Looking to get into cycling for cardio

[Jerik1m4]

Hey all,
I tried a search and couldn't find anything.
I've tried walking and running, don't like either.
I remember loving to ride when I was younger
I was never in shape per say, but I'm way out of shape
Now. What I'm looking for is a decent inexpensive bike I can
Use to help start me back on a better fitness track.
Any help is greatly appreciated!

[Voodoo_Man]

Are you going to do outdoor cycling or just get a trainer and ride inside (maybe outside as well?)

Depends on your definition of what an "inexpensive" bike is. The guys at work ride the "newer" Fuji's (http://www.policebikestore.com/Merch...fuji-special08) and those things can get around a month of daily use before you need to do maintenance.

Check Craigslist in your area, maybe you can pick up a nice used Specialized or something of that sort for cheap.

#1 thing is to make sure you fit the bike. Do not buy a bike and try to "make it work."

[An Undocumented Worker]

If you really want a cardio workout, just get a basic mountain bike, a helmet, and ask the local bikeshop where some good trails are.

Just let me warn you, if you actually have fun the first ride, well lets just say you may end up as deep in that sport as you probably are in guns.

The good thing is though that once you have a good bike and have accquired enough skill to not be breaking stuff regularly, the sport is relatively inexpensive to participate in.


And never focus on the object you are trying to not hit.

[Jerik1m4]

Cool I'll look into some of this, I was mostly
Thinking about a mountain bike something
Rugged that I hopefully won't be working on
All the time ala 1911 maintenance. If there is a
Glock of bikes that would be great (well old gen 3
Glock I should say). Another couple questions if I may?
How do I "fit" a bike to me? And should I stay away
From the "walmart" big box store type bike?

[Alan Williams]

Hi fellow Tennesseean! I haven't found a better cardio workout than cycling; it can be a very intense workout. Assuming you're a beginner I recommend a few points.
Get checked out by a doc and make sure your ticker is ready for this.
Go to a good local bike shop, get good quality gear and FITTED for the bike. If you are going to a carbine class wouldn't you be sure to have the proper kit?
Most quality shops have a club or team that rides regularly; join in where your experience/fitness level allows. Group rides are fun, competitive and help push your fitness level.
I ride at least 3 days a week/2-3 hrs a session on both road and mtn since 2002; let me know if you have any other questions.

[J-Dub]

I'd suggest a road bike (but thats what i ride so...). Go to a local bike shop and just test ride some bikes. Do your research on what type hardware you want ect. Get the one you like.

Dont over look a cyclocross bike either.

[Vic303]

1. What type of riding do you want to do? Road or trail?
2. What sort of bike have you ridden in the past?
3. Yes stay far far away from the Chinamart bikes. You can get more bike for less money off Craigslist if you know someone competent to judge a used bike's condition.
4. What is your definition of a long ride? Be realistic here--if you get a mountain bike, you are unlikely to be riding a Brevet or a Populaire...and if you want long distance, you're going to want some sort of road machine.
5. A quality road bike can be durable too--not at all finicky if properly built up. But keep in mind it was designed for pavement--not gravel, not dirt.
6. Road bike gear is different than mtb gear--you'll need a mirror or two, and tail lights and headlights. MTB's don't need the tail lights or really the mirrors if they are NEVER ridden on pavement.
7. Your local bike shop can fit you to a bike properly. It really is important, for your comfort, and your general safety.
8. Spandex....yes loads of folks here love to jeer about overweight folks in spandex, but most of us are NOT svelt 3% bodyfat beasts. Spandex serves a real function to all riders--in addition to muscle support via compression, it serves to dramatically limit chafing. As in chafing yourself raw in places you'd rather NOT chafe!
9. A helmet is essential no matter what or where you ride. Period.
10. If you have any pre-existing medical issues, such as joint problems, arthritis, diabetes, etc, talk with your doctor about starting riding.

[orionz06]

I find cycling for cardio to be harder to do than running. I enjoy cycling more but the rate of speed needed to get what I feel is a decent workout is great than ever expected. A 5 mile run around the block for me does a damned good job, to get what I think is the same cycling I need to extend that to 10-15 miles with some "laps" up a mile and a half long hill 2-3 times.

[J-Dub]

I find cycling for cardio to be harder to do than running. I enjoy cycling more but the rate of speed needed to get what I feel is a decent workout is great than ever expected. A 5 mile run around the block for me does a damned good job, to get what I think is the same cycling I need to extend that to 10-15 miles with some "laps" up a mile and a half long hill 2-3 times.

1. Start implimenting interval training on the bike
2. find a bigger hill

[orionz06]

I do, it just seems easier running than cycling. Even getting outta the seat and sprinting on the bike doesn't seem to match running for me.