Bicycle NSV's

I took up cycling after having my VSG 6 years ago, since I hate running. This year, I completed my 5th ride in El Tour de Tucson, I did 50 miles in just under 4 hours' rolling time (plus a few breaks). My legs could probably have handled another 50 miles, though my butt was 100% DONE when we crossed the finish line, LOL!

Now that the race is finished, I'm going to switch back to gym stuff on Saturday mornings in preparation for the upcoming roller derby season starting in January. Can't slack TOO much on the cycling, though, as I'm doing a triathlon in May, and might try to do a century ride (100 miles in one day) this coming March.

Congratulations! I was unlucky enough to get stuck in traffic due to the detours put in place for the event. Ina Rd was a nightmare. I had a couple of friends biking in it as well. I applaud anyone who can do that for more than a few miles especially when it starts getting into NW Tucson where there are a lot of inclines and hills.

Congrats!! That is so amazing, and inspiring! Your smile says it all.

Awesome job!!

Our peers should take note of your awesome example and find exercise that they will enjoy doing. I truly believe it's the only way to sustain motivation.

Exercise is not overly important in our weightloss journey, but it is, and should be, an integral part of our decision to maintain our good health for a lifetime.

Adaptation is essential, as any older veteran will tell you. I've gone from running and gym rat to avid walker/hiker over the last 15 years and we all need to acknowledge and prepare for how we are going to change in the long term.

Congratulations, SparkleKitty, you are an inspiration!

Fabulous point! I've tried many times to start running, but I absolutely HATE it. Whereas with cycling, I actually look forward to getting my bike out, getting some sunshine, having time with my dad and my kiddo (I have a bike trailer that my 4yo rides in!), etc.

I feel the same way about swimming. Most of the time, it's something fun, I like the relaxation of being in the water and having some "me" time in the pool while my kiddo plays at the gym daycare. I may not be the best swimmer, but I don't suck either, and that definitely helps.

Thanks friend!

I totally agree. Exercise should be something that you want to do, & it can take time to find something you like & look forward to doing. Also adjusting our routine as we age is something to consider too. I could never get into running but I do love my biking outside.

Congrats! I'm so opposite when it comes to biking- I don't feel like I'm in control of myself on a bike. What do you think of spin classes? While I don't love them- I could take that over outdoor riding.

I've done a couple of spin classes and they actually weren't that bad. It was nice to have control over the resistance on the spin bike, as opposed to being at the mercy of how flat/hilly my bike path is on an actual ride.

I think the control of biking has to come with practice. During El Tour, there were a couple of ridiculous downhill sections where I hit over 30mph, maybe even 35. If I'd done that five years ago, I would have been riding the brakes all the way downhill! But feeling comfortable with the momentum helps a lot.

Great job! I would consider a bike, but only if they could put a seat from a barcalounger on it. No way I'm sitting on one of those tiny seats.