However, mountain biking isn’t the same as road cycling or urban biking. It’s more of an extreme sport, demanding higher cardiac activity and requiring a stronger musculoskeletal structure. Naturally, this comes with training, so mountain biking can be taken up by anyone at a gradual and steady pace.
Mountain biking adventures mean absorbing terrain impacts and enduring the inevitable falls you’ll face. It’s a fantastic land sport, offering huge benefits for your health, gradually building your body’s strength and endurance.
But before diving into this thrilling activity for the first time, here are some practical tips to get you started with basic theoretical know-how:
- Study the route. Before any mountain biking trip, it’s crucial to research the route in advance to boost your performance. Whether it’s an easy climb or a long, tricky trail, analysing the route helps you identify challenging sections and rest spots beforehand. This saves time and, most importantly, helps conserve energy for tougher stretches.
- Bike choice. Your bike should match your skill level and physical abilities. A bike packed with the latest tech won’t help if it’s too heavy for you. Beginners should opt for a lightweight frame to improve climbing rhythm. Bar ends can be very useful on technical sections. Before setting off, ensure your bike has had a proper service and all components work—especially the brakes.
- Nutrition. Mountain biking is an intense physical activity requiring plenty of energy. Depending on the route, it may demand more or less effort. So, fuelling properly is key. If you’re not a pro, you don’t need aggressive sports diets, but eating well beforehand is vital. Focus on carbs, proteins, and vegetables. Rice, greens, and bananas are great choices. Eat well but not too much to avoid feeling sluggish.
- Hydration. This is another critical factor for mountain biking. Always carry two water bottles (or more, depending on distance). Avoid gulping—chugging water will only bloat you. Instead, take small, regular sips and rinse your mouth to combat dryness. Proper hydration helps replenish fluids and beat the heat.
- Position. To avoid back pain and strained traps, your posture on the bike matters. Adjust the saddle so your legs don’t fully extend when pedalling but aren’t too bent. Keep arms and shoulders relaxed, with a slight arch in your back. On tough sections, use bar ends and stand only when necessary.
- Pacing. Find your own rhythm. Don’t compare yourself to others or push to keep up. Maintaining a steady pace optimises energy and prevents burnout. Experiment with gear combinations to find an ideal setup for your fitness level. Avoid climbing in too low a gear—it’ll exhaust you faster.
- Respect nature. Preserving the trails is a universal duty—future generations deserve them too. Remember, you’re a guest here, and its wildlife deserves care and respect. Be cautious around horses (easily spooked) and herds of cows or sheep. If startled, dismount and walk past slowly to avoid triggering a dangerous stampede.
- Team spirit. Everyone starts by learning progressively. Don’t abandon a struggling mate to show off or go solo. Teamwork is key—there’s always someone newer or more experienced. Know your limits to avoid overexertion, and stick together for a shared adventure.
- Cornering. Corners are the trickiest part due to the lean required. Unless racing, take them wide and unhurried—this reduces the gradient. On descents, outside lines also help you turn smoothly.
- Temperature hacks. The biggest foes here are extreme temperatures. Climbs can be energy-sapping in heat, while sweaty descents risk chilling you. Try these two tricks:
- For heat: Pack lettuce leaves under your jersey and helmet—refresh them during climbs for a cooling effect.
- For cold: Line your jersey with newspaper. It absorbs sweat and blocks wind, preventing a post-climb freeze. Test it—you’ll enjoy a cozier descent!
Keep these tips and hacks in mind for your next mountain biking adventure. Now, gather a group of mates and hit the trails—what are you waiting for?
In Mexico, you’ll find hundreds of mountain biking trails with breathtaking scenery and epic adventures. Don’t miss out!
