little step's.

[tappers]

i have recently purchased a new hybrid bike, as a form of exercise now i'm retired, i've been out on it a few time's last week, and i'm finding it hard work, i'm not going to far from home on it to be honest, cycling really make's my lower leg's ache, i have not cycled for around 50 odd years, a mate of mine advised me to do a little at a time and build up the distance i cover. In my early years i used to cycle every where. I'm finding it a little frustrating !!!

 

[Pblakeney]

Your mate is correct.

little steps​

 

[gbb]

Yep, I remember being there. Build some very basics, it takes as long as it takes. You'll suddenly find that distance you were doing with difficulty...was easy and you'll want to add a bit more, and so on.
Also, I'm 66 and don't generally ride anymore and still find it a bit 'sad' to think what I was capable of, but are no longer, that's quite natural

 

[ebikeerwidnes]

Yes - little at a time

I didn;t ride much over the winter - illness and bad weather then generally just out of the habit

when I started a few months ago I had my ebike (yes I know - but whatever) in a higher power assist so I could even get to the normal shorter places
now I am managing the old rides again - but my legs are aching the next day

still worth it
things get better as your legs get used to it

 

[vickster]

Is your saddle the right height?
Maybe give your calves, other leg muscles and lower back a stretch after riding

 

[gbb]

Is your saddle the right height?
Maybe give your calves, other leg muscles and lower back a stretch after riding

Saddle height, bang on. If it's too low, you'll probably find your thighs burning.

 

[ebikeerwidnes]

Saddle height, bang on. If it's too low, you'll probably find your thighs burning.

Thighs are fine - it is the lower legs that are bad
although that may be due to new trainers being a bit too tight
I have a problem with my feet where laces being too tight causes problems which cause me to walk differently which affects the leg muscles and

well - it all goes bad and I end up walking witha stick

main problem I have is breathing (asthma)
and if anything my saddleis too high - if I am not careful I fall off if I stop and the ground is not level - anyhigher and I would fall!

basically I was so excited to get the bike (long story - but previous one had to be returned) that I just jumped on and rode it
by the time I thought to check it I was used to it!!!
which is not the recommended way of setting the saddle height