With each new year comes an influx of people to gyms trying to lose weight. While their intentions are good, the majority of people lose interest quickly and stop going. The fact is, running on the treadmill or riding the elliptical machine just aren’t very exciting aerobic exercises for most, so making a habit out of them is difficult. These failed attempts to drop pounds probably leave people wondering if there is a more exciting and fun way to lose weight. Well here’s the good news: there is!
Mountain biking is a weight loss option that many people rarely consider. However, it offers many benefits that make it a fantastic form of exercise that can also serve as an equally fantastic hobby.
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Time is on Your Side
One of the problems with running, especially in the beginning, is that many people give up or stop before they get very far. To get rid of excess body fat, you must first burn through the readily available calories in your body, which requires your heart rate to be fairly high. Getting your heart rate to an optimum level can take up to twenty minutes. Twenty minutes of continuous running is a chore for many. In the mountain biking world, however, you’ll struggle to find trails that don’t take at least 20 minutes to complete.
Can’t Beat That View
A wonderful element of mountain biking is the breathtaking view the rider gets throughout the ride. Even if you’re not on a legitimate mountain, lush forest with unique terrain is far more interesting to look at than the wall inside of a gym, a track, or a regular dirt trail. There’s an entertainment factor to mountain biking that cannot be topped by traditional aerobic exercises.
Keep Your Brain Engaged
On top of the view, the rider must give the trail his or her complete attention. Terrain and obstacles can change in an instant, requiring a shift in speed, direction, or movement. When you’re running, it’s easy to slip into an easy pace, causing your heart rate to find a comfort zone. Mountain biking forces your body to change and adapt. There’s no room for complacency in this sport!
These are just a few reasons why mountain biking is a great option for people wanting to get active and lose weight. It can be a challenge, but it can also be incredibly fun and exciting. What are you waiting for? Get out on the trail!