Originally Posted by
thechoux
My schedule is tight, so most mornings, I'll only have time for about 30 minutes of riding. I typically do between 6 and 12 miles (give or take), some gentle hills, some gentle downhill, some sprints, a little cruising. It gets the heart going, the legs working, but doesn't kill me. At the weekend, I can typically venture further afield and undertake 20 miles or so.
Is this decent exercise for moderate weight loss and getting in shape for perhaps trying some short road races?
Good for fitness and getting in shape. It will also help with weight loss, but don't expect dramatic overnight results. Even with an HRM and a training regimen (which I will yield substantial benefit), this is not nearly enough to get in race shape unless you are born with unnatural talent. However, riding is much more fun than training. Stick with your ride for now and enjoy the benefits.