7 Tips for Beginner Mountain Bikers By Kim Cross

7 Tips for Beginner Mountain Bikers

By Kim Cross

While it’s true you never forget how to ride a bike, a beginning mountain biker must learn the necessary skills to ride a mountain trail. In this article by Kim Cross she shares the advice of cycling experts to explain the fitness requirements and the technical skill set required of mountain trail riders.

Step one is to build a base level of fitness before you put a wheel on a mountain trail. The author explains, “If you’re coming off the couch, aim to spend four to six weeks in base-building mode—frequent, consistent, low-intensity effort—before adding speed and intensity.”

Once you have achieved your baseline fitness level, it is time to add interval training, where you incorporate bursts of intense effort followed by rest periods. As training progresses these intense intervals get longer.

Once fitness is maximized, it is time learn how to ride the trails. You must practice how to carve through the turns and float over rocks and roots. A key skill to master is the front wheel lift as it is essential for a rider to  be able to lift the front wheel over uphill obstacles.

Lastly, riders must learn how to rest and recover from exhaustive exertion. Recovery begins with a drink that combines  protein and carbohydrate, then rest and stay off the bike for a day or two. Once you have achieved the necessary level of fitness and have learned the skills required to traverse a mountain trail, you will be ready to take on the mountain with confidence and enthusiasm..

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We at Wishing Well Outdoors hope that you enjoyed this article by Kim Cross. You may read the full article by clicking the article’s title at the top of the page. If you are in the market for bikes or accessories, please browse the cycling section of our storefront.