Back in January, I purchased a Mt Bike. I had owned one when I was a teenager, and wanted to get into riding again. When I was a teenager though I pretty much stuck to the roads, as I had a Huffy Stone Mountain.

Well I've been wanting to hit some of the trails around here but wasn't sure where they are. So I've been riding my Fuji Nevada 3.0 on the roads, and occasionally on the grass. Well yesterday, I finally found the Mt Bike trails here at Ft Rucker. WOW. Some of the obsticals were way beyond my skill level. It was a fun ride though. I had to stop alot to rest, and it REALLY WORE me out. I felt really tired and great afterwards. I don't know how many miles I did though. I think only like two or three. I'll have to do it again sometime!
The trail map is really hard to read. They have three difficulty levels and I have no idea what one I was on. The signage and following the trail was a little confusing as there were junctions and what not. But it was still fun.

Congrats!

Consider buying this book, it'll teach you some techniques-- on paper at least, then you'll know what to do and be able to start trying to do it.

https://www.amazon.com/Mastering-Moun.../dp/0736083715

Great to hear about your adventure! Trail riding works your whole body like no other exercise. You will have fun and get a killer work. Enjoy them trails!

Sounds like my first trip to the local mtb trail! Didn't even know they existed until someone pointed them out to me. First time out I didn't even wear a helmet (yup - I was that clueless). I rode two sections of the easy side of our local trails (West Branch SP, OH). I had to rest a lot, and walk my bike up most of the hills. It took me an hour and 20 minutes to make my loop.

Now five years later I can ride every hill on the trails (except for my nemesis - climb out of the gorge). And that loop I rode the first time I can now ride in less than 20 minutes.

BTW check out youtube for mtb skills videos - there are some really good ones for beginners.

Keep on riding!!!

Steve Z