Why mountain biking is a lot tougher than you think

Mountain biking is one of the best ways to exercise while getting in touch with nature at the same time. A large set of muscles are worked on during a bike ride on a rocky terrain along a hill. However, it is not all plain-sailing, the efforts that a mountain bike ride takes are enormous and you need to be prepared for whatever comes your way despite the fatigue.

Steep descents and astronomical climbs are a regular feature even in a one-day bike ride. Hero MTB Himalaya combines all this on the world's highest mountain range – the Himalayas, and that is one of the main reasons why it is regarded as one of the toughest mountain bike races.

Let's take a look at why mountain biking one of the toughest adventure sports in the world:

Terrain

We all know that biking off-road would have its share of bumps and potholes. While cycling on a paved road is extremely smooth, riding your bike on an upward slope while dodging rocks and gravel is a completely different prospect. The lack of a paved path means you will have to ride on mud, which can be extremely tricky as braking at the wrong time or an unnatural turn would result in a terrrible fall.

Gears

Shifting gears on a paved road and off-road are completely different. In mountain biking, the timing of shifting the gears are pivotal. The rider needs to anticipate when he/she is supposed to change the gears. If you can no longer continue pedalling in your current gear – be it because it is too tough to carry on or because it is too easy, it means a shift in gear is needed. If the gears are not changed at the right moment, you ride becomes too exhaustive.

Ability to pick yourself up from a fall

“What defines us is how well we rise after falling” - Remember this line and make it your mantra if you plan on venturing into mountain biking. There will be barely any mountain bike rides which would not have seen a fall or two. Due to the rough terrain and the steep climbs and descents, riders are prone to falls and it is their ability to pick themselves up and dust themselves off from these setbacks that set the top riders apart.

Moving your body

When climbing steep trails, you will need to move your body forward so that the rear wheel stays in touch with the ground, but with the right amount of traction. However, moving your body too far forward would result in you losing traction, while not leaning enough can see you do an accidental wheelie, which would probably spell doom for your ride. Similarly, while making steep descents, the body should be moved back at the right angle to provide optimal traction and a less-taxing ride. These skills need to be mastered before venturing into a bike ride.

Preparing your body

Conditioning your body is essential before you enter into any mountain bike race or even just want to get into mountain biking. The abdomen, glutes, thigh muscles and arms have to be extremely strong and should be able to endure the rigours of mountain biking. To target these muscles, riders generally mix aerobic and weight training. Walking on treadmills with high inclination and yoga for breath control are also two extremely effective ways to prepare yourself.

Apart from these most common difficulties, you will be facing a lot of other problems which you will need to find solutions for on the go. Due to it being extremely gruelling, mountain biking can be one of the most satiating experiences in your lifetime. So gear up and get ready to pedal into the unknown.