Reader,

Let’s face it—this Alberta summer has been soggy. And while our loamy trails are normally a dream to ride, many are clay-based and turn into peanut butter when it rains. Riding them when saturated doesn’t just suck—it causes major trail damage that takes serious volunteer hours and dollars to fix.

So, while we all want to ride, being a good trail steward means knowing when to say, “Not today, dirt.” But that doesn’t mean giving up your riding fitness or flow.

Here are smart, trail-friendly ways to keep the pedals turning while conditions dry out:

1. Pump Tracks: Small Laps, Big Gains

Yes, the pump track! Calgary and surrounding areas have some fantastic community pump tracks. They’re not just for kids or BMXers—these are skill goldmines for mountain bikers.

Even a few 20-minute sessions a week can:

• Sharpen timing and balance
• Build cardio and leg stamina
• Transfer directly to trail skills (seriously, your corners and trail pop will feel better)

Ride your hardtail, trail bike, or anything you've got. Dirt jumpers are great, but not required.

2. Hop on the Trainer (Yes, Even in Summer)

I get it, trainers = winter mode. But let’s be honest - you devoted 3-4 hours with travel for a mountain bike ride. A focused 60-90 minute indoor session can improve your fitness in way less time.

Want structure? I’ve got indoor trainer sessions available as part of the MTB Strength Club. Get on, sweat, done.

3. Get in the Gym

Skipping strength work in summer? You’re not alone—but it’s a mistake. Without strength, your power, control, and durability take a hit.

2x/week is enough to:

• Stay strong and injury-resistant
• Keep your riding sharp and confident
• Avoid starting from scratch in fall

Our MTB Strength Club Online includes in-season training that fits in your week—no guesswork, no fluff. Just solid work and long-term gains. $49/month, cancel anytime.

4. Mix in Other Riding

Ride your gravel bike, road bike, even your mountain bike on paved or gravel paths. Cruise the pathways. Go full commuter. Play on curbs. Hit natural features in your neighborhood. Manual, bunny hop, wheelie, goof around.

It might not be your big epic—but it's still movement, still skill, and still fun.

5. Try a New Sport or Reacquaint With an Old One.

The silver lining to being trail-blocked? A chance to move differently.

Try:

• Climbing – builds grip and body control
• Basketball or soccer – especially when fields dry quicker than trails
• Skating or hockey
• Hiking or trail running (only on durable surfaces, please!)

There's so much evidence that participating in multiple sports helps kids develop as athletes. Adults need variety too to maintain movement ability as life long athletes. Movement diversity makes you more resilient on the bike—and it just feels good.

6. Hit the Road (Literally)

When local trails are unrideable, BC is a half-day drive away. Fernie, Golden, Invermere often get less rain in the summer and their terrain can handle more moisture.

Watch trail reports and conditions—then rally your crew and go make a weekend of it.

Don’t Let a Rainy July Wreck Your Whole Season

Keep the mindset of movement. Progress doesn’t require perfection. Riding your trainer, pumping laps, or hitting the gym still counts. And often, this is the stuff that gives you an edge when things dry up again.

The riders who stay consistent through these weeks are the ones who feel strong, ready, and injury-resistant when the trails come back online.

Want to join a crew that’s doing just that?

👉 Jump into the MTB Strength Club Online — flexible, affordable training that keeps you strong, fit, and riding-ready all summer.

MTB Strength Club Custom 1-1 Coaching Training Plans Injury Rehab Appointment ​​​

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