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Mountain Bike Fitness & Training

A close-up image of a wrist wearing a smartwatch displaying health metrics, including heart rate variability (HRV) readings. The watch shows a current HRV average of 50 ms and indicates it is balanced, along with baseline values and last night’s average. The wrist is partially covered by a black glove, with a blurred background of outdoor scenery.

Don't stress over HRV: Here's how to look at the data

Heart rate variability tracking can indicate when riders need rest. And to improve it, you probably need less stress, not more miles.

A top-down view of a Garmin device displaying a menu screen with options such as "Training Plan," "Workouts," "Segments," "Indoor Trainer," and "Intervals." The device is positioned on a wooden surface next to a computer keyboard.

Have you ever followed a formal training plan for MTB?

A structured training plan can help you get fitter and faster on the bike, but it's not for everyone.

A person in a helmet leans out of a Reddy Ice ice vending machine, with an open door displaying a price sign for small bags of ice at $3.19. A bike is partially visible in the background, and the machine is set against a brick wall.

Heat acclimation training: Tips to get ready for hot summer rides

Summer and hot weather rides can be a rude awakening if your body isn't ready for the heat. Here's how you can prepare.

A smartphone displaying fitness tracking data on a bed of gravel. The screen shows heart rate, sleep duration, steps taken, calories burned, and weekly activity stats including running and cycling distances.

Is Garmin Connect+ worth the money?

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A mountain biker performing a jump on a dirt trail surrounded by tall grass and trees, with a clear blue sky in the background. The rider is wearing a helmet and padded gear for safety.

At age 55, Lee McCormack is still getting faster, and helping other riders do the same

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A pair of feet wearing colorful sneakers, resting on a textured reddish-brown rock surface. The shoes have turquoise and pink laces, with visible detailing on the sides and soles.

In addition to mountain biking, do you run too?

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A young child in a blue shirt and helmet rides a Specialized Riprock mountain bike on a dirt jump track, maneuvering over a small ramp in a grassy park with trees in the background.

Mountain biking by the book: MTB might just be the perfect physical activity

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Study shows lifetime bicycling reduces knee pain and osteoarthritis

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An individual wearing turquoise bike shorts is pointing at their leg, with a mountain bike wheel visible in the foreground. The setting is outdoors, featuring a dirt ground with rocks and sparse vegetation.

Measuring bioactive nitric oxide during exercise could help improve fitness, and this new device provides real-time data

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A smiling cyclist wearing a black and green cycling jersey and helmet is riding a mountain bike on a grassy trail, with a blurred background of other cyclists and a scenic rural landscape featuring fields and barns.

So, You Don't Have Time for MTB Training. Welcome to the Club

Two mountain bikers navigating a rocky trail surrounded by shrubs and trees, with a scenic view of hills and fields in the background. One biker is crouched over a green mountain bike, climbing uphill, while the other rides further down the path. The sky is partly cloudy and bright.

Mountain Biking Alone is Not Enough to Keep You in Peak Shape

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A runner's foot in bright red trail shoes navigating a rocky path surrounded by lush green trees in a forest setting.

I Can Ride my Bike 50 Miles, But I Can Hardly Run Two. What Gives?

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A cyclist walking a mountain bike along a rocky dirt path in a rugged, barren landscape under a cloudy sky. Sparse grass and scattered stones are visible, with hills rising in the background.

The Barriers to Mountain Biking That Make it Better

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A cyclist riding on a dirt road through a foggy forest, surrounded by trees in a monochrome setting. The cyclist is leaning forward, navigating a curve in the road as the mist creates a mysterious atmosphere.

The Relief of a Fading Infatuation to Mountain Bike and Why the Off-Season Should be Embraced

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A smiling cyclist wearing a helmet and a blue long-sleeve shirt is taking a selfie in a grassy area with a scenic view of rolling hills and a clear sky in the background.

How Weekend Warriors can Build MTB Strength and Fitness Like a Pro

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A person riding a mountain bike on a grassy trail, captured in motion, with blurred greenery in the background to convey speed. The cyclist is wearing a blue helmet and a brown shirt, with the bike featuring green accents.

Hunching Over on Your Bike is Hurting You—But Here’s How to Fix It

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A polar bear swimming in clear blue water, with its head and upper body visible above the surface. The bear has a light-colored coat and is looking directly at the camera, surrounded by gentle ripples in the water.

Ice Baths and Mountain Biking: To Dip or not to Dip?

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A cyclist riding on a gravel path at dusk, surrounded by trees, with bike bags attached for storage. The soft light highlights the motion as the cyclist pedals forward.

6 Mental Tricks for Surviving the Toughest Parts of the Ride

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Two cyclists ride on a winding dirt road surrounded by trees and mountains, with fog hovering in the distance. The scene captures a sense of adventure and the beauty of nature.

How to Stay Strong in the Off-Season, Even if You're Off the Bike

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A mountain biker in a turquoise outfit navigates a rocky trail through a forested landscape, with mountains visible in the background under a cloudy sky.

How a Lack of Strength and Fitness Contribute to Injury Risk for Bikers

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Close-up of a wrist displaying a smartwatch with a gray strap, featuring detailed tattoos on the arm. The background is softly blurred with hints of red and green foliage.

Do You Wear a Fitness Tracking Watch?

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A cartoon illustration of a person standing next to a bicycle, wearing a green shirt, black shorts, and sunglasses. The character has a slightly frustrated expression and is saying, "Something is wrong with my bike. It feels sluggish!" The caption "EVERY SPRING" is written at the bottom of the image.

Feeling a Little Sluggish on the Trail This Spring

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A competitive mountain biking scene featuring riders navigating a dirt trail in a forested area. One racer in a white jersey with rainbow stripes is prominently leading the group, while another cyclist follows closely behind. The course is surrounded by trees and marked with race tape, creating a dynamic outdoor atmosphere.

Should Mountain Bikers Care About Fitness Metrics Like VO2 Max?

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A fitness instructor demonstrates exercises for improving mountain biking cornering skills in a gym setting. The background features weights and exercise equipment, with text indicating "Stronger MTB Cornering with 3 at-home exercises."

3 Exercises to Improve MTB Cornering Strength and Form

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A fitness instructor demonstrating a leg strength exercise in a gym setting. The image has the text "3 LEG STRENGTH EXERCISES for power up short climbs" prominently displayed. The instructor is wearing athletic gear and is in a kneeling position, looking towards the camera while gesturing with her hands. The background features workout equipment and a bright studio environment.

Better MTB Climbing and Punchy Power With These 3 Leg Strength Exercises

A group of four mountain bikers is navigating a rocky trail in a wooded area. One rider, wearing a green helmet and blue shirt, is skillfully maneuvering her bike over a rocky section. Two other bikers, one in a black shirt and the other in a blue helmet, are providing support and encouragement from the side of the trail. The environment is lush with trees and shrubs, highlighting the outdoor adventure setting.

Will You Hire Coach to Improve Skills or Fitness this MTB Season?

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A mountain biker navigating a rocky trail, climbing over boulders on a steep incline, with a rugged mountain landscape in the background under a cloudy sky. The biker is wearing protective gear and riding a teal-colored mountain bike.

Be a Pilot Not a Passenger: A Short Guide to eMTB Fitness and Handling Skills

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A person performing a workout in a gym, using a barbell in a low push position. The environment features gym equipment, including a kettlebell in the foreground and climbing ropes in the background, conveying an active and focused atmosphere. The image is presented in black and white, emphasizing the intensity of the scene.

Do you Lift Weights to Prep for MTB Season?

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A person wearing a black and blue mountain biking helmet and a long-sleeve shirt with the text "ENDURO MTB TRAINING!" stands outdoors. The background features reddish rocky terrain, suggesting a mountain biking location. The individual appears focused and is looking off to the side. They are carrying a hydration pack.

How to Know if You're Overtraining with Coach Dee Tidwell

A fitness training session in a gym with a colorful geometric mural. One person is demonstrating a squat while another person looks on and provides guidance. The background features vibrant patterns in red, blue, and black, along with exercise equipment placed on the ground.

4 Bodyweight Moves to Increase Strength for Mountain Biking

A cyclist wearing a black jersey and helmet rides a red bike along a dirt path, smiling in the sunlight. In the background, there are rolling hills and a clear blue sky, creating a vibrant outdoor scene.

The Fitness Tech Arms Race: How Data is Making Cyclists Faster with Chip Hawkins, Wahoo Fitness Founder

A mountain biker navigating over a moss-covered log in a dense forest, surrounded by tall trees and greenery. The rider is wearing a yellow jacket and brown shorts, with a red backpack.

Balance Training for Mountain Biking

A male cyclist wearing a camouflaged jersey and sunglasses is intensely focused while racing on a mountain bike. The number "1402" is displayed prominently on his bike. He is in a grassy area with a blurred background suggesting a competitive outdoor setting.

Lessons Learned Racing a Top of the Line Mountain Bike From the 1990s... In 2021

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A person demonstrating neck training exercises for mountain bikers, leaning forward on a bicycle in a living room setting with sunlight filtering through curtains. The text "Neck Training for MTBers" is displayed in the image.

Neck Training for Mountain Bikers: Head Support and Strength

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A person in athletic clothing is bending over on a dirt path, holding their leg, while a blue mountain bike lies on the ground nearby. The scene is surrounded by tall grass and trees, with a body of water visible in the background.

Do you Get Leg Cramps from Mountain Biking?

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A person demonstrating an upper back training exercise on a yoga mat, using a foam roller for support. They are lying on their side with one hand on their hip and the other hand behind their head, wearing a blue tank top and red leggings. The background features a wooden floor and a light-colored wall. Text overlays indicate "Upper Back Training for MTBer."

Upper Back Strength Training for Mountain Bikers

A mountain biker in bright green and black cycling gear navigates a trail, focusing intently as they ride uphill. A blurred cyclist is seen in the background, also on a mountain bike. The scene is set in a lush, green landscape, showcasing the competitive atmosphere of a trail biking event.

MTB Legend Tinker Juarez Shares Tips for Getting - And Staying - Fast on the Mountain Bike [Podcast]

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A person in a teal helmet and gloves leans forward while riding a mountain bike along a wooded trail, surrounded by trees and fallen leaves. They wear a purple long-sleeve shirt and patterned shorts, showing focus and balance as they navigate the terrain.

Master the Hinge: Hip Strength and Exercises for Mountain Bikers

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A mountain biker stands next to a bright red mountain bike on a rocky outcrop, overlooking a stunning mountain landscape with snow-capped peaks and a clear blue sky. Lush green trees surround the area, highlighting the natural beauty of the outdoors.

Getting Old Sucks. Rowan Minnion Has Tips for Making MTB Rides Better With Age

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A mountain biker in a bright yellow and blue jersey leans forward on a bicycle, navigating through tall grass. The cyclist is gripping the handlebars firmly, showcasing athletic posture while riding on a rugged terrain.

Core Strength for Mountain Bikers Plus 3 Exercises [Video]

A mountain biker in a red shirt and blue helmet is holding a bicycle upright, emphasizing shoulder strength. The background features bare trees, suggesting an outdoor setting. Text at the top reads "Shoulder Strength for Mountain Bikers."

Why Shoulder Strength is Important for Mountain Bikers, and 3 Exercises to Try [Video]

A man with long hair stands beside an orange mountain bike in a field of purple wildflowers, with green trees and snow-capped mountains in the background. He is wearing a gray t-shirt and black shorts, smiling confidently at the camera. The scene is set in a bright, outdoor environment showcasing nature.

MTB Skills Coach Gene Hamilton Talks Fitness and Equipment [Podcast #283]

A person in an orange shirt performs an exercise on a blue mat in a garage filled with bicycles and workout equipment. The individual is using an exercise roller while positioned in a plank-like posture. A bicycle tire is partially visible in the foreground, adding context to the garage environment.

The Praep ProPilot Gives Mountain Bikers a Fun and Novel Tool to Challenge Their Core [Review]

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A person riding a green fat bike on a snowy trail in a forest, surrounded by tall trees. The rider is wearing a helmet and winter cycling gear, with sunlight filtering through the trees.

How's Your MTB Fitness Compared to This Time Last Year? [Survey]

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A mountain biker in a blue jersey and black shorts rides rapidly on a purple bike through a grassy landscape, with motion blur conveying speed.

FKT Record Holder and Coach Rab Wardell Shares his Tips for Going Fast and Building Confidence [Podcast #274]

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A person in a black motocross helmet and goggles performs a plank exercise on a yoga mat in a living room with red walls and indoor plants. The individual is wearing a short-sleeved shirt and dark pants, with visible tattoos on their arms. Natural light comes through a window, illuminating the space.

MTB Training Tips and Tricks for the Untrainable Athlete

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A man and a woman wearing cycling gear stand beside their mountain bikes, overlooking a scenic landscape of mountains and a beach at sunset. The man points out a view in the distance while the woman looks towards it, both appearing to enjoy a moment of camaraderie in nature.

MTB Instructor Simon Lawton on Teaching New Riders and Riding in Baja [Podcast #273]

A woman wearing a turquoise helmet and a pink shirt smiles while standing in a scenic outdoor setting with colorful autumn foliage and mountains in the background.

Strengthening your Posterior Chain for Mountain Biking [video]

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A humorous cartoon depicting a boy sitting on the ground holding a piece of paper, looking anxious as a tall person on a bicycle prepares to jump. The tall person, wearing a helmet and a red shirt, says, "Hang on, I'm about to land this jump." The background includes a brick house and a green lawn.

Virtual MTB Skills Progression [Cartoon]

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A close-up view of a bike's handlebar with a GPS device displaying a map. The screen shows a detailed route overlay with an elevation of 12,000 feet indicated. The background features green grass, suggesting an outdoor setting.

What's Your Longest Mountain Bike Ride? [Survey]

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Two cyclists in mid-air performing jumps on their bikes, captured in black and white. They are racing side by side on a dirt track, with sponsorship banners visible in the background.

What is a 'Flow State' and How Can Mountain Bikers Get Into It More Often?

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A person in a red shirt and helmet stands on a dirt mound in a lush green forest, gazing down a winding path. Tall trees surround the area, with vibrant green leaves creating a serene backdrop. A wooden platform is visible to the left, enhancing the outdoor hiking environment.

Analysis Paralysis: When the Trail Grows Before your Eyes

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A mountain biker in a helmet sits on a blue bike, positioned beside a trail in a wooded area. The background features trees with autumn-colored leaves and a trail marked by wooden structures. The ground is covered in fallen leaves.

Mountain Bike Training in the Time of Covid [Podcast #269]

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A person wearing a red jacket and a helmet sits on a rock, overlooking a vast, rugged landscape of hills and valleys under a cloudy sky. The individual is facing away from the camera, with a backpack beside them, suggesting a moment of reflection in a natural setting.

How do you Reward Yourself After a Big MTB Ride?

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A mountain biker in bright green and black cycling gear navigates a trail, focusing intently as they ride uphill. A blurred cyclist is seen in the background, also on a mountain bike. The scene is set in a lush, green landscape, showcasing the competitive atmosphere of a trail biking event.

Mountain Bike Podcast

Tinker Juarez Shares his Secret for Beating Mountain Bikers Half his Age [Podcast #262]

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A cartoon scene depicting two adults with mountain bikes standing on a dirt path, watching a child in a yellow shirt performing a wheelie in the air on a bike. The background features rolling hills, trees, and a blue sky with clouds. The caption reads, "My kid is teaching me how to wheelie."

When the MTB Coach Becomes the Student [Cartoon]

A mountain biker in a turquoise outfit navigates a rocky trail through a forested landscape, with mountains visible in the background under a cloudy sky.

Enduro MTB Trainer Dee Tidwell Explains How to Prepare for High Altitude Mountain Bike Rides

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MTB Fitness Gear & Trainers

Suunto Vertical 2 GPS watch review: Multi-Sport smartwatch with offline maps for mountain biking

A close-up of a person's wrist wearing a Garmin smartwatch, displaying the time as 4:45. The person's hand is positioned to interact with the watch, and they are wearing a ring on their finger. The background is softly blurred, suggesting an outdoor setting.

Garmin Instinct 2S Solar fitness watch review

A close-up of a wrist wearing a smartwatch, displaying activity data including floors climbed and total elevation. The background is a blurred green foliage, suggesting an outdoor setting. The watch features a dark face with colorful metrics visible, and a striped fabric band.

Coros Pace 3 Sets the Mark for Other GPS Watches to Beat [Review]

Close-up of a wrist wearing a black WHOOP fitness tracker, with a textured strap and a partially visible athletic shoe in the foreground. The background is slightly blurred, suggesting an outdoor setting.

Whoop 4.0 Strap Review: A Wearable for Peak Performance

A hand holding a smartwatch displaying a detailed map, featuring colorful trails and pathways. The watch has a green strap and is set against a blurred outdoor background.

Is the New Apple Watch Ultra Good for Mountain Biking? We Put One to the Test.

A close-up image of a person's wrist wearing a Coros smartwatch, displaying a digital screen with a mountain graphic and the date (August 23) along with various activity metrics. The background features blurred greenery, suggesting an outdoor setting.

The Coros Vertix 2 GPS Watch Will Outlast You by a Long Shot, and Helps You Stay on Trail [Review]

A close-up view of a Suunto smartwatch on a person's wrist, displaying the time as 2:23 PM and various activity metrics. The screen shows icons for fire, water, and battery percentage, set against a blurred green background.

Suunto 5 Peak GPS Watch [Review]

A close-up of a hand holding a digital sports watch with a gray woven strap against a background of vibrant red leaves. The watch's display shows a timer, distance, total ascent, and elevation readings. The hand features visible tattoos.

With the Garmin Enduro Smartwatch, Riders Can Largely Forget the Charger

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