I am trying to kick start a very sedentary lifestyle! Last year I hurt my back very badly & went from an active mom who takes her kids to the zoo, museum, park, etc. 6 days a week to a mom that sits in the front or back yard everyday *watching* my kids play.

I've been walking more starting very recently, but I'm only going about a 1/4 of a mile. I know biking may be a bit easier & my kids would love long rides w/ mom....but at 283 I'm worried about flattening the tires or my ample bottom not fitting on the seat. Any suggestions on style or brand of bike I should look into.....or should I stick with walking until I lose a bit more?

Mountain, cruiser or hybrid bikes would be best. Probably cruiser or mountain bikes would be the most comfortable. You can buy gel seats that will support you and at your weight, flattening the tires shouldn't be an issue. Above 350 is really when you have worry about that.

I am in the same boat as you. My physical therapist wants me to ride a bike as much as I can tolerate. I can only walk about 1/4 myself. Have you thought about a 3 wheel bicycle? I am planning on getting one of those myself, it is safe and you can also get a comfortable seat for it.

Having more than 15 years in the cycling industry, I can say biking is one of the best ways to get fit. No worries, I've sold bikes to men who weigh close to 300 -- you won't flatten the tires. And yes, your butt will hurt especially at first until everything gets used to it. I personally don't like gel or wide saddles for anyone, they can actually cause more harm by creating pressure points. But that being said, I'd get fitted properly at a local bike shop. Not a Wal-Mart, Target, etc. -- those bikes are built by teenage kids and are rip offs from copy-cats with no safety standards. Giant, Specialized, Trek, etc. all good brands that will last a long time and have resale value later. And no you won't make the tires go flat, but you will want to check your pressure before every ride. Ask for a nice recreational bike, nothing too fancy. Good luck!

Thanks for the feedback...very informative!! Can't wait to hit the road rollin'

I have a beach cruiser with a nice sized seat. I love it!