mentalsplit

hello,

I am pretty much brand new to the sport of mountain biking. I live in Santa Cruz, California -- so there are a ton of trails here I have been trying.

Here is my question: Can any of the more experienced riders give me fitness suggestions. I have been having a serious problem with my lung capacity -- I get winded very easily. I am not in great shape, but I am not in terrible shape either. I realize that I can drop some weight and that that should make it easier on my body. I am wondering if anyone has any suggestions for me, ie. different excercises which you might use to suppliment your bike riding, diet / nutrition, or other activities to specifically improve cardio-vascular fitness. I have the most trouble on the steep uphill portions (I realize also that may be normal).

I apologize in advanced for the seeming stupidity of this post.

thanks,