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Mountain biking is a popular past time. When your travel to Ruidoso, NM, you’ll come to see that there are quite a few mountain biking trails that cover a wide range of difficulty for cyclists of all experience levels.
Whether you’re looking to try mountain biking for the first time, or you’re getting prepared to hit the trails again, follow these tips to help you feel confident for your next ride:
Focus on Building Endurance
To keep yourself from huffing and puffing on the trail, regardless of your experience level, focus on building your endurance. Mountain bike trails are usually longer than your typical recreational trail, and you tend to travel up hill more often.
One of the best ways to start working towards building endurance is by practicing bike riding for longer periods of time. This will help you develop the strength to hold a steady pace for long periods of time. You can also take time to practice off of the bike too. Hiking, swimming, running, or incorporating weighted exercises will also help you build stamina and strength. Overall focusing on your overall fitness will help you prepare for your next ride.
Choose Your Trail
One of the most important steps to help you prepare for your trip is choosing a trail that’s appropriate for your skill level. If you’re a first time rider, pick a trail that has a lot of signage that will help guide you a long the way.
You’ll also want to find/carry a map of your trail. It’s always nice to ride your trail with a buddy, especially if you’re riding on a trail for the first time.
Create a Packing List for Your Adventure
Make sure you have all of the gear you need for your adventure. Remember that a ride on the trails, isn’t like a ride around your neighborhood. You’ll have to bring the right gear and tools to help you have a successful ride.
Pay attention to the clothing you pack to wear on your ride. Bike shorts, breathable teeshirts and tank tops, and a lightweight rain jacket are always great options to bring. Because mountain riding is different than street riding, invest in padded shorts, knee and elbow pads, and gloves to help protect yourself in the case of a fall.
Be Prepared
Always carry extra supplies with you. Throw some granola bars and enough water to keep you hydrated throughout your ride. Also, it doesn’t hurt to throw in a small first-aid kit with you just incase. If you’re riding alone, before you embark on your adventure, remember to tell a friend or family member where you’re going and an estimate on when you’ll finish.
Remind Yourself of the Benefits of Biking
Before booking your adventure remember that your mountain bike journey will test your physical and mental ability. However, there’s a reason why so many people enjoy mountain biking. There are also many mental and physical health benefits associated with bike riding. Plus, it’s an exhilarating adventure. Be aware of the challenge ahead of you, but remind yourself of the benefits you can gain.
Here are a few reasons why mountain bike riding is a popular past time:
- Improved heart health
- Less stress on joints
- Decreased risk of diseases
- Reduced stress
- Improved mood
- Whole body workout
- Leads to better sleep
Don’t Forget to Enjoy the Ride
Your mountain biking experience may be challenging, but it’s rewarding. The sights you’ll see while bike riding in New Mexico are breathtaking and unforgettable. If you have the chance to mountain bike during your trip to Ruidoso, NM, it will be a once in a lifetime experience.
After your long day of biking, come back and relax at Innsbrook Village Country Club and Resort. We are located very close to some of the best mountain biking trails around Ruidoso, including Cedar Creek Trails across from the Smokey Bear Ranger Station! Contact us online today to learn more!
