other cyclists and riding in a group appeals to me.
I'm asking for some views please. I don't want to be a nuisance and a burden to other cyclists.
Thanks

I,ve no experience of riding in big groups but I expect a decent cycling club will have different groups depending on your ability etc and wouldn't see you being a burden....go and enjoy

 

[davdandy]

Hi Tank.

I too am 52 and ride with our local group https://www.facebook.com/groups/leighrevolution/?ref=bookmarks .Sadly i have been injured this year so not done too much but normally we ride on Sundays and midweek if work and weather permits.We have no fees or rules,just a bunch of like minded folk who love to ride our bikes.Extremely informal,we do not go by any rules so anything goes.

 

[RichardB]

You're among friends here! I cycled regularly from the age of about 8 to about 30, but then children came along and motorised transport seemed a better option. I piled on the weight (I was never slim) and lost all my fitness. I started cycling again this April at the age of 61. Four times a week - work and back two days out of four (I work 12-hour nights). Because of the distance to work (a hilly 13 miles each way) I got an electric bike, but I still get a good workout. I stared eating better at the same time (cut out sugar and processed food, kept an eye on calories) and so far I have lost over 3½ stone and am feeling much better. My fitness has improved beyond measure, and cycling again has literally changed my life. I am continuing to use the electric bike for the commute (it's fast and I arrive as a fully-functioning human) but I have now refurbed my mountain bike and bought a Dawes road bike and I am using those at weekends and gaining fitness that way. I plan to sell the ebike and use the ordinary bikes full time probably early next year. Just get out there as often as you can and put the miles on. Start modest and build gradually, and remember that if you are building fitness then rest days are just as important as exercise days. The body needs to recover. I can't speak about clubs, though. Every club I have joined, I have ended up leaving - I just don't think I am a clubby person. But occasional rides with a friend or partner are very pleasant.

 

[GuyBoden]

Well Done.

I'm 51 and live in South Warrington and have just got back on an old Raleigh Road bike a few months back. There are some nice rides from the South Warrington area, such as Arley Hall, Tatton Park, Dutton Locks, Delamere Forest and Dunham Massey park. (Over the top of Frodsham hill is on my list, but only when I'm fitter.)

The Pennine Trail from Grappenhall to Dunham Massey is an easy ride and avoids traffic, it's a good route to get really familiar with your bike.
http://www.transpenninetrail.org.uk/

Just take it easy, stay safe and enjoy the ride, if you're interested in an easy ride out (20 miles?) on a dry day, Pm me and let me know.

 

[Tank63]

Well Done.

I'm 51 and live in South Warrington and have just got back on an old Raleigh Road bike a few months back. There are some nice rides from the South Warrington area, such as Arley Hall, Tatton Park, Dutton Locks, Delamere Forest and Dunham Massey park. (Over the top of Frodsham hill is on my list, but only when I'm fitter.)

The Pennine Trail from Grappenhall to Dunham Massey is an easy ride and avoids traffic, it's a good route to get really familiar with your bike.
http://www.transpenninetrail.org.uk/

Just take it easy, stay safe and enjoy the ride, if you're interested in an easy ride out (20 miles?) on a dry day, Pm me and let me know.

Never thought about the Pennine way, not far from me. So thanks for that and thanks for the offer!

 

[rfmullig]

I just turn 51 and also just got back into cycling. I have been constantly active in other sports, but really miss this great sport. I just bought a new bike and have been loving getting out for some late summer rides. Can't wait dor the fall color rides.

 

[Tank63]

I just turn 51 and also just got back into cycling. I have been constantly active in other sports, but really miss this great sport. I just bought a new bike and have been loving getting out for some late summer rides. Can't wait dor the fall color rides.

I would imagine there are some lovely riding scenery in Michigan!