I hurt when I don't ride my bike?

MyDogsLoveMe

Is losing weight supposed to hurt? I started riding a bike about 90 days ago to school and work. I ride an average of 6 miles a day, 5 days a week. I have never ridden before, but fell in love with riding my commuter bike. My body is changing as the muscle groups are continually used, and I'm losing weight quicker. I was averaging 1-2 pounds a month, now it is 3-4 lbs a month.
I only loosen up and feel good now on the days I ride my bike. I feel like cycling is the only thing to take away my sore muscles. Any advice or thoughts would help.

whatatime2befit

Losing weight is not causing the pain, but if you are new to biking, that will hurt till your body adjusts

rileyes

You could try warming up your muscles with stretches, foam-rolling, etc. on your non-bike-riding days.

SarcasmIsMyLoveLanguage

Interesting. I have a hip problem that I've been going to physio for and I find that if in having a really sore day, a good hard bike ride loosens me right up. Thought I was crazy lol

rbiss

The same think would happen if you were walking or swimming everyday. You are new to using those muscles and they will get tight and possibly sore. The next day, biking again loosens those muscles up and can help clear out lactic acid. It's the idea behind light activity on your rest days. Biking seems to be working well for you, and you like it so that's great. As you get more conditioned, the weight loss will slow down unless you increase intensity or duration. You will get less sore over time as your body adjusts.

Also, I second the foam rolling. It's fantastic.