If you grew up like me, riding my friend’s dirt bike and craving the adrenaline rush of navigating trails in the woods: consider giving mountain biking or trail running a try. The thrill is still there — but now it comes with a powerful endorphin rush and lasting health benefits. Moving fast through winding trails while exercising delivers a dopamine hit that sitting on a machine just can’t match.
A new quad costs around $8,500, plus fuel and maintenance. Compare that to a mid-range mountain bike at $2,500 or trail shoes for $125—no fuel required.
I won’t sugarcoat it: aerobic trail exercise can feel tough at first and yes, you can still get injured. Start at a pace where you can talk while moving to avoid getting out of breath and being discouraged. Stick with it; your stamina builds fast. You’ll feel stronger, more energized, and see real changes in your health and self-image.
What surprised me most was how trail sports connect me to nature. I now notice wildlife, terrain, and seasons in ways I never did on a dirt bike. On hikes, you’ll see even more.
I’m not here to preach—just to encourage you to give non-motorized trail sports a try. Your body, brain, wallet, and trails will thank you.
Don Weise
West Milford
