The physical benefits of mountain biking are well-documented. It builds strength, stamina, and balance as well as burns calories, increases muscle mass, and provides a good cardiovascular workout. However, the benefits don’t stop there. There are distinct mental health benefits that come with mountain biking, too. The Mammoth bike rental providers at ASO Mammoth want to share five concepts supporting this theory further. Each suggestion demonstrates why mountain biking has a positive effect on mental fitness. From boosting brain chemicals to helping you creatively solve pressing issues, physical activity on two wheels is one worth exploring and working into your normal daily routine.
1. Relieves Stress
Having an immediate, ongoing outlet for stress is essential to your overall health and wellness. Whenever life feels like too much to handle, keep in mind you need to change your perspective. Hopping on your mountain bike and going for a long ride allows you to creatively work through your problems and create physical distance between you and the issue troubling you.
2. Increases Endorphins for a Natural High
Endorphins are the chemicals in the brain that help you feel good. If you’ve ever wondered why riding made you feel elated, now you know. The harder you work up a sweat, the more intense the feelings of joy become. Pedal faster knowing you’re seconds away from a natural high.
3. Sparks Creativity
If you want to be inspired, get outdoors and on your mountain bike. Choosing a path you’ve never traveled before exposes you to different scenery, stokes your creative fire, and gives you new ideas to explore. Stepping outside your comfort zone provides new experiences, which also boosts mental strengths such as independence and resiliency.
4. Builds Social Connections
Finding a group of like-minded people to ride with gives you a sense of connection and community that isn’t available online. It makes you feel socially accepted by your peers and allows you to form friendships with people who share similar interests as you. Riding with a group combats loneliness, gives you a purpose, and allows you to step away from your daily obligations.
5. Boosts Self-Esteem
Every time you reach a new goal milestone, your self-worth and self-esteem will skyrocket. You’ll feel incredible mentally and physically. Mountain biking allows success to be yours through deliberate action. Each time you decide to ride your bike instead of sitting on the couch, you’re telling your brain that your health and life matter.
If you don’t own your own bike and are looking for bike rentals in Mammoth Lakes, CA, stop by ASO Mammoth when you get to the mountain. We’ve got everything you need for a fun bike adventure. Give us a call today at 760-965-3444.