Mountain Biking Introduction
Most people have stereotypical and negative visions of physical activity - going to the gym to a spinning class perhaps. Getting healthy and in shape does not have to be repetitive or torturous, though. Mountain biking is a great way to get fit and strong and have alot of fun doing so. Age is irrelevant, one can start off from any fitness level and there are many variations in the sport.
Mountain biking is low impact (for those of you who have joint problems) and combines aerobic and anaerobic training. This combo helps to burn alot of calories and develop muscular endurance and tone.
Long rides are great for relieving stress and can be very relaxing. An added bonus is that mountain biking is a social activity and great for family and friends to participate in together. Its also a great way to meet new people, because you will want to share experiences and advice with fellow riders.
Choosing a good bike is very important. The choice usually comes down to price - all the major manufacturers feature bikes that are very similar in andy given price range. So, if you chose a Cannondale Mountain Bike, there would be almost identical mountain bikes in the same price range from the likes of Gary Fishcer and Marin.
Buying the bike is not where it stops though, and depending on your budget, level of expertise and personal preference, there are almost limitless accessories available. Safety gear is, however, one addition that should not be overlooked. Buy the best helmet you can, unless you like the idea of a cheap helmet and your head cracking if you take a bad fall. Also get a good pair of gloves - your hands will thank you. Speaking of safety, keeping properly hydrated and replenishing a depleted energy supply (think bananas for a quick boost) is very important.
There will always be a more challenging or interesting trail to ride, so, there is no limit to the fun as your skill and curiosity grow. If you are a nature lover, mountain biking is a fantastic way to take in the scenery!
If you are in the market to buy, please visit our Cannondale Mountain Bikes section. It features a wide selection of new and used mountain bikes.