If you’re looking for a way to get out and exercise, or you’re simply trying to find a way to relieve stress, mountain biking is a great option. The vigorous demands of mountain biking stimulate your body to release natural endorphins that positively affect your mood. It also boosts serotonin, which can help prevent depression and anxiety.
It’s a Full-Body Workout
Mountain biking is a full-body workout that burns more calories per hour than most forms of cardio. It also strengthens the core, legs and arms. Athletes specializing in off-road racing need a strong aerobic energy system to sustain high power outputs over long distances and endure repeated physical challenges. Workouts with all-out sprinting intervals that mimic hard starts are a great way to address this power necessity.
It’s a Fun Activity
Getting out in the great outdoors is a proven way to boost happiness. Spending more time riding the trails will increase social interaction and reduce stress. One of the most important aspects of any MTB training program is proper recovery. Using an easy-to-do recovery spin, such as the spin bikes at your local gym, can be a fun and effective way to keep your energy levels up so you can continue your training plan.
It’s a Great Way to Stay Active
According to experts like Train to Ride, MTB training is a great way to stay active and healthy. Not only does it positively impact your fitness, but it’s also a low-impact activity that doesn’t put too much pressure on your joints.
Whether you’re a casual rider or an elite mountain biker, there are some key workouts that you should incorporate into your training plan.
It’s a Great Way to Stay Healthy
An MTB training program is a great place to start if you want to boost your overall fitness and performance. It allows you to make small changes to your training routine that significantly impact your performance and health.
For example, long endurance rides are a cornerstone of most mountain bike training programs. These rides can be as long as 3-4 hours or more and are one of the best ways to boost threshold power.
It’s a Great Way to Stay Motivated
If you’re feeling low on motivation, getting out and riding is one of the best ways to boost your energy levels and get over a workout slump. It also has the added benefit of making you feel better when you’re done!
The key is to make your training more fun and rewarding. Set a goal, challenge yourself to do it better than the last time you rode and reward yourself with a reward when you hit your goal.
