Off-road riding isn't for everyone. You're going to get muddy (in the UK, at least), you're going to crash regularly when starting out (at least the landing is generally softer than on the road!) and you're going to need some new kit to get the most from your rides. The benefits are myriad, though.
You can explore the countryside in peace, without having to worry about close passes and queues forming behind you; not only will your leg muscles get a workout, but so will your upper body, as you wrestle your bike over rocks and roots; plus, you'll be stood up out of the saddle more, which will work different muscles.
JAMES COSTLEY WHITE
James Costley White (aka JCW) is the editor of Mountain Biking UK, Britain's best-selling MTB magazine, and has been an avid offroad rider for over 30 years.
Your skills will improve, too, as you learn to tackle different trail surfaces and features, giving you more confidence when you head back to the tarmac.
Mountain biking or gravel riding are great activities to try during the off season, when it can be hard to stay motivated and put in the miles. At this time of year, the woods are much quieter than the roads, and if you head to one of the UK's many dedicated trail centres, you're assured of a weatherproof surface, waymarked routes and amenities such as a cafe, showers and bike wash.
Yes, you'll probably get dirty, but splashing through puddles under the shelter of the trees is a lot more fun than pedalling into driving rain on the tarmac or spinning life away in your garage. So, let's look at how you can get the most out of taking your bike training off-road this off-season...
10 WAYS TO MASTER RIDING OFF-ROAD
From choosing the right gear to resetting your expectations, here's our complete guide to riding safely and efficiently off-road this off-season...
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