Fitness review: mountain biking
Mountain biking is definitely a fitness workout that suits those who like a side serve of adrenaline to go with their cardio.
If you’ve ever watched the Tour de France on TV, you know those cyclists put their bodies on the line. So it’s no surprise to learn that a few started out with BMX and mountain biking way before they turned into elite athletes.
In the first of my guest reviews, I sought out someone who loves to ride. Meet my homegirl, Renee. Renee is part of the Ask That Fit Girl community who loves to keep fit and active. This 37 year old mother-of-three is a pocket dynamo. Always on the move, she took up mountain biking two years ago as a way to find some peace and calm in her busy lifestyle juggling work, parenting and a social life.
To her, mountain biking is a great stress relief and a way to inspire her kids to keep moving too. Renee’s advice for complete beginners is to try out a few trails with a friend who’s a regular rider and make sure your bike is the correct size for you!
The details:
Duration: This will depend on fitness levels and type of trail, but allow an hour for an easy, beginner ride
Style: Mountain bike trail through bushland
Cost: Free
Who’s there: Expect to see other riders, mostly male but is becoming more popular among females, all ages
What to wear: Looser style clothing that covers skin, knee/elbow pads, helmet and gloves. Bring a hydration pack too you can wear on your back.
Ask That Fit Girl > What should someone expect?
If you haven’t been on a bike in a little while, expect to feel a little sore afterwards. Mountain biking has you going up and down different terrain and you’d be surprised at what a workout it is. You’ll definitely feel like you’ve used your quads, your glutes, your hamstrings, core, lower back and shoulders and biceps thanks to how you are positioned low over the bike.
What’s great is there are plenty of trail rides that are easily accessible and take in some beautiful landscapes, and that’s a big part of the appeal of mountain biking. Here are 3 tips to make the most out of your first ride:
Take it easy – more than likely you’ll be on a bike that’s new or unfamiliar so just take your time. You need to learn how the bike handles on different terrains, for example loose ground makes it very easy to fall off. Bike to your ability and the more riding you do, the better you’ll get at handling yourself and the bike.
Dodge the trees – I know, it sounds so obvious doesn’t it! But if you’re new and inexperienced they can sometimes feel like they came out of nowhere! Check that your brakes are in good condition before you start out and when you ride, keep your chin up and keep thinking and looking out for ‘what’s next’.
Have a blast – mountain biking is very social! Don’t be scared to talk to people who are also on the trails. You’re amongst like-minded people who also share your interest who come from all different backgrounds and walks of life. Just go out and enjoy yourself.
Ask That Fit Girl > Would you recommend mountain biking as a fitness workout to a friend?
100% yes. If you do fall in love with mountain biking, definitely invest in getting a bike that fits you and get it customized if need be. Borrowing a bike doesn’t quite work. Look out for coaching services. A good coach can really help to improve and build confidence in your riding. They’ll often host group rides too which is a great way to hit the trails regularly and meet people too. I go to Geoff Foxx from Hit Bikes and have been through their Total Rider Program.
What you like: social aspect, being out in the bush, time to myself!
What you don’t like: sometimes the hill climbs are nasty!!
Ask That Fit Girl > What would you rate this fitness workout out of 5?
Fitness 5/5 Weight loss 4/5
Strength and toning 4/5 Wellbeing 5/5
Ask That Fit Girl > Obviously music/headphones while you ride is a big no. But what song plays out in your head as you ride?
Feel like it could be something right up your tree? (figuratively speaking of course!). Check out Brisbane City Council’s cycling page that includes a full list of events, resources and trail maps.
Liked this guest review? Let me know in the comments box below.
Until next time,
Maryanne K
