| Mountain bike events can be a great way to ride a | | | | 4. Start using energy bars and drinks (including |
| part of the countryside you wouldn't normally be able | | | | recovery formula) during your training so that your |
| to access and provide an opportunity to meet like | | | | body becomes used to them. Don't suddenly start |
| minded people. Undertaking your first event may be | | | | using a new product on the day from one of the |
| a little daunting but rest assured there will be other | | | | onsite sponsors. Your body may not be used to it |
| first timers and plenty of support on the day. Here | | | | and react badly. |
| are ten tips for riding your first event taken from my | | | | 5. For longer rides use a chamoix cream or vasoline |
| own personal experience of riding and being part of a | | | | to reduce chafing. One of my friends goes by the "if |
| support crew. Take note of these and you will not | | | | it moves vas it!" |
| only complete the race but actually enjoy it as well. | | | | 6. Organise a great support crew to help you get |
| | | | ready, cheer like hell during the event and be there |
| 1. Try to train in similar terrain and conditions to those | | | | to help you recover at the end of the race. |
| which you will experience on the day. | | | | 7. Get to the event early and go for a warm up ride |
| 2. Get your bike in for a service at least a couple of | | | | to get rid of nerves, stretch the legs and undertake |
| weeks before the event to give time for any major | | | | final checks on the bike. |
| repairs. You don't want to waste all that training with | | | | 8. Make sure you know the course and don't rely on |
| an avoidable gear failure on the day and bike shops | | | | those ahead of you to be taking the right turns. |
| can't be expected to turn around a significant job | | | | 9. Ride to your own pace and don't be tempted to |
| with a couple of days notice. | | | | blast after the pros off the start line. Also ride to |
| 3. Ensure your bike is properly set-up for you. Bike | | | | your own ability in any technical sections. |
| shops or sports physios can help with this. Riding a | | | | 10. Have fun, smile lots and banter with your fellow |
| poorly set-up bike at high intensity for a long period | | | | riders - you never know when you might need their |
| will cause you back or leg problems that will take a | | | | help! |
| while to recover from. | | | | |