Running vs. Mountian Bike Riding?
I have been running for the past few years to stay in shape and for my excercise. I have recently discovered mountian biking and I love it. I love it so much that i find myself not running as much. But I have noticed that with mountain biking I am getting almost a full body workout. However, doesn't running and mountain biking get the same out of each. Excercise?
2007-03-26 08:21:51 · 5 answers · asked by wonderbubba9778 1 in Sports ➔ Cycling
Yeah, but stick with the running, that way you won't have to push the bike up the hills.
2007-03-26 08:36:55 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I would suggest that you keep doing both. I do both but the bottom line is this: I run out of necessity because I like to keep the weight off (I'm also military :P), but I mountain bike for sheer enjoyment. It's just bonus points that mountain biking is good for me as well.
Here's the thing though...running will improve your mountain biking but mountain biking doesn't do much for your running.
Overall, running is a better workout because you maintain an overall higher heart rate for a longer period of time than when you ride a bike. You can't coast when you run!!! That translates to better performance on your bike when that next hill sneaks up on you.
But like an earlier responder stated...running is harder on the body than cycling.
What I like to do is use running for the weekly high intensity training session, and MTB for all other sessions during the week. That way, I still get the benefit of running but by mixing in the bike rides I reduce the amount of joint stress that I would normally incur from the runs.
2007-03-29 08:04:25 · answer #2 · answered by iipiki_okami 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
yea. but mountain biking is way cooler because it actually takes skill. it actually works your upper body. it kinda helps build confidence to face some challenges too. a couple of years ago i wouldnt even think about doing half of the stuff i do now. for running u only need to be in shape. for biking u need guts to. so in effect u r working both mind and body
2007-03-26 23:05:07 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
Do both, throw in swimming and become a triathlete!
Running is better for you aerobically but worse on the joints. I do both and love both but I have bad joints to start out with so it's no real sacrifice for me haha!
You can be a multi-sport athlete and this is your chance!!! Keep up the good work, I'll look for you on the course at Ironman some day hehehe!!!
Good luck!
2007-03-26 16:52:25 · answer #4 · answered by Kristy 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
stick with biking its easier on your knees
2007-03-26 15:57:10 · answer #5 · answered by little guy 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋