5 easy ways to begin mountain biking

Mountain biking is a popular sport for many reasons. It’s a thrilling way to explore nature, whilst providing a full-body workout! If you’re looking to blow off steam and get closer to your surroundings, mountain biking is the perfect way to add some adventure to your life. Here are five easy ways to get into the sport.

Start Spinning

If you’re eager to start mountain biking, but you’re concerned about your fitness levels, try spinning first. Although mountain biking is a fun way to explore your natural surroundings, it is also an intense aerobic exercise, so it’s important not to push yourself before you’re ready. The last thing you want is to get stuck in the middle of a trail and find that you’re too tired to cycle back, so take your time and build up to the longer routes gradually.

Join a Group

The best way to get motivated is to practice with others. While mountain biking is undeniably fun, it is also challenging at times, and you’ll need someone there to cheer you on when the going gets tough. Try enlisting your friends or spouse in the activity or join a biking group in your area. Sites like HulaHub.com connect individuals with classes and sporting events happening locally, so signing up for free is a great way to find fitness buddies.

Invest in Equipment

Once you’ve committed to mountain biking, you’ll need to invest in a good quality bike and safety equipment. You’ll need an appropriately sized mountain bike for your height and build, and you’ll want to check out the different styles and suspension options. It’s best to head to your local bike shop or seek advice from an expert before you make your first purchase, as the wrong bike for you will be uncomfortable and inefficient to ride. Remember to also buy a properly-fitting helmet, gloves and shin and arm guards to protect you in the event of a crash.

Come Prepared

Mountain biking and the environment it happens in can be hard on the body, so make sure you come prepared. Pack a bag that includes two bottles of water, plasters, extra socks, rain gear, a pump, spare inner tube and a puncture repair kit. When you head out on a long ride, you need to be prepared for the worst to happen, and you don’t want to learn this the hard way. Make sure you plan rest stops into your journey and take time to refuel, especially when you’re still new to the sport.

Learn the Rules

Take time to learn the rules when you join a biking community; you don’t want to be the one who gives mountain bikers a bad reputation. Start with beginners’ trails at first, and make sure you’re aware of other riders, pedestrians, and animals around you. You can even walk the trails first to familiarise yourself with the settings before getting on your bike. Learning to ride is challenging at times, but once you’ve learned the ropes, you could well be in for a whole new way of life.