| Healthy Lifestyle: Mountain biking |
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Issue 1 (Oct 08) As you travel around our beautiful region, try a new activity to lift your spirits and boost your stamina.
Started by biking adrenalin junkies during the 1970s in California,
mountain biking has changed dramatically over the years, growing from a
little-known hobby to a mainstream activity with several categories,
including cross-country, downhill, dirt jumping, freeride and trials. WHAT IS IT? Mountain biking entails riding off-road, often over rough terrain. Because of the variety of trails, it is a sport the whole family can enjoy; all you need is a bike with wide, knobbly tyres, large frame tubing, suspension shock absorbers and a helmet. WHERE? Mountain biking is becoming increasingly popular on many islands. But for a unique experience try Bike St Lucia’s jungle biking adventure, which houses trails to thrill the first-timer right through to the extreme rider (www.bikestlucia.com). GOOD FOR? Mountain biking is a great way to get fit and healthy. It builds up your cardio-vascular system, optimises fat burning and strengthens leg muscles. ANY DANGERS? Injuries range from cuts and abrasions from falls on gravel to serious injuries such as striking your head on a boulder or tree. So wearing protective equipment is vital. Also essential is picking the right trail for your experience and fitness. HOW? Depending on experience, it is best to start with some lessons until you find your feet. There are a number of resorts and operators offering tuition and mountain biking holidays throughout the Caribbean. |
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