Dr. Donald Sonn Mountain Bike Training Tips You Can Use

There is something special about taking a ride on a bike across a mountainous trail. The rush of wind in your face and the thrill of exciting challenges awaiting at the next bend is simply too much to ignore. However, as you head out on the trail, there are a couple of things you need to keep in mind.

You do not need to be a pro to get into mountain biking, but you certainly cannot just get on a mountain bike and head off on the trail. To be a mountain biker, you need first to build up your skill, strength, and endurance. Get as much practice as you can with your riding, tricks and techniques before you actually head out. It’s not an "overnight thing" that you just wake up and decide to be a mountain biker. Proper training is important, and if you have been sweating it out practicing on you mountain bike, these mountain biking tips can help you.

Choosing the Right Bike

The first thing about mountain biking is that you will need to get the right bike. You will need to have a budget because there are mountain bikes as from $300 to around $5,000. The higher priced bikes are made of stronger grade material and offer more accessories. There are different kinds of mountain bikes, so you should choose one depending on where you plan to ride.

All-Mountain Bikes – These bikes are built for rough terrain and are heavy and are great for climbing hills.Cross-Country Bikes – Cross country bikes are efficient and lightweight. These are great for rolling hills and smooth trails.Downhill Bikes – As the name suggest, they are great for steep drops and downhill rides. However, they are not good for uphill courses.Freeride Bikes – These bikes have thick wheels and are good for stunts, jumps and big drops.Dirt Jump Bikes – These are ideal for big jumps and can withstand an enormous amount of pressure.Full Suspension Bikes – These bikes have rear and front suspension; they are heavier but easier to ride and much more comfortable than hardtail bikes.Hardtail Bikes – These have front suspension forks. They are much lighter and are perfect for off-road riding.

Biking Gear

Once you have settled on what bike you want, you can go ahead and start getting your gear together. You will need the appropriate gear to stay safe on the trail. Padded shorts are comfortable and ideal for long rides. Get a reflective waterproof jacket for the rain and if you are going to be riding at night. Elbow and knee pads are vital to protect you from falls. Get a good pair of gloves to give you a better grip and protect your hands from blisters.

Get a helmet that is certified by a safety organization. Make sure the helmet fits snugly and does not move around when you tilt your head.

Follow the Rules

The International Mountain Biking Association has a set of rules for every biker to follow. Here are a couple of rules you should follow.

Always follow the trail signs and ride only on open trails.

Always be in control, watch your speed and slow down when you approach tight corners.

Signal when you are approaching another biker, let them know you intend to pass them and go on ahead.

Carry a repair kit and spares.

Do not approach or startle any wild animals along the trail.

Stay in Shape

Mountain biking is arduous, so staying in shape is vital. Build up your strength, skill and endurance and slowly increase the distance you want to ride. Here are some training tips you can use.

Run up and down hills, and on straight stretches of road. Proper practicing will get your heart rate up and prepare you for those grueling mountain trails.

Use your bike on different terrains like hills, wooded and grass trails. You will need to keep your bike under control no matter where you ride.

Warm up for at least 20 minutes each time you ride. Use a straight stretch of road or a stationary bike to warm up.

Use cross-training exercises to build up your muscles. You will need aerobic endurance for long rides. Swimming, hiking and working out with weights will help build strong muscles and get you ready for mountain biking.

Picking a Trail

When you are physically fit and have had sufficient practice runs with your mountain bike, you can pick a trail and head out on your mountain bike. If you are a beginner, stick to the flat trails with a couple of steep descents and sharp turns.

Intermediate mountain bikers can pick trails that have hills, rocks, and narrow spots. You will need to have some technical skills to try these trails.

Advanced riders can try the most difficult trails. With the experience you have built up over the years, you will be able to ride most mountain trails.

Professional riders can take the long, technical trails with switchbacks, rocks, climbs, tight twists and steep drops. Tight twists should not be tried by riders without the proper skills.

Whichever trail you choose, make sure you stick to the trail and do not go off the trail. Mountain biking is an extreme sport and requires riders to be physically fit. Mountain bikers need to be extra cautious while riding the trails. Taking care of your mountain bike is very important, check your mountain bike properly before heading out on a trail.

Dr. Donald Sonn is a reputed urologist with over seventeen years’ experience. Dr. Sonn is also an avid mountain biker.

The Author writes articles for medical and business field. He has also contributed to Wikipedia, Squidoo and Hubpages. His articles have been published in print as well as online magazines.