I'm thinking of taking up (bicycle) biking?

Question

I don't get very much exercise so I was thinking of taking up road biking. I don't really know what i'm in for though...i live in a place with lots of big hills and stuff. Also I don't exactly have a road bike. I have a very old bike thats still in good condition, but it's more of a mountain bike. Anyways if anyone has any advice they can give me on biking then i'd appreciate it.

Answer 1

Cycling is a great way to burn calories and can be very enjoyable.  Glad to see you take an interest in it.

I would advise you to make sure that old bike is a comfortable fit for you.  If it is not the right size for you (too big or too small), it might be uncomfortable to ride and may cause aches and pains.

If it is the right fit for you, start off riding around your neighborhood.  Build your endurance with successively longer rides.  Above all, use common sense and ride safely.

Talk to other cyclists and learn more about the different kind of bikes, and develop an idea of what kind of cycling you'd like to do.  Once you really get into it, think about going to a local bike shop and shop for a nice fitted bike.

Enjoy, and good luck!

Answer 2

I would find your budget- head to a well respected bike shop, and buy your bike! You will will love cycling!! Its an awesome way to have fun while burning loads of calories and appreciating nature. You also tend to notice things you woulden't have in a stuffy car. Like birds singing,  flowers, the sky, etc. Its amazing. And you don't tend to mind it, either! Your'e also going to save so much money in gasoline- pretty much anywhere within 5 miles you will WANT to ride there rather than drive.

Just make sure you have good cycling clothes. Mainly the shorts/capris. Make sure they have padding and are gender specific.

Water-make sure your bike has at least one cage secured so for a bottle of WATER- nothing else! ("Sport's drinks such as gatorade, powerade, propel, are loaded with added sugars and food colorings which will give you instant energy but will make you feel depleted and tired soon)

Helmet-you know the deal.

Bike- definately get a women's bike. Try different brands out and ASK someone to help you find the right bike. Do NOT do it on your own.

Take it easy at first. You will find its easier and more fun then you thought it would be so you'll go a little extra. If your body is not used to it then your muscles will go into shock ache for some time (hours-days). Also, really get your sleep in. At least 7-8 hours. Sleep is the time your body is at full rest- the only time it has to fully recharge. This is also the time muscles are healing from the stress of the day and recovering and growing stronger.

Glasses-shields are the best but cost a lot. I just use basic rubber sports sunglasses that do fine. You want these even on cloudy days to protect your eyes from wind esp. and insects.

DEFINATELY get a speedometer with the time and odometer on it (about $20-30). Mine stopped working during my ride the other day and I coulden't stand it because I coulden't tell how fast I was going or how many miles I had gone. I'm so used to it!

Good luck with your new bike! You will absolutely adore cycling. God bless!

Answer 3

Yes this is something to get into you will get healthier and it works on your calfs and hamstrings. it will tone you muscles but it won't turn you "As buff as a bodybuilder" I think you should enjoy it and going down hill is fun but up hill is a lot of work and takes a lot of Practice.

5 year experience Bicylist