Much to my disappointment I have gained weight and want to get back to biking to feel better in all ways. I live close to biking trails and most roads are very hilly where I live. I want to start slow but in a way that I will keep it up.Any suggestions to a program???? or etc???

I think:

Your first stop should be a full physical exam. Tell your doctor of your plans in detail.

Next, look at your diet. This doesn't need to be a night-and-day change here. You can try to limit certain things (e.g. Sat Fat) and replace with other things (e.g. fruits/vegetables). Don't go for a diet change to just to lose weight, your emphasis should be what changes you want to make for the rest of your life.

For stone trail riding (like a restored railroad bed), I recommend a Hybrid bicycle. For paved surfaces, a road bike. The road bike may not be the best choice for a first bike, but get some miles under you belt and some fitness. Knowing that you can reward yourself with a new bike is a good motivator to continue.

Start with trail riding (It's a little safer). Get used to wearing a helmet. Don't walk up hills (pull over and rest instead). Having a triple (three chainrings up front) should give you the gearing you need.

Keep it up and by this time next year, those hills won't seem as steep.

Absolutely awesome advice. Recently had a physical so all set there. I do live practically on the restored railroad bed and I love to ride there as its "private." I was fortunate enough to receive an incredible hybrid "cross" bike for Christmas last year. not sure about the 3 gear front thing??? All the components are there for me to do this.........just have to make myself get out there until it becomes a habit. With support like your response I'm going to get there. Thanks ever so much!!!!!!!!!!!

Triples are very good for hills. Ideally you want to spin the pedals rapidly at all times, since that reduces wear and tear on your knees.

One way to motivate yourself is to set a concrete goal. For example, "I want to do a century (100 mile) bike ride next Spring" or "I want to do a one-week bike tour next summer." That way you have a reason to ride on a regular basis.

Depending where you are in eastern,ct (i'm in mansfield now), that triple could be a lifesaver as the hills around here are pretty big time. I can only reiterate what everyone else here has said. See a doc, tell him what you plan to do and see if he can give you any pointers, then start slow and steady and build your way up. Trust me, if you don't you're body will let you know you've gone too far. And set goals that are reasonable so you don't get discouraged if you can't complete them.
good luck with this brother!

This is a picture of a triple.


Here are the pros and cons...

No problem. Keep up the good work. It gets tough to keep rinding over winter, but it helps a lot getting started again in the spring. Whatever you do, do not decide next spring that because "it's too hard" or "I didn't do anything over winter, so I can't do anything now" and give it up. It won't be too late to start then either.

When it's too cold/wet outside, Spin classes are an option. A gym membership may work for you. I think a focus on the cardiovascular exercise is probably the right thing for you.