How To Get Into Mountain Biking

The sport of mountain biking is one of the fastest growing sports in the world. Mountain biking is a great way to get outside and enjoy nature, while also getting a good workout. The sport has seen huge growth in popularity over the last decade, with an estimated 20 million people riding mountain bikes around the world.

The first step to getting into mountain biking is finding a bike that fits your needs and budget. There are many different types of bikes that you can choose from, including full suspension bikes for those who want more comfort and durability or hardtail bikes for those on a budget. Once you have found your bike, it’s time to start thinking about gear. You will need to purchase a helmet, gloves, shoes and other protective gear before hitting the trails.

Is mountain biking hard for beginners?

As a general rule mountain biking is easy to learn and hard to master. As a beginner you should focus on the essential skills first and be patient, it takes at least one or two years of riding to master the basic skills needed on trails. The key is to be consistent.^[1]

How long does it take to get in shape for mountain biking?

Because it seems to take about three months to get into proper mountain biking shape and about three minutes to get out of it and because you’ll be hauling up Vail Mountain in the grueling XC Mountain Bike race before you know it (June 9), here are a few tips to help whip you back into bike shape.^[2]

How hard is it to mountain bike?

Just like any form of exercise, mountain biking can be physically challenging especially when you’re just starting out and your muscles aren’t conditioned to riding a bike. As you explore more trails, you’ll also come face to face with features that you can’t fathom ever being able to conquer.^[3]

Is mountain biking easier than hiking?

While cycling burns more calories on harder terrain, hiking burns more during the easier parts. They are both excellent if you want to stay in shape and manage weight. Even though bikepacking tends to be more expensive, you can enjoy both with basic gear that won’t break the bank.^[4]

How many times a week should I mountain bike?

Mountain biking can definitely be classified as a form of aerobic exercise, so with this in mind, if you what to lose weight you should be riding at least three times a week if your riding sessions are 60 minutes.^[5]

Can you lose weight by mountain biking?

Mountain biking is a weight loss option that many people rarely consider. However, it offers many benefits that make it a fantastic form of exercise that can also serve as an equally fantastic hobby.^[6]

How do you train your legs for mountain biking?

Walking Lunges with twist. Lunges are great for developing individual leg strength and work all the muscles used for cycling. Ball pushup. Upper body strength is often a weak point for mountain bikers. Deadlifts (and single-leg variation). Renegade row or TRX row. Side plank drops (with reach).^[7]

Does running help mountain biking?

– Running is probably one of the best types of cardio training you can do in addition to your riding. – For most riders it would actually be better to add in a run each week rather than another ride or bike related cardio. If you are riding 2-3 times a week odds are you don’t need more on bike cardio.^[8]

What skills are needed for mountain biking?

Body position. Braking. Climbing. Descending. Cornering.^[9]

Is mountain biking good for your knees?

Over time, mountain biking can lead to increased muscle strength and endurance. And since strong muscles help protect your joints from injuries, this is good news for your knees, hips, and lower back!^[10]

Why should I start mountain biking?

Mountain biking uses large muscle groups that require a lot of oxygen. This makes the heart work steadily, increasing your heart’s fitness by 3-7%. Mountain biking is a low impact sport, meaning it puts less stress on your joints than other aerobic activities such as running.^[11]

Why do mountain bikers say Yew?

Condensed answer: Mountain bikers say “yew” before a stunt to alert others, relieve pressure, generate more force, and express excitement.^[12]