Athlete Series: Why Mountain biking is the best by Cam Barlow

Athlete Series: In this summer-long series, each Hoback athlete will share their take on a mountain bike topic that excites them and reveals what drives them, along with any of their key takeaways

As I summit the mountain, I look over and see a red-orange sky filling the horizon. Mountain biking has been a passion of mine for many years. My dad got me into mountain biking when I was a little kid, and I have loved it ever since. 

Mountain biking can bring you to places that you would not go otherwise. I have been to some of the coolest places with the most stunning views while riding my mountain bike. Mountain biking gets people out into nature and allows them to explore the beautiful world that we live in. 

Mountain biking is thrilling. The dopamine that you get when you go off a jump or haul down a trail is one of the best highs that you can get, and it puts a smile on many people’s faces.

Mountain biking creates new friendships. I have met many people through mountain biking. Everyone is out having a great time and is more than willing to coach you through a new feature or give you a lift up to the top. Naturally, after this happens time and time again, you become friends.

Mountain biking is good for your body (except when you crash). Mountain biking is great cardio and is healthy for the lungs, heart, muscles, and liver. It also creates muscles in your shoulders, forearms, and triceps due to the constant pushing and pulling.

Mountain biking has given me so many great experiences and friends that I could have never gotten otherwise. If you have not gotten into mountain biking, give it a try. Mountain biking is truly one of the best sports, and so many positive things come out of it.