If you are just getting into the hobby of Mountain biking, there are a few things you want to avoid. Unfortunately, I learned these Do-Nots the hard way.  My self-sufficiency would not allow me to ride with an experienced Mountain Biker the first few trips out.  As a result, I made some mistakes that took the shine off the hobby for a few weeks.  I hope these dozen tips on preparing for a Mountain Biking trail ride will help you enjoy those first rides

A Dozen Do-Nots: Mountain Biking Ride Prep:

1. Do not forget to properly hydrate. Drink lots of water hours before the ride .
2. Do not forget to eat some carbs before the ride. An energy crash on the trail is no fun.
3. Do not wear underwear under your biking shorts. The chamois pad and tighty whities will rub blisters.
4. Do not forget to carry your camel pack. You will need to stay hydrated during the ride.
5. Do not ride without protective eyewear. Tree branches poke out eyes.
6. Do not ride without a spare tire tube & pump in your pack. Walking the bike out of the trail with a flat tire sucks.
7. Do not ride without a helmet. You will get thrown off…You will hit your head eventually.
8. Do not ride without gloves. You typically break your fall with your hands. Protect them.
9. Do not ride in a cotton jersey. It does not wick away sweat and gets heavy fast.
10. Do not ride with your cell phone in your pocket. When you go down it will get destroyed.
11. Do not ride with keys in your pocket. They will leave a big bruise on your thigh when you get pitched.
12. Do not ride without identification with you. If you are knocked unconscious, people need to know who you are.

However, if you do find yourself violating one of the Do-Nots and sustaining some bodily damage, remember the old adage: “Pain is temporary, glory is forever, and chicks dig scars….”

More in the Dozen Do-Nots Series:

ANY_CHARACTER_HERE

• Pooting in Public (Indispensible Info!
• Wrestling With Your Kids
• Being Civil With Others
• Marriage Communication
• Church Planting