MtnBkrBear

And getting older. And fatter. But we persevere, right? 62. Not in the best of health. At least 100 lbs overweight. Looking to get on that bike and...ride. Short distances to start. Longer as I get stronger. OK. Maybe it's all a pipe dream. But if I drop dead while riding the bike I'll drop dead with a smile on my face. Right?

obed7

not a pipe dream at all.... many folks on here with nearly your exact story...
I was a bit older than you when I started back riding and not quite as over weight, I only had to drop 80 lbs...and the first few rides I could only go about 3-1/2 miles and I had to stop and rest before turning around and going home...and like you riding a bike was exercise for me that I actually enjoyed....two sections of the forum that may appeal to your are the over 50 section and the Clydesdale section.... lots of folks in both forums that will speak your language and can offer their experience and advice.

Lucillle

Welcome. There's an over 55 and a Clysedale/Athena forum that can help with particular issues. But you have the basics down, start with short rides and extend them as you get experience, and have fun riding.

TheCharm 

I was a bit younger when I got back on a bike, but was in a similar weight situation.

Like you, cycling was (and still is) the only form of exercise I actually enjoy -- not just tolerate but enjoy the hell out of it. The key is to ride and be consistent. Your legs might hurt, your backside might hurt, but keep on it and before you know it you'll be handling 20+ miles like a boss. You can do it!

10 Wheels

Hey Bear,

Started road riding when I was 65 y/o.

Met a group that did long rides 6 days a week and joined them,

Here I am at the 9,000 mi mark the first year



Happy Safe Miles to you.

qcpmsame 

Welcome aboard, weight loss is a pretty common reason for getting started back in cycling. Another 100lbs + loss here, and cycling played the biggest part in my battle.

Its not too late, you have the right idea about starting off with short distance and duration rides and working your way up. Just don't let off feeling days, or regaining a few pounds get you off-track and discourage you from your goals.

Great to have you join in with us here at Bikeforums.net.

Bill

Wildwood 

I lost 25lbs during a summer hiking for USFS. You near Mt Baker Washington? i've been up near Bellingham a bunch this last 2 years.

jefnvk

My grandmother's neighbor, about the same age as her (late 60's at that point), got into it a few years back. Said she set a goal of a couple miles every day, and by the end of the first year was at 2000 miles, far exceeding her wildest expectations.

If she can do it, anyone can! Just be smart, and discuss it with a doctor what you can realistically handle.

bobwysiwyg

I got into cycling three years ago at age 70. I was overweight about 30 lbs but used it to support quitting smoking. Still not smoking, had set a 2000 mi goal for this year, which I was exceeding easily until 7 weeks ago when I broke my left femur. unrelated to cycling. Can't wait to get back out. But, don't count on cycling alone to lose weight. Also focus on portion control and diet. That's where the weight loss will come from primarily.

DanBF

Hang in there and welcome to the forums!