Mountain biking is one of the most exhilarating forms of exercise around. But for some riders, mountain biking is the BEST form of exercise! It's no wonder so many people are addicted to it! If you're looking for a way to get active and have some fun, mountain biking is definitely the way to go.Here are eleven reasons why mountain biking is the best form of exercise:
1. Mountain Biking is The Perfect Blend of Physical Exercise and Fun!
It's easier to stick with an exercise routine if you enjoy what you're doing, which is why so many people stick with running, while others give up on exercising altogether. With mountain biking, however, you are able to get your daily dose of exercise while enjoying one of the most fun recreational activities around. You can also take your mountain bike inside for some indoor "trail" riding at the gym during inclement weather conditions.
2. Riding a Mountain Bike Helps Protect Joints From Injuries!
This is due to the excessive impact that comes from running or traditional road biking. Trail surfaces are much smoother than asphalt or concrete so there is decreased action being absorbed by the body compared to road biking.
3. Mountain Biking Tones The Important "Core" Muscles!
This includes the abs, back, and sides while also working legs, arms, and shoulders. The more you lean forward on your bike, the harder these muscle groups are being worked!
4. There is No Better Full-Body Workout Than Riding a Mountain Bike Up and Down Hills!
Riding uphill requires strength in quads (front of thigh) as well as hamstrings (back of thigh) which will all be strengthened through continued riding. Riding downhill provides an amazing workout for calves (back of lower leg), quadriceps (front of upper leg), core abdominal muscles and back making it easier to do daily activities like walking or climbing stairs without feeling tired or winded due to the increased muscle stamina.
5. Mountain Biking is a Great Stress Reliever!
Riding is fun, freeing and extremely relaxing allowing you to leave all your worries behind as you coast down the trails with nothing but fresh air in your face and nature surrounding you.
6. Mountain Biking is an Effective Weight Management Tool!
It increases your overall calorie expenditure compared to hiking or running at the same speed due to the prolonged time spent on the bike covering more ground. You can burn up to 600 calories per hour for vigorous riding (roughly equal to running).
7. A Mountain Bike Ride Doesn't Have To Be Long in Order For Someone To Get a Toning Workout!
Even short rides of 30 minutes or less are beneficial during any season especially when the weather doesn't permit outside activities.
8. Riding a Mountain Bike is an Environmentally Sustainable Form of Exercise!
It's an exercise that can be done just about anywhere there are trails, which allows you the flexibility to ride at your convenience! No need for special hard-to-find equipment...just hop on your bike and start peddling!
9. There are Hundreds of Mountain Biking Trails Available Worldwide!
Ranging from beginner to advanced levels, making it the perfect sport for people of all ages and fitness levels looking to get active or stay active! Most cities have multiple trail options to choose from, allowing riders the ability to select their desired level of intensity (based upon distance, height gain/loss, and obstacles). Additionally, many local parks offer free or low-cost group rides for anyone interested in trying out the sport without having to invest in expensive equipment.
10. Mountain Biking Allows You To Get Fit and Stay Fit!
Mountain biking makes you fit while helping you create/maintain friendships and memories that could last a lifetime! Many mountain bikers take trips together throughout the year. Why? In order to ride trails, they might not have ever had the opportunity to visit if it weren't for this fun pastime. This makes mountain biking a great bonding activity as well!
11. Aside From Giving You a Full-Body Workout, Mountain Biking is Also Extremely Good For Your Mental Health!
This is because it releases endorphins which help fight depression while also calming anxiety and nervous tension. Endorphins are feel-good hormones that are responsible for feelings of euphoria or happiness. Even just a short ride.
Conclusion
Mountain biking is an amazing activity to get involved in for overall health and wellness. It's a fun way to stay active while enjoying the outdoors or traveling, all while strengthening muscles and burning calories! This sport is also extremely beneficial for stress management. How so? because it allows riders to freely enjoy nature while getting some much-needed physical activity. There are countless benefits associated with mountain biking making it an excellent option for everyone regardless of age or fitness level.There you have it! 11 reasons why biking up mountains can be considered one of THE BEST forms of exercise out there. So, what are you waiting for? Go give it a try today!