There are many ways to exercise and biking is certainly one of the best. But I had never tried mountain biking before, let alone even heard of it. Mountain biking, I discovered, does not always take place on a mountain, but rather on rough terrain where there are rocks, logs, hills, mud, and other obstacles. Since bears or mountain lions aren’t necessarily lurking in the background, I think I that could be a definite plus.
Perhaps mountain biking for beginners is a better title of this post. And I want to share just a few of the things I have learned as a beginner about this intriguing hobby. First of all, it’s a great workout! Does your cardiovascular system need tuned-up? This activity will surely do that for you as well as strengthen the muscles in the legs, among others. I will leave you exhausted early on if you let it.
Interested? You will need an actual mountain bike, also called ATB for all-terrain bike. It usually has a rigid frame, 26 inch rims and tires that are wide and wobbly. Most also come with front wheel suspension and a variety of speeds. Be sure to also obtain a mountain bike helmet, as spills in this type of riding can be more frequent and dangerous than a walk in the park. I have a few bruises to prove that.
When first starting out, it is a good idea to find (please do!) a certified mountain biking trail. Choose a simple trail to start off that is relatively flat (you can Google places). Find a buddy if possible who either has some experience himself/herself or shares the same enthusiasm for this challenging sport. Again know that this is doing wonders for your body. You are burning anywhere between 10 and 16 calories per minute (600-1,000 calories per hour), so it’s easy to shed the pounds. If you would like to add to that amount, just try adding some leg weights to your riding.
One other word of advice: it’s best to take it slow. Like all things, when we take it slow, it’s usually for the best. This means rides of only 15 to 20 minutes initially. Try to appreciate the scenery around you and the beauty of nature before your eyes. You may find this a spiritually lifting experience and one that can take you away from the noise and hurry of everyday life.
For me the experience is physically invigorating, but I also enjoy being in nature. That appeals to me perhaps more than anything. If you haven’t tried this different type of a bicycle ride, please do yourself the favor. You will meet new people and perhaps discover a new you.
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