Summertime is the most popular time of year for mountain biking and hiking. Connecting with nature and exploring beautiful landscapes is rejuvenating for body, mind, and spirit. 

Preparation

Planning to pedal away or hike around for hours? Before an intensive activity such as hiking or mountain biking, make it a habit to warm up your muscles before exercising and cool down your muscles post-exercise. Stretch it out and prepare yourself for a fun day of outdoor activity.

Hydration

Bring plenty of water and start your ride hydrated. It might sound obvious, but staying hydrated is essential for muscle recovery. Water keeps the fluids moving through your system, which can help ease inflammation, flush out toxins, and deliver your muscles the nutrients they need.

Prevention

A day of physical activity and exercise is invigorating; however when it involves more intensive movement than what we are used to, sore muscles set in, and the aftermath can be quite uncomfortable. Taking some preventative measures before you start mountain biking or hiking will help you minimize the risk of muscle injuries and ease you into the flow of things.

Tip: Apply CBD cooling gel on areas you experience soreness and strain before and after your ride or hike. A blast of CBD and cooling essential oils will help you move with ease and comfort your joints and muscles.

Common Sore Spots for Mountain Bikers:

• • • Knees
    • Lower back
    • Neck and shoulders

Common Sore Spots for Hikers:

• • • Feet
    • Shoulders
    • Knees

Stretch Before You Play

Before you pedal away or hike around for hours, stretch it out and ease your body into the movement. Jumping into any exercise with cold muscles can cause injury and unnecessary strain. 

Mountain biking is a full-body workout and takes a lot out of you. Stretching and warming up are crucial before a ride and will help prevent injuries. Click here for a mountain biker’s guide to stretching. 

Hitting a trail on foot? Give your whole body a warm-up and pump those muscles to perform at their best. Click here for the best stretches before you hike.

Post Hiking and Mountain Biking Recovery Tips:

1. Eat a healthy protein-packed meal within half an hour.
2. Apply CBD Cooling Gel to the heavily worked areas.
3. Use a foam roller.
4. Have an Epsom salt bath to reduce inflammation.
5. Take CBD for muscle and joint support.
6. Get quality sleep at night for optimal muscle repair.