jesus i could have written that first post. i too find it so tough to get out and cycle. but like that again when i am out i feel i could go forever. i just get high when i am on the bike and think to myself now this is great, i'll do it every day or whatever. next day the couch seems like the better option. i don't know why. maybe its the weather, self-consciousness, laziness, job stress etc. or culmination of all. like i know how good it is for me to get out and i know i will love it when i go out but i find it hard to put these into motivation.

i agree with someone else there that said get a riding buddy. best motivation for me is i don't want to disappoint a friend by not turning up although this hasn't worked so well lately either.

as for calories, you can eat as much as you like if you cycle enough so work on the cycling and diet will follow. don't cut out carbs or sugar because your brain needs them. only restrict sugar if you are diabetic. obviously natural sugars are best so fruit and veg - loads of each. stick with the food pyramid.

Nutrition & Dietary Information | Croi Heart & Stroke Charity

think there is a food pyramid on here somewhere.

some tips for motivation that i use

* get into bike mechanics, buying bits and pieces to upgrade your bike - keeps you interested (i know you said you are unemployed but you can still trawl the secondhand shops and what not)
* photography - bring a camera and show us the scenery
*map reading - get an ordnance survey map of the region and try and mark out a few nice spins
*friends & family - get others involved - a problem shared and all that
*youtube - youtube is great for inspirational videos but don't get hooked like me, i spend more time watching than doing -
*keep us up to date with your progress!!