I smoked 2-3 packs a day for about 18 years and quit over 20 years ago. Instead of cycling, I took up running as my exercise of choice mainly because it was inexpensive to get started and it certainly wasnt time consuming. I could barely run 1/4 mile in the beginning. Two years later I ran my first marathon. I will aways be amazed at the body's healing power and its ability to adapt. I still run, but now cycling is my primary exercise. I like doing endurance races...12 to 24 hours..and I cant imagine doing those as a smoker. Congrats on quitting, and yes, it does get better.