4 Health Tips for Older Mountain Bikers

Mountain biking is a sport loved by both young and old. The mountain biker who started young has the advantage of trained muscles and knowledge of bike mechanics, but there are stories of people who don’t start this exciting sport until well into their 50s and 60s. As they say, age is a state of mind. How serious you become is up to you, but no matter if you do it for hobby or competition (Yes! Older people compete!), there are some extra precautions you’ll need to take to ensure your health is at its optimal capacity. Here are 4 tips to aid the mature mountain biker in reaping the full benefits of this form of exercise.

1. Nutrition is Important

Nutrition is always important, whether you sit at a desk all day or ride the bumpy terrain of your local trails. Figuring out the right balance of calories and nutrients can be as much of a daunting task as training your muscles for the right balance of body and mind. Fortunately, there are experts out there, like gundry MD, who have done the calculations for you. Knowing what plants, proteins and supplements are best to build lasting muscle will give you a good start on developing the strength and stamina to keep progressing toward your goals.

2. Know How to Navigate the Terrain

While mountain biking is a rewarding sport, it can also be hazardous. There are multiple books and videos that can teach the correct way to approach an obtrusive object or situation. The most important thing to know is body positioning. Knowing the correct body position can save you from any mishaps, like falling off your bike, and even that requires the correct technique. Injury is a threat to your health, and a threat to your future as a mountain biker. It pays to take time to study your approaches, especially when you have to think fast.

3. Incorporate Cross Training

While you may be taking up mountain biking for exercise, it’s wise to regularly cross train for this type of exercise. Yes, you are essentially exercising for the exercise. Plus, you want to stay in shape and not every day is going to provide you with perfect weather for being outdoors. Warming up is also recommended prior to hitting the trails, and this can be adapted from the same routine you use in your training.

Strengthening your core will afford you more balance while strengthening your legs will empower your stamina. Getting into a routine is more difficult than it sounds, but once you get started it will become as much of the experience as your adventures through woods and meadows.

4. Don’t Forget Your Mental Health

Exercise of any type releases endorphins and endorphins make you feel good. While mountain biking will ultimately improve your mental health, including reducing your risks for Alzheimer’s and dementia, biking is also a good time to get things off your chest that have slowly been bubbling to the surface. It’s going to be harder to focus during the more challenging parts of your ride but use the slow periods for release. This will relieve you of tension and stress once the ride has completed. Being out in nature will also help you get a perspective on things. Don’t be surprised if you come back from your ride with needed answers or solutions. You can use mountain biking to improve your physical health but try to also use this time to improve your mental health.

Mountain biking is one of the most rewarding sports a person can join and at any age. Just ask Mirtha Munoz. It’s challenging mentally and physically, but it’s important to care for your health while actively involved as it can be draining on the body. Providing the right nutrients, knowledge, training and mental release will provide the optimal experience.