Mountain Biking isn’t as Scary as You Think
If the thought of mountain biking sends a shiver down your spine, you're not alone. Many people think it’s dangerous, scary and not for them. However, it doesn’t have to be. Mountain biking is not only for everyone, but also a rewarding and fun activity that has lots of benefits. Let's dive into why mountain biking isn't as scary as you think and how you can safely enjoy riding.
Myth-Busting:
Contrary to popular belief, you don't have to ride the fastest or tackle the difficult terrain to enjoy mountain biking. While there are certainly trails that will get your heart started, there are also plenty of easier trails designed for those who prefer a more relaxed and cruisy ride. Most trails or mountain bike parks offer varying difficulty levels, allowing you to choose the ones that you like to ride. Similar to skiing, trails are rated by colour, green is for beginners and are the easiest, blue for intermediate and black, the most technical. Most technical trails will have an ‘A’ line at certain features, which is the most technical, and a ‘B’ line, which is the easier option.
Safety First:
Safety is a top priority in mountain biking, and the right gear can make all the difference. Wearing a properly fitted helmet is a must, and investing in quality protective gear like finger-length gloves, knee and elbow pads can provide added peace of mind. If you are riding more technical terrain, a full-face helmet is a worthwhile investment and insurance for your smile.
The Benefits:
Mountain biking offers more than just an adrenaline rush; it's an excellent workout that improves cardiovascular fitness, strengthens muscles, and boosts endurance. It is also an opportunity to connect with nature, offering an escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. The mental benefits are just as significant, with many riders finding that biking helps reduce stress and improve mood whilst connecting with a like-minded community. For Trail Queens founder Jo, it is her meditation as she focuses on the riding and can’t think about anything else. It also helps you manage challenging situations in everyday life better.
The Community:
The mountain biking community has a very friendly, chilled-out and inclusive nature. Riders of all levels are welcome, and local clubs regularly host come-and-try rides so you can familiarise yourself with the trails. There is no shortage of people to talk about all things mountain biking at the trailhead. And a post-ride coffee and chat is a must.
Tips for Beginners:
If you're new to mountain biking, start small. Maybe join a social ride or ride with someone who knows the trails, and don't be afraid to walk your bike through sections that feel too challenging at first. We run a monthly Come & Try Social Ride at Sugar Bag MTB Park.
Of course, we are a coaching business, so we recommend having a skills session to teach you the fundamental skills required to keep you safe on your bike and get the most enjoyment out of the ride. The skills you learn, from braking, gear selection, body position, trail awareness, climbing and cornering, will stand you in good stead every time you ride.
Remember, everyone was a beginner once, and with practice, you'll soon find yourself riding trails you once thought were too hard. You also don’t have to apologise for being slow, we all have the same right to be on the trails. If someone does come up behind you, you only need to pull over when it is safe and you're comfortable to do so.
Many of our clients surprise themselves when they apply the skills they’ve learnt in a session.
Previous participants had this to say:
“The technique works! Party Mix isn’t so scary any more”
“Previously, I was a two-finger breaker. Today I rode my usual trails at Wooroi with one finger breaking, and I can’t believe the difference…. Thank you for that tiny bit of info, which has made a huge difference to the handling 😁”
Happy Riding.