5 things not to do before riding an ATV

Science is constantly evolving, but there are some certainties, especially when it comes to things to avoid before getting on the ATV and riding.

Here are 5 things you shouldn't do before getting on your bike. Unless you want to upset yourself or your partner, who tends to skip climbs more easily than you.

If so, we recommend item 2 😉 Welcome!

Don't listen to yourself

As a mountain biker, learn to listen to yourself and listen to your body. If you're feeling sore or tired, swallow your pride and take a day off. Everything is very simple!

You have nothing to strive for, nothing to prove, and no, sorry to disappoint you, but no one really expects your photos to be posted on social media.

Take your time and find out what works best for you!

Eat a lot and a lot

It's obvious, but it's always a good idea to keep this in mind: don't snack before exercising!

You've heard of the health benefits of bolognese pasta 🍝 before the race. If you've already experienced this, you may have noticed that food that is overly loaded does not digest well after starting the effort, even if it appears to be beneficial in terms of dietary intake.

It is important to eat at a specific time to feel better on the bike.

While you are straining, the digestion process slows down. The blood flow is directed to our muscles, caused by physical effort, and is no longer directed to our digestion. "Here, hello, cramps, side effects, nausea, even vomiting ... Okay, family meal before mountain biking, this is the last time!"

Do static stretches

Recent research shows that static stretching is not beneficial to the bike.

In fact, research has even shown that this type of stretching is not beneficial and requires more effort to complete the exercise in the saddle.

In fact, when you do a static stretch for 30 to 60 seconds, it lengthens the muscles, but it also affects the signal between the muscles and the brain. The latter "protects" the muscle by triggering a reflex that prevents muscle fatigue. Thus, the muscles get stuck and can no longer contract normally. This reflex reduces muscle strength and power for a short time.

Conversely, a dynamic warm-up (home exercise machine) allows the muscles to move in a manner similar to a real situation. This is useful.

Driving in the morning, can we stay on an empty stomach?

If the first thing you do in the morning is a mountain bike route, you don't need to eat breakfast before the trip because going out on an empty stomach for about an hour is great.

However, if you are driving late in the morning, you will not be able to get out without eating. There should be at least 1 hour between eating and exercising (ideally 2 hours).

Then a few small snacks throughout the day is a good strategy to keep your blood sugar stable.

Don't go to the corner

If you enjoy morning mountain biking, you may need to avoid drinking coffee before riding as caffeine is known to affect bowel function.

Stop drinking fluids about 30 minutes before leaving and always do the last toilet before leaving.

If you have bladder problems or are not sure how things will go during your trip, it would be foolish to plan your itinerary with a stop in the bathroom. You can also wear wet wipes for emergencies.

📸 Credits: MTB Time