Everyone Starts Somewhere

Check me out - banana seat, coaster brakes, crooked bangs and helmet that could also double as a cooler!

I first started riding because I finished running track and cross country in college and was looking for something to fill that void. I bought the bike first, then I met the boy (aka, now my husband Luke) who took me out on trails.

I was terrified.

Every log crossing, tight corner or rocky section would send my mind racing. Don't crash on your face. What if you fall. Last time you fell. Why aren't you better at this?!

I would argue with my partner, I would be mad at myself. I saw other people having fun, but I was not one of them. In a moment of exasperation, Luke said, "you need a woman to teach you how to do this." And as luck would have it, I found a women's mountain bike clinic happening the next month. 

That clinic changed everything for me. 

I was still far from a great rider, but I had unlocked the fundamentals of the sport. My self talk when approaching an obstacle went from a spiraling fear of death to empowering and practical thoughts. You can do this. Elbows out. Look where you want to go. Level pedals.

I still crashed, but when I did I was able to look back and analyze my mistakes. Being in charge of your riding and your outcome is inspiring. I was no longer at the mercy of every rock, lock and parking lot curb. I was in control of my bike.

I quickly became hooked and my introduction to the sport through that first clinic is what inspired me to become a mountain bike instructor years later. If you are starting out mountain biking, do yourself a favor and sign up for a clinic, with me or with anyone else. It could be the start of something amazing for you.

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