Happy International Women's MTB Day!
Photo credit: Tim Foster (Check him out on Instagram)
Every year, the first Saturday in May is dedicated to women mountain bikers.
Why do girls need a special day to celebrate this sport you might ask? Well, to me this day helps shine a light on females in the sport, and also showcases that women mountain bikers are fearless badasses who may appear put together and dainty in their day-to-day lives, but get them on the trail on two wheels and watch out! We are rugged powerhouses who can hold our own on and off the trails!
If you're into the mountain biking scene, you know how ridiculously addictive and amazing it is for both physical and mental health. If you're not into it, but are thinking about it, then the following might help you join us!
Let's dispel some common myths shall we?
Myth #1: "Mountain biking is just for really fit girls who have always been active. I won't be able to keep up."
FALSE! Everyone starts somewhere and your endurance and skill will build over time. When I started 11 years ago, I was always one of the last ones in the group, and guess what, I didn't care! I was too busy having fun that it didn't matter and it helped push me more than it would have had I gone by myself. Luckily, the group of mostly male riders that I joined were just there to have a good time and encourage everyone that was along for the ride.
Myth #2: "It's too expensive!"
FALSE! While there are some pretty swanky bikes out there, you don't have to start with the best of the best. Whether you have a hard tail or a full suspension bike doesn't matter. Start with what you can afford and as you develop your skills, test out some new bikes and upgrade if and when you're ready. I bought my first mountain bike (aside from the old hand-me-down I had as a teenager) at a bike sale in Fredericton in 2009 and had it for 10 years! Last year I decided that I was ready to invest more into the sport and got a full suspension bike. Not sure if it's for you? Borrow a bike and try it out or head to your local bike shop and test ride before you buy.
Myth #3: "Mountain bikers are 'clicky'"
TRUE! We are! But in a very positive sense of the word. My cycling crew is like family. We help and encourage one another and are always trying to inspire others to give the sport a try. It's so awesome to guide someone's first trip up the bluff (a local trail system here) and see their enthusiasm when they realize that they made it to the top! Something they perhaps thought they couldn't do.
Myth #4: "I'll get hurt!"
Well, maybe! But again, start with what you're comfortable with. It's unfair to expect to be able to do what others who have been riding for many years can do. For me, this is a balance. I often ride with guys who have been into the sport for many years. I enjoy going with these patiently saints, because they help teach me different techniques and ways of approaching certain challenges. I do have to push through certain fears (bridges! steep declines!), but I try to use my head too. Sometimes there are risks, and every ride will look different based on how you're feeling, the weather, etc.
Myth #5: "You need to know everything there is to know about bikes and how they work"
FALSE! I am a self-proclaimed bike-part idiot. I don't know much about how it all works and where it all goes, or anything about bike part anatomy, but hey! that's what bike shops and mechanics are for, right!? On that note I hear there's a bike maintenance course coming up in the near future so I'll be at the front of the class on that one #WhatsAdriveTrain? lol
Myth #6: "You have to look the part"
FALSE! Start with what you've got! A regular t-shirt, pair of comfortable shorts that will allow you to move comfortably, whatever water bottle you can find. Honestly, no one cares. We've all started somewhere (did I already mention that?). I remember the first year I really got into it, I had a pair of spandex shorts that were likely way too short with no shammy pad (they used to weird me out, but then after long hours in the saddle and bumpier rides, I realized I couldn't live without them), a regular t-shirt, which I will oftentimes still wear, (though some people are into moisture wicking fabrics), a metal water bottle with a twist cap, you get the picture. As you get more into it, you'll find things you'll want to upgrade. Most importantly, try not to compare yourself to others, whether it's their ability or their gear. Just don't show up naked.
Myth #7: "It's only for boys"
BULLSHIT! We love the boys in our crew, but there are so many new ladies joining the sport that the boys will soon be outnumbered. Yes, when I started a decade ago, it was mostly boys, but the last year or two there's been such a massive influx of girls getting into the sport that I'd say it's about 50/50 at this point. Often we'll do co-ed rides, other times it's just the girls. (More on our local female-only cycling club below).
In summary, biking, whether it's road, trail, or more technical mountain biking, makes me really f*cking happy. It's this beautiful medley of fitness, being in nature, spending time with friends, and pushing the limits of your mind and body. I am so fortunate to live in a cycling hot spot, where there are endless trails and routes and an even more endless supply of friends to share those experiences with.
If you've always wanted to give biking a try, there are likely groups in your area and reaching out to your local bike shop(s) would be a great place to start. Below is our local women's cycling crew link, where everyone is very friendly and encouraging and will help you get started. And remember, we all started somewhere! Come join us! You'll be happy you did. :)
Sussex TOFU (This One's For U) Bike Club. You can join the group here.
Outdoor Elements is our local bike shop. Whether you're just starting out, or looking to upgrade, they can set you up with the right bike for you and you can test ride them before you buy! Also, you'll find way too many nice things there, so beware. The staff is ok too ;)
If you're a Maritimer looking for some used cycling gear, this group is good too. Just remember that it's important to be set up with the right size of bike, which is where local shops like the one mentioned above can come in handy.