I know there's no solution to this but to just get on with it, but I need to let it out this morning.
I look like an idiot on my bike. Tracksuit trousers, fluorescent jacket that is slightly too tight now (that is depressing as it used to be huge on me), bike helmet that makes my hair stick out and I feel about twice my age and look stupid. I feel great after I ride to work which takes about 45 mins, and I love the feeling if whizzing along, and of course I change my clothes when I get there, but it's so hard to brace myself in the morning and get it started.
I guess the more I stick with it, the better the stuff will fit etc, but, well, you all know how it can be some days!
Thanks for letting me whinge. xxx

Hi Smurf7 ~

I've just begun cycling, to the beach and back (I really don't know how far it is, but it takes 25 minutes .. actually doing more walking than riding.. lotsa hills!)

I weigh 300-ish (I really don't know, must buy a scale..oh that's going to be embarressing!!) Anyway, I must look so funny riding a bike, I have to laugh at myself, what else can I do?

I KNOW people are looking at me funny, like "omg what is that fat chick DOING?" but who cares? I just started a week ago, I've gone 5 days in a row, going again this evening, and I can already feel a difference (I'm able to get up hills I wasn't able to when I started!)

Cycling is a lot of fun, though, huh? I feel so great once I make it home!

Ren and Smurf let me be the first to congratulate you both on your cycling !! Keep up the great work... You are absolutely right Ren about not caring what others think... Smurf do you think a small person looks any better biking with a helmet? I think not...Someday they will say: "Isn't that, that girl I saw last year, WOW, she looks HOT!! " Keep on keeping on girls!!

*sigh* I can't wait to get on my bike this Spring!

Sometimes we're our own worst critics. How do you know they're not looking at you and thinking, "Well, good for her! Wish I could get my lazy self in gear and start getting some exercise the way she's doing."

A word on the too-tight jacket, though. If it's making you feel self-conscious, can you afford a new one in a larger size? Maybe you could find one cheap at a second-hand store. Even though you won't be needing it very long, still, it's a real boost to your spirits when you're wearing something that fits you well, even just to bike in.

Good for you for cycling! There's one more thing that I'd like to point out if you are still feeling self-conscious about what you are wearing. Have you guys every watched a major cycling race like the Tour de France? Or just watched your local cycling club go out for a group ride? If so, you just can't miss the fact: the more serious cyclists are about their sport the more fashion challenged they appear to be. Grown men wearing skin-tight pink and green spandex at the same time. Outrageous colors and designs. It is part of the sport. Can't be helped. Something happens to the brain cells. Note my own avatar, bright purple jersey, yellow helmet. I would never wear such a thing in 'real' life, and I'm not the most fashion conscious person in the world.

Also, the tightness of the clothing is traditional--keeps it from flopping in the wind and the aerodynamics are much better for riding. If it isn't uncomfortable, it's probably right. Once again, cyclists have few secrets from each other in terms of body shape.

So, in other words, don't worry. You're fitting right in.

Seriously, it is a great sport or just a nice form of exercise. Keep it up!

Anne