Mountain biking
If you're after an activity that offers all the benefits of a high-impact sport, but with low impact on your body, then mountain biking could be for you.
For cardio, endurance, muscle development, pure fun and variety, mountain biking can help you pedal your way to serious fitness. Anyone who can ride a bike can ride a mountain bike, but be sensible on your first trip out.
Because it's weight bearing, mountain biking puts little impact on the joints, unlike running. It's a form of interval training with fast and slow spurts that really works your heart rate. For lower-body strength, cycling's hard to beat: it builds great thighs, calves and glutes. Getting out onto trails is more challenging than road riding, so mountain biking allows you to work your core and upper body as you negotiate tricky turns and tough terrain. Because every ride is different, mountain biking offers the variety that our bodies and minds need to increase fitness and stave off boredom.
Where to learn
Australian Mountain Biking Clinics are held in NSW, Queensland and Victoria and range from Wobblies (beginners) to Fast And Furious for experienced bikers. Courses last from four to six hours and prices start at $120. www.ambc.com.au
