MOUNTAIN BIKING 101:
THE MOST FUN YOU'LL EVER HAVE EXERCISING

Beginner Mountain Biking - If you’re a beginner mountain biker, you’ll want to get some practice on relatively easy trails with smaller hills and smoother terrain. Once you get the hang of it and boost your confidence, you’ll want to move on to the bigger hills with more demanding, technical terrain.   

Ascending Hills - When you’re approaching a hill, switch down into a lower gear so that it’s easier to pedal. Move your body forward on your bike seat, so that you are barely sitting on the seat. Push your chest down until it’s almost touching your handlebars, keeping your weight forward so you don’t flip over backward. If you encounter a root, don’t slow your pedaling; just keep pedaling right over it. Pace yourself and take your time climbing; think of it as if you are climbing stairs, one step at a time. 

Descending Hills - On the downhill, to prevent tumbling forward over your handlebars, keep your weight as far back on the seat as possible. Don’t ride your brakes. Get in the habit of always braking evenly. If you hit your front brake too hard at any time, even on the flats, it could cause you to flip forward. 

The Best Bike - You’ll want to find a bike with at least 21 gears—if not 27. You’ll be shifting constantly, and you’ll want as many gears as possible, especially when it comes to ascending (the easier it is to pedal, the easier it is to climb). Look for a lightweight, well-constructed bike.

The Best Seat - Definitely try to find a comfortable seat that’s ergonomically designed for mountain biking.  The seat best suited for mountain biking may take a little getting used to. They are generally smaller, thinner, lightweight seats that may make you feel a little sore in the saddle in the beginning. However, you will develop a tolerance if you just hang in there. 

Helmets are a Must - Your head is the most important part of your body to protect when mountain biking. A good helmet doesn’t have to be expensive. Make sure your helmet is secure and fits you well. A loose helmet that falls off or slips to the side when you tip over backward will do you no good.

Wet Trails are a No Go - Wet trails, with wet rocks and roots, are dangerous. Also, riding on wet trails can damage the trail. An environmentally responsible biker does not ride on wet trails. Instead, choose to ride on pavement. 

Conquering Your Fear - If you are careful, you will rarely fall. If you do fall, don’t let it keep you from getting back on the horse. Do not ride fast around blind corners; someone could be coming toward you going just as fast. You can get a great workout without a lot of speed. 

A Great Social Sport - Mountain biking is something best done with a buddy or even a group. You don’t want to break down or have an accident in the middle of the woods when you’re all alone.  Start a mountain biking group. If you ask them, they will come.  

Get Out and Ride - Mountain biking has it all going on! Enjoy the great outdoors, get fit, and clear the cobwebs and clutter out of your head. You’ll get the most out of this popular sport if you play it safe and learn how to do it right.  Once you get the hang of it, you’ll be hooked.