So I asked for a bicycle for Xmas to get into shape b/c quite honestly, I do not like running. Can anyone point me to a website or even offer there own personal advice on some good beginer routines on cycling.
What do you want to know? I cycle (downhill and road) and am training to race downhill. What sort of riding do you want to do? What sort of bicycle did you ask for? I can talk for hours, so let's get started.
Pick a time of day that you can get out and ride for a few miles or more then stick to a routine that you choose. Start off with a few miles then go longer , not faster. Bikes are better on the knees than running as well, good choice for many health reasons.
"beginner" routes should be flat and relatively short, about 2 miles. your body will let you know if you are overdoing it or not. if you cycle daily you will soon be able to tackle longer routes. i gradually increased my route to where i was cycling a 15 mile route 2 or 3 times a day. i found i liked to ride bicycles. get a headlight for your bike, the kind that produces a bluish light. the "white" kind will give you vision problems at night.
I got one piece of advice...get in shape...well there are a few ways, well try swimming and running till it BURNS AND HURTS. Get a gym membership and use the stationary bikes there.
Get a really comfortable seat with jel in it that fits your behind. A sucky seat is a real pain in the @$$. Gloves with wrist straps keep my hands from going numb on longer rides. Limber before and after, leg cramps suck. If you're pushing yourself hard and are sore afterward, take ibuprofen if you can and sleep in sweatpants. Charlie horse cramps are not a fun way to wake up. Bah! Please Register or Log in to view the hidden image! This thread is from 2009! Elte...Please Register or Log in to view the hidden image!
Use the sidewalk, and a helmet http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&....,cf.osb&fp=6f87742b48507fa0&biw=1035&bih=672
don't ride your bike on the sidewalk, for 3 reasons. it's rude to pedestrians. it's illegal in some states, mine is one of them. riding your bike from one sidewalk across the street to the other sidewalk on the next block is a great way to get nailed by a car. speaking about cars, ride with the traffic not against it. basically follow the same rules and laws for automobiles.