new commuter
 

After being back to cycling for one week I did my first commute today (15 mile round trip).
Totally enjoyed it and feel much better on my return home knowing I have actually done some exercise.


Being new to this I wonder if I should try to do a daily commute or add rest days until my strength builds.

It depends on how YOU feel! If you can handle it, ride as much as you can. ;)

Depends on your fitness level. If you enjoy it, do it; your body will adjust. Make sure to stretch AFTER your ride in to work. Do it after you ride home too but especially after your morning commute.

Wish I had a 15 mile RT. I ride 1.5 miles in and meander as much as possible coming home.:D

Don't feel bad if you need to take a day off. Let your body tell you what you need.
Later, when you are use to it, you can push yourself. Then it's REALLY FUN!!!:thumb:

Congrats! I love commuting. My mental health improves as much as my physical.

I judge off days by how I feel. My legs are toast today after 3 days straight and playing wallyball for an hour and a half after work today and then riding th e10 miles home. So, I am driving and replenishing supplies tomorrow. I do try and coincide a day off with bad weather and it is supposed to rain tomorrow so that is good. I will be back at it on Friday.

2nd commute today!!
 

Had a days rest after my first commute and have just completed my
second, in driving rain and a medium headwind.
It was tough but I feel so much better for doing it. I have one short but steep climb at about 4 miles
and I didn't think I would make it today. Just as I was about to quit and walk up it 2 guys
came rolling down the hill towards me. So to keep face I had to dig in and pump my way to the top.
It's amazing that making one short climb can give you such a feeling of acheivement!! am I going mad?

No, not mad.

Well, you may be going mad for OTHER reasons (it's not conclusive evidence :) ), but feeling good about biking is one of the best medicines around.

I could ride to work every day... it's short, just 8 km / 5 mi one way... but riding back might require rest days because it's all uphill.