Thank you all for your suggestions, support, and encouragement. I have been hurting so badly yesterday and today that I honestly wouldn't even consider riding or exercising, so I guess that's good. I'm in a "just give me the vicodin" frame of mind today. But you guys gave me some good suggestions to try when I'm not hurting. And the stories of your accidents really do make me feel better, oddly enough. I don't feel like such a clutz now, lol.

The funny thing is, I fell about 12 miles in to my 30+ mile ride. I knew I'd be bruised, but I got up, pushed the pain aside, and did the rest of the miles, up hills and all. Then I did the tourist thing for the next two days, going sightseeing, sailing. I came home and rode 2 more 14 mile rides that week but I noticed my breathing was more labored and my side more painful. I was even more uncomfortable going into the second week. Now I can't sleep, because only 1 side doesn't hurt and when I have to turn I wake myself up. The thought of pushing it by riding too soon, and possibly landing on this rib just makes me cringe. So all of you who are warning me to be careful of re-injury I think speak wisely.

I like the idea of a trainer, are they really that noisy? I can certainly understand the boredom. Perhaps a short term gym membership for pool use and leg machines would work too, if I can motivate myself to go. I really am encouraged now to rest the rib, but consider alternative exercise. I think that working around my discomfort is going to be the key, as several pf you have said.

Sarals, that accident sounds pretty bad! How did it happen? And Neil, I read about your crash on the forum.