So it was part of my winter fitness plan to play in the snow more often. This past weekend I got to do just that. Yay! I love being outside and because I get cold so easily I need to do very active things to make that happen. It’s part of my strategy to make friends with the Canadian winter.
Sarah and I rented fat bikes from a shop near Mont Tremblant and explored the trails. Fun!
On Facebook I asked one question though, “Dear mtb’ers and fat bikers: What is it with trails right along the *edges* of rivers and steep ridges? The woods and the water are just as beautiful a few feet away from the edge.” I think they like the danger. Me, I like the beautiful scenery and moving outdoors in a way that keeps me warm.
(Side note: Turns out when we looked at the maps over coffee one morning this week that the scary “edge of ridge overlooking the river” trail was marked “black” for advanced. We felt better once we saw that all the trails we’d ridden that day were blue or black. I personally felt better about walking the bike across the skinny bridges.)
Yes, I fell a few times. Whee! Thump! I’ve got some bruises. I always do. But falling in the snow felt just fine.
Is it a good workout? Well, it’s no replacement for time on the indoor trainer. That’s true. But there is only so much of that I can take. My average heart rate was 130 something, not as good as running or cross country skiing but better than walking or sitting on the couch. Also, my cheek muscles hurt from smiling and that’s got to count for something.
Here’s some information on the trails.
I’m still on the fence about buying a fat bike. They’re expensive and I think it’s something I’ll continue to do a few times each winter. Renting is easy and there’s no need to lug a fat bike around.
See past posts:
Winter Biking: So Hot Right Now!
Fat bikes: Taking a break from the trainer to go riding in the snow!
