Introductions - Returning to the bike at last!

Hi all

Just thought I would say hello before I start using the forum.

I have decided to get back on the bike after a 12month break! I got out of breath walking the 6 flights up to our office yesteday and enough is enough!

Advice on getting back without hurting myself too much would be appreciated.
Thinking of going on the stationary trainer for a bit if I can take the boredom! and then a few short easy rides over the christmas break from work to ease myself back in!

john

Hi all

Just thought I would say hello before I start using the forum.

I have decided to get back on the bike after a 12month break! I got out of breath walking the 6 flights up to our office yesteday and enough is enough!

Advice on getting back without hurting myself too much would be appreciated.
Thinking of going on the stationary trainer for a bit if I can take the boredom! and then a few short easy rides over the christmas break from work to ease myself back in!

john

~Don't base your first rides on miles - use time in the saddle.
~Increase your time out there slowly, not too much too fast
~Spin lower gears than you think are the right ones.

I am a charter member of "the Old guys who get Fat in the Winter" cycling team. I generally go through a rude awakening every Spring. And I have found the above hints to be helpful in my own situation.

What I will usually do when I first get back on the bike is limit my rides to the point at which I break that first sweat. Then I spin home. I try to ride at least 3 times a week for 40 to 50 minutes for the first 4 weeks. And then I will gradually increase my time out there and the frequency.

Of course, this Winter I have plans to ride right through. So far, I have been able to maintain some of my summer fitness and keep the gut somewhat under control. But riding through Winter takes dedication that I may run out of by the end of January.

Thanks

Good advice, will have to take it easy, too much too soon will put me back weeks and defeat the object!

Welcome John,

I agree that slow and steady is the way to go. Be sure to put in at least a couple of rest days a week so that your muscles can recover from the exersion.

Say hello to Paul and Ringo for me. :p

When you stop getting sore,increase your ride.

Try swimming also to build up your cardio stamina, during the winter months I tend to switch to swimming as my main exercise.

Brendan J..........

Thanks Brendan

Swimming is my main exercise anyway over the past 2 years, great for the winter!

Mac