How Dangerous Is Mountain Biking, Really?
Do you think mountain biking is a dangerous sport? I believe that mountain biking is not too dangerous to participate in. When some people see videos of mountain bikers, they might see them crashing or falling down a cliff. But in reality, for the everyday rider, it’s relatively safe. You will most likely get a couple of scrapes, but as long as you’re staying within yourself which means staying in your comfort zone and wearing a helmet, you can limit your risk. According to PubMed, 75 percent of all mountain biking injuries are minor.
But is the risk worth the reward? There are many different types of biking: XC (cross country) DH (downhill), enduro, and many more. XC is not typically as dangerous as enduro or downhill because it is focused more on uphill and less technical (rigorous) terrain. Some people enjoy XC for the many health benefits, and some people like downhill to have fun and go fast while still getting some exercise. Mountain biking is great for your health. Biking is a form of cardio exercise, which makes your heart healthier and in turn makes you happier, as reported by Polygon.com. Mountain biking is also good for your mental health and a great way to hang out with friends.
According to Elizabeth Millard, writing in Bicycling, biking is also good for improving sleep. I know when I get in a bike ride after school, or even go out to the jumps I’m building, I sleep better that night. Millard says that riding in the evening just before bed is the best time, but I think any time of day is good.
I understand some people might think that no one should be mountain biking because it is too dangerous, but if you take the proper safety measures, it is relatively safe. With all extreme sports, you can control the level of risk you take. You can do this by limiting yourself and your level of difficulty in terms of the trails you choose and the tricks you try. You can control your speed and wear the proper safety gear (full-face helmet, knee pads, and chest protector) which can lessen your risk of injuries. You can research the area so that you can stay safe and in your comfort zone, and you can ride with a more experienced friend. All of these things will help you stay safer and more comfortable on the trails.
I love mountain biking because it combines all of my favorite things: being in nature, riding fast, and being with friends. As Ryan Leech says in MBTR, even risk is a kind of reward if you are the kind of person who loves adrenaline: “Risk-taking still has the power to make us feel alive.” Knowing my own comfort level with risk is a big part of my growing up. If you want to strengthen your risk perception among many other things, you should try mountain biking.
Works Cited
“Discovering 5 Advantages of mountain biking.” Polygon, 18 May 2018.
Gaulrapp, et al. “Injuries in Mountain Biking.” PubMed, September 2001.
Leech, Ryan. “The Mountain Biking Risk Paradox.” MTBR, 31 May 2018.
Accessed April 22, 2024.
Millard, Elizabeth. “Wondering how to improve your sleep? Going on a ride can help.” Bicycling, 6 Oct 2021.
