The Surprising Thing That Happened After I Lost 80 Pounds (Yes, Really)
I’m a 70-year-old long-distance cyclist. Years ago, when I started cycling seriously, I was well over 270 pounds. Over time — and mile after mile — I worked my way down to 188 pounds.
And something happened that I honestly did not expect:
It looked like my penis got longer.
Before you roll your eyes — no, I’m not claiming a miracle. This is not a “magic cycling secret.” It’s just one of those practical, real-world body changes that a lot of men notice after significant weight loss.
Why This Happens (The Practical Explanation)
Most men carry some fat in the lower belly and pubic area — whether we like to admit it or not. When you gain weight, some of that fat can build up around the base of the penis. Nothing is “smaller.” It’s just that part of the shaft becomes buried in soft tissue.
Lose the weight, and that previously hidden portion becomes visible again. No enhancement required — just less tissue in the way.
Doctors often discuss this under the umbrella of “buried penis” (sometimes casually called “buried penis syndrome” online). In many cases, weight loss can make a noticeable difference in appearance because you’re simply uncovering what was already there.
What I Noticed Personally
I didn’t lose weight for that reason. I lost it because I wanted my health back — and because cycling gave me a way to do it that didn’t feel like punishment.
But when the belly shrank, things looked different in the mirror. It was a strange, honest surprise — and it came with something else I did expect: more confidence and a better relationship with my own body.
Why This Matters (It’s Not Just Vanity)
This isn’t really about bragging. It’s about recognizing that weight loss changes your body in ways you might not anticipate:
- Comfort improves: Less belly can mean less chafing and less “crowding” on the bike.
- Confidence improves: Feeling better in your skin has ripple effects — in daily life and relationships.
- Health improves: More energy, better mobility, and often improved blood pressure and blood sugar markers.
If you’re on a weight-loss journey — especially after 50 or 60 — don’t be surprised if your body surprises you right back.
FAQ: Weight Loss, Cycling, and “That” Change
Does weight loss actually increase size?
Not in the sense of “growing new tissue.” What changes is visibility. Losing fat around the lower belly and pubic area can reveal more of what was already there.
Is this common?
It’s more common than most guys talk about. Many men notice appearance changes after losing significant weight — especially if belly fat was a major issue.
Does cycling cause problems down there?
Cycling can cause numbness for some riders if the bike fit is off or the saddle is wrong. A proper fit and a pressure-relief saddle matter. (If you’ve ever dealt with numbness, don’t ignore it.)
Does this mean better performance?
Sometimes confidence improves, and overall health often improves — which can help. But the big takeaway is that weight loss can improve many systems at once, including circulation, energy, and body comfort.
📉 I track my progress with the RENPHO Smart Scale. This was the total game changer that I needed. I bought this scale while I was at a weight plateau that I just could not bust through. This scale started giving me the information that motivated me to break through that plateau and lose an additional 17 pounds to get down to my lowest riding weight in years. Check it out. It is not much to pay for something that really helps.
🥤 After rides, I’ve found protein within 30 minutes helps curb appetite and supports recovery. I used to drink chocolate milk, but now I drink Premier Protein Shakes because I can get 30g of protein with only 1g of sugar (plus vitamins/minerals). The link goes to the flavor options — my favorite is chocolate.
Ride smart, track results — and let the bike do more than just spin wheels.
— Bruce | The Old Guy Bicycle Blog
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