SLU Cycling

Buying a used mountain bike is a great way for curious beginners to get into the sport and for seasoned pros to upgrade and continue participating in the sport they love. There are literally hundreds of suitable bike models out there so how do you go about buying the right mountain bike to suit your needs?

Initially you need to understand what type of mountain bike cyclist you intend to be. Arguably mountain bikes fit into the following categories: All Terrain (Trail Bikes), Freeride, Downhill (DH), and finally Cross Country (XC).

If you intend to cycle on hard terrain and tricks are your thing then consider a Free-ride bike. Being the heaviest of all bikes you will find Free-ride bikes not suitable for long rides on flat terrain where comfort will be more of a priority. Lightweight construction bikes like the Cross Country (XC) are amazingly efficient but recommended for uneven terrain. If exciting Downhill racing appeals to you then the specialized Downhill (DH) bikes will be for you.

If you are starting out in mountain biking then initially I recommend an All Terrain mountain bike. Remember once you become a more experienced cyclist you can upgrade and buy a more specialized bike. A well made All Terrain bike will enable you to try out most of your local trails.

Arguably one of the most common questions asked when starting out in mountain biking is Full Suspension or Hard-tail? Hard-tail bikes have only rear suspension whereas Full Suspension has front and rear suspension as the name implies. You will find that Hard-tail bikes are often lighter and require less maintenance. Full Suspension bikes will often more expensive than Hard Tail bike but if you are starting out I fully recommend Full Suspension bikes as they will be much more comfortable and your derrière will thank you for it in the long term.

Before you buy a used mountain bike check out your local area for suitable trails as this could have a big impact on your decision. For example if your idea of mountain biking includes exciting downhill trails but you live in a mostly flat area then DH bikes will not for you. If in doubt check out the local dealer, ask around and participate on internet forums. The more informed you become the better decision you will likely end up making.

Finally be realistic about the type of mountain bike cyclist you want to be and I guarantee you will buy the ideal bike to suit your needs and be cycling for many fun years to come.

By: Gary Young

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Olympic lifting can be a very good change for those that want to try something different. These exercises are not as isolated as regular bodybuilding routines. Typically each exercise incorporates just about every muscle in the body. The emphasis on this type of training is strength.

Clean Pulls: This exercise starts with the barbell on the ground. You bend/squat down, grip the bar and lift the bar up as high as you can. With the momentum of the bar moving up, you try to get under the bar, so your grip is essentially hold the bar up in the air at chest level. This works the legs, back, core and arms.

Power Snatch: This exercise is just like the clean pull, with just one added feature. You’ll want to bend/squat down, grip the bar and lift the bar up as high as you can. With the momentum of the bar moving up, you’ll get under the bar and allow your grip to hold up the bar. At this point, you’re to push the bar up above your head like a military press. This will complete the power snatch.

Front Squat: The front squat is a little awkward at first, but can be very effective. Basically you want to hold the bar with your arms and chest. Sort of like the position you’re in at the end of a clean pull. From that position you squat up and down. Be careful with this since the bar will be in front of you, rather than behind you, like in a regular squat.

These are three great Olympic weightlifting routines to try and you’ll see they’re very challenging.

By: Charles Nash

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