How do I train for mountain biking?

Question

I want to keep up with husband better when we go mountain bike riding...so how do I slowly build my endurance and power on the bike?

I already work out...I run 4-5 days a week, strength train 4 days a week, and will go riding once or twice a week.

I do a lot of other activities so I don't to become a better athlete overall but for awhile I want to focus on mountain bike riding.

Anyone have any tips or suggestions?

Answer 1

Simply ride more often. I have found that running and biking do not work the same muscles. I have always been a biker and I find that no matter how fast I run I cannot wind myself. My friends who are better runners have gone biking with me and wish they hadn't.

Answer 2

To get better you need to ride more and following a faster rider or one with good off-road skills is one of the best ways to improve. Mountain biking is not one those activities that comes quickly it requires lots of time and sometimes throwing caution to the wind. If you are riding technical trails there are a few good books out there that can help you learn how to conquer them, I like Ned Overend's book personally.    

Answer 3

Hum...  Very good question!

First of all, running and weight lifting are great, but to go faster on a bicycle you need cycling specific strength.  Nothing develops your cycling specific muscles like riding a bike.  Thus, cutting back on your other activities and upping your cycling will improve your mountain biking.  Keep in mind, riding a mountain bike on rough trails can be really hard on the body.  Too reduce stress on the body many top mountain bikers do a significant amount of conditioning riding on the road.

Secondly, you need to figure out why you are unable to keep up with your husband.  Is he able to ride through tough spots better?   Does he descend like a God?  Is he fearless?  If he pulls away from you for one or more or these reasons, it would indicate you need to improve your technical skills.  Or, does he pull away from you on ascents?    Does he have more endurance?  These things would indicate he is in better bicycling condition.

Hope this helps.

Answer 4

train at an uncomfortable pace. Set the gear so your legs are working and are uncomfortable most of the time.