Why getting into MTB can be great for your mental health

Escapism on Two Wheels

There are plenty of ways that mountain biking (MTB) can improve your overall mental wellness. If you’ve ever considered taking up this sport, maybe this will be the article that finally converts you to a fan of the trails. Or if you have a mountain bike sitting idle in your shed or garage, it will motivate you to dust off those pedals and go get out there.

Sometimes we all need a break from the realities of everyday life. A bit of escapism to reignite that spark of joy that can get dulled by the daily grind.

Going out on your bike gives you the perfect opportunity for a little escapism and a boost for your mental wellbeing. Leaving the real world behind, if even for a short while, can give your mind a chance to relax, reset & reload, ready for whatever the days may bring.

Whether you banish the mundane by riding your MTB to work or go for a day in the wilderness, we believe in the mood-boosting power of the pedal.

The Natural Connection

MTB and the natural world go hand in hand and taking your bike for a spin can be as extreme as you want it to be. Whether this is an adrenaline-fuelled undertaking, carving your way through the forests at high speed, living every bump and rock beneath your wheels. Or gently riding around your local nature reserve or park taking in the wonder of the scenery around you.

It gives you the opportunity to live in the moment. To exist in the here and now and not worry about tomorrow. To see the beauty of the natural world and realise your place within it.

With a calmer perspective you are better equipped to let yourself enjoy the simple pleasures life has to offer and to not be overwhelmed by any challenges it may bring.

Making Memories

The sport can be a brilliant way to meet new people or reconnect with those you love.

A bike ride is a wonderful way to get the whole family together. It’s a chance to make shared memories that last a lifetime and forge meaningful connections.

Whether these memories are based on the perfect days, where everything went splendidly and not a single complaint was uttered. Or as sometimes happens in family life, even the less perfect days where not everything went exactly to plan. Even the most trying of rides can be looked back with fondness once everyone has warm food in their bellies and can laugh about the misfortune of the day.

Going out with a group can be a lovely way of building friendships. Finishing a challenging ride with a stop at your local cycling café for a mug of hot chocolate to talk over the events of the day is a great way to get to know people. Or if you are more of a post-ride drink kind of rider, then why not find a local pub to refresh yourself after taking on the trails.

Body Positive

The connection between physical and mental fitness is well known. Riding your MTB is an enjoyable way to get yourself moving in the right direction.

You don’t have to endure hours in a gym. You can pedal safe in the knowledge that each and every pedal stroke is a stroke towards a fitter, healthier and happier you.

By setting yourself achievable targets, whether this be simply cycling a little further each time or making it up that climb without stopping, you are building your self-esteem for a more confident you. You are the one in control of your fitness journey, take it at a pace that suits you.

And remember progress isn’t a straight line, we all have bad days in the saddle but that is part of the adventure.

Fun all the way Down

Lastly but perhaps the key thing to remember is that cycling is fun. It is a feeling of freedom that you feel deep in your soul and is hard to accurately put into words. It gives us that serotonin boost that brings a smile to our faces and our hearts.

We make a range of mountain bikes, but the Lapierre Edge is the perfect model for those wanting to give MTB a try. It’s accessible prices and is versatile enough to be used on a variety of terrains. Our entry level model will give you a taste of the freedom that MTB has to offer, as your appetite increases, we have the more hardcore models to match.

Hopefully, this short article has given you an insight into the many ways that MTB can be good for you mentally and physically. We do recognise that the world can be a challenging place and you should never put off seeking professional help if it’s needed.

This season the best gift you can give to yourself is to not neglect your mental wellness. Now go get out there and enjoy it.