I Need A Break From The Farm Life! Why I Started Mountain Biking Again – in My Late Forties

I used to be an avid runner. Before moving to Havana, Florida, I was running about 10 miles a week in our Jacksonville suburbs. Now that we’re settled in on a farm in the backwoods, running isn’t quite as easy especially when the neighbors’ dogs get all kinds of upset about me trotting by. Yeah, I’m staying busy at the TnF Farm but its not the same kind of cardio and I need a break from the farm life!

So what about mountain biking? There are about 50 trails within an hour of the TnF Farms homestead. Mountain biking, with its adrenaline-pumping descents, picturesque trails, and connection to nature, has long captured the hearts of outdoor enthusiasts. While it may seem like a sport best enjoyed by the young and adventurous, there’s no age limit to straddle a mountain bike and hit the trails. In fact, starting mountain biking in your forties can be an incredibly rewarding and life-enhancing experience. Let’s explore the compelling reasons to embrace the thrill of mountain biking because I need a break from the farm life!

You Control the Budget

I have some friends that have mountain bikes costing in the thousands. And I’m not talking about ebikes. These are very high quality, precision sporting goods meant for professional riders. Yes, you can go and buy the nicest bike you can find. Sure, you’ll impress some bike nerds but no one else is going to know. You can buy a nicer bike at Walmart and be leagues ahead of the $50 bikes listed on craigslist.

Focus on the bike

A lot of people decide they are going to ride a bike to get into shape. Which is a fantastic decision. They head down to the bike store and gasp at the prices. Discouragement sets in. Then one day wandering through a Walmart, they wander through the bike section. There are an abundance of fully decked out, full suspension bikes that look awesome. But if you read the fine print with the paperwork, these “rad” looking mountain bikes aren’t designed for trail riding.

Don’t get me wrong. Walmart sells shreddable mountain bikes. One of my favorite mountain bikes is a Wally bike. But focus on a simple bike with maybe just a front shock and better quality parts.

Helmets

Buy a bike helmet while you’re shopping. One bad crash and that helmet just saved you a huge medical bill. I was riding with a buddy and we were competitively riding fast. Something came loose and he had a terrible crash. He still ended up going to the hospital for injuries to his body but his head was just fine. Helmets have come a long way. You will look cool wearing one while on the trail.

Rediscovering Adventure

As we age, life can become more routine and predictable. Mountain biking injects a dose of adventure and excitement into your daily routine, rekindling the thrill of exploration and discovery.

Physical Fitness and Well-being

Mountain biking is an excellent way to improve your physical fitness. It builds strength, cardiovascular endurance, and flexibility. Riding trails through varying terrain challenges your body and keeps you in shape.

Stress Relief and Mental Health

Venturing into the great outdoors on a mountain bike is a powerful stress-reliever. The beauty of nature and the endorphins released during a ride can reduce anxiety and improve mental well-being.

Low Impact Exercise

Unlike high-impact sports, mountain biking is relatively gentle on the joints. This makes it an ideal choice for individuals in their forties and beyond who want to stay active without risking injury.

Communion with Nature

Mountain biking allows you to immerse yourself in natural surroundings. Whether you’re riding through forests, along mountain ridges, or beside rivers, you’ll experience a deeper connection to the environment.

Social Engagement

Joining the mountain biking community can lead to new friendships and social connections. Many cities and towns have local biking clubs or groups where you can meet like-minded riders.

Learning and Growth

Mastering mountain biking skills and techniques is a continuous journey. It stimulates mental engagement and offers opportunities for personal growth and development.

Setting and Achieving Goals

Mountain biking provides a platform for setting and accomplishing goals. Whether it’s conquering a challenging trail or improving your ride times, the sense of achievement is gratifying.

Appreciation of Scenery

Mountain biking encourages you to slow down and appreciate the natural beauty around you. It’s an excellent way to observe wildlife, admire panoramic vistas, and soak in the sights and sounds of nature. The trails around Tom Bown park are just amazing. I wish I had the ability to video the perspective of what I see.

Freedom and Independence

Mountain biking gives you a sense of freedom and independence. You can explore remote areas, take detours, and set your own pace, enjoying a sense of liberation from everyday constraints.

Connection to Youthful Energy

Engaging in physically active and adventurous pursuits can make you feel youthful and invigorated. Mountain biking can help you tap into the energy of your younger self.

Starting mountain biking in your forties is not just about embarking on a thrilling new hobby. It’s about embracing a lifestyle that enhances physical fitness, mental well-being, and the joy of exploration. It’s never too late to pedal your way into the world of mountain biking, where the trails are waiting, the scenery is breathtaking, and the adventure is boundless. So, dust off that mountain bike and get ready for a journey that will invigorate your body, clear your mind, and ignite your spirit. See you on the trails!