I live in Missoula and have done the Hiawatha Twice.

I think I remember you from another thread.

Did the entirety of Rock Creek Road over two days back in June. Third time back there. Terrific ride.

Just remember that the first 100 yards (or metres if you're so inclined) are the hardest.

I'm waaaaay over the minimum limit to be in this group, and I am still out there riding in the mountains and enjoying it. I'm riding about 25 miles and 2000 feet of climbing pretty much every day and I even managed to eke out a double century a couple of months ago (albeit a flat one).

The key? Remember the 100 yard rule. Just get out there. Don't worry about how fast or how far. It takes a long time to whip yourself into shape, but if you do it right, it is an enjoyable long time.

I have a similar rule but it’s a 3 day rule. On a long tour, the first day is the one that has the greatest temptation to just turn around and go back to the start. The second day is pretty much the same although by the end of the second day, I’m far enough away that to return is a hassle. By the third day, I might as well just carry on and finish the trip.

I did a tour around Lake Erie a few years ago and my first night was on the banks of Lake Erie south of Detroit was damned cold. It hit 22°F and I had a 40°F bag. My truck was parked at the Toledo airport and I was just about ready to go back and make the 2 day drive home. I was starting to pack up and considering my life. I went off to the bathroom, leaving my stuff on the picnic table. Just as I got back to the table, I saw a seagull swoop down and watched as it carried my truck key off into the trees. Unfortunately, the keys to my bike lock were attached. Now I couldn’t go back nor forward. I called a local hardware store that was about 2 miles away and asked if they could send someone out. I even offered to give them $200 for the service. No dice.

I eventually got a fellow camper to give me a ride to and from the hardware store where I bought a bolt cutter ($50) and cut my lock. The decision was made to go forward.

So the universe sent you a message via seagull!

I've been cycling forever, but in recent years, my cycling amount has diminished and last year (2024) was my "worst" year for cycling distances.

But in 2025 (at 58), I decided to build back up again and it has been going amazingly well. I wasn't sure I could improve my fitness level ... improve my cycling speed ... at my age, but it turns out I can.

I'm also learning to swim this year. I didn't learn as a kid on the Canadian prairies and I decided that this year was the year.

Maybe I'll be able to do a short triathlon next year. Who knows!

58? I retired @ 65 and was able to improve my cycling speed and endurance. The last few years on the job beat me down but I was still riding at least on weekends.
When I was 69 I started having irregular heartbeat again and a cardiologist advised me to cool it and stop chasing younger/faster riders. Still, I can ride with the club and do hilly rides @71.

At this age, improvements come slowly and require patience.

I started towards fitness goals about one year ago.

I'm 57, Type 2 Diabetic and need to use a CPAP. My diabetes was getting worse, and worse (using more and more insulin daily).

Decided I did not want to become a statistic, would like to keep all my body parts and would like to see my grandchildren (hopefully).

Started losing weight (down from 280lbs > 235lbs) and started walking 1km > 3km > 5km daily (minimum, now) and at least once per month I'll do a 15km - 20km walk.

Started cycling only recently and feel comfortable being able to put in 20km every few days.

Still working towards losing weight, I'd like to get down to 160lbs - 180lb and about 15% BF (currently around 30%).

I do some strength training, but need to really get back into it more consistently.

For me, it's getting the motivation to actually go outside and walk/ride.

For me, it has to be fun. I've tried a lot of things - many sports, weightlifting, yoga, running, hiking. The only ones that have stuck are the ones I find fun - hiking and cycling.

Many people try too much too soon, beyond what is fun, and quit. Keep it fun, and the motivation will be easier.

So true.. once it becomes a chore, you won't enjoy i and will probably stop doing anything.

I went out again today and did just over 20km and really enjoyed it - so in addition to walking, and strength building I'll add cycling.

Speaking of inspiration, this popped up in my YouTube feed: 70+ Masters 800 meter indoor run. The winner has an amazing kick.