Have hit a dead end

Well, I'm certainly not the authority but a few thoughts: 50 miles per week is not very much although if you're not enjoying it that much it may seem like a lot. It sounds like you are riding with your husband and he is stronger than you are, that can be frustrating too.

I would suggest trying to find a group to ride with who are close to your own speed, maybe just a little bit faster than you are. Sometimes it takes some searching and test rides to find the right bunch. You will find that the camaraderie makes all the difference in the world. After that the only answer is to ride a lot. The enjoyment will come back, you will lose weight, and eventually you will be able to keep up with your husband. But dont give up, we need you out there!

As has been mentioned, 50 mi per week is not very much now that you're a year into your routine. Your fitness has probably plateaued because of your relatively low volume, and now that the weight is coming back, the hills are starting to grow (if you know what I mean).

I know it's hard to hear when the motivation is waning, but you're going to have to ride more to keep your fitness improving and to burn the extra calories that you're adding back into your diet. Riding with a group is great advice to keep it fun, and another thought is to mix up the intensity a bit to try to keep things interesting. 1-2 nights a week you might try some shorter, higher intensity rides (including hills), and then go for longer, slower rides on weekends or with the group. Ride in the places that are fun for you. Don't always do the same loop, or the same speed.

If your husband's fitness is starting to outdistance yours, there's always tandem bikes. 🙂

I found that it is quite easy to over compensate with eating when you cycle. This is especially so when you finish your ride and feel hungry. Think about what you eat after a ride; fruit rather than cake is a good generalisation.
Frenchyge hit the nail on the head - shorter more intensive rides, longer less intensive rides.
Dont give up!

Find one hour every day and ride. If you are an average rider you will be able to get 15 miles in during that hour. At the end of the week you will have doubled your current average. If you are eating right the pounds will come off and you will get stronger. To do this you need to enjoy the entire cycling experience.... The fresh air, the exercise and the really good feeling you have after a really good workout. Good luck.

Thanks for all the encouragement you all give. After reading all your replies, I really don't plan on giving up, I do love the cycling experience. I will try to find a group also. Thanks for the encouragement.

ladyicon said:

Thanks for all the encouragement you all give. After reading all your replies, I really don't plan on giving up, I do love the cycling experience. I will try to find a group also. Thanks for the encouragement.

As per your thread title, you realize that you have not hit a dead end. You have only just begun!

So read, get information, learn. Increase duration and intensity slowly. Take it easy if you are tired, go hard and long if you feel good. Have fun!