| Mountain bike racing is a demanding sport, as | | | | itself, as you will know how to handle your |
| anyone who has attempted it will know. If | | | | bike depending on what conditions you'll be |
| you're thinking of trying it for the first | | | | up against. Just as you would give your car |
| time it's important to make sure you are | | | | the once over before setting out on a long |
| prepared for the demands it will put on you | | | | journey, so you should also check your bike |
| physically. This will ensure you are able to | | | | over to make sure it's race ready. Make sure |
| enjoy the race without running the risk of | | | | the tyres are pumped up adequately and |
| injury. If it's been years since you have | | | | everything is well oiled for the best |
| even ridden a bike, you will need to get some | | | | performance. Loose chains are a real hazard |
| practice in before you even think about going | | | | in mountain bike racing, as they can easily |
| mountain bike racing. If you don't, getting | | | | get caught on a loose branch or stick as you |
| saddle sore on race day will be the least of | | | | go flying along. Do the best you can to |
| your problems. To begin with, a regular | | | | ensure everything is in tip top condition. Be |
| program of cycling will build up your fitness | | | | ready for whatever the weather may throw at |
| levels and strengthen your leg muscles. This | | | | you during the race. Wear comfortable |
| is vital if you are going to stand the pace | | | | sneakers and lightweight clothing that will |
| when mountain bike racing. Cycling on the | | | | dry easily if it should rain. As you gain |
| road is an ideal way to begin to improve your | | | | experience you will find a combination of |
| fitness levels, but as soon as you can you | | | | clothing that suits you best. You may even |
| should venture off road to get used to the | | | | want to invest in proper cycle clothing. |
| rougher terrain that is the key feature of | | | | Mountain bike racing is a great way to spend |
| mountain bike racing. Experiment with gears | | | | a few hours and improve your fitness levels |
| and speed as you begin to gain confidence | | | | at the same time. Preparation is the key to |
| over the terrain, and try and ride different | | | | having the best time, so make sure you're |
| areas during both wet and dry conditions. | | | | ready for anything. |
| This will prepare you far better for the race | | | | |