If you’re going mountain biking, taking a camping trip to hit the trails, or you’ve signed up for a bike marathon, there are certain steps you should take to prepare. You need to get your mind and body in shape. And you need to be sure you’ve got all the proper gear to make the big trip a success. With proper training and some foresight, your next big outing can be a success.
San Diego’s year-round weather and trail variety make it one of the best cities in California for mountain biking and endurance cycling.
Updated for 2026: This guide is designed for riders training for a mountain biking trip or endurance cycling event in real-world conditions like hills, heat, and long climbs (common in San Diego). Use it as a simple checklist for fitness, gear, fueling, and race-day strategy.
If you’re planning a biking-focused lifestyle in San Diego, neighborhood choice matters – especially if you want quick access to trails, bike lanes, and walkable local amenities. For a deeper look at one of San Diego’s most popular central neighborhoods, see our North Park community guide.
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Get fit
No matter the terrain – a dirt path or a paved road – any long-distance cycling requires different types of training. Functional training is a key component. The goal is to train the muscles and respiratory systems to be ready when called upon. It’s important to allocate time on the bike and include repeated hill climbs. You can also train off the bike. For example, kettlebell training engages the entire body while targeting the large muscle groups vital for biking.
San Diego Training Tips: Hills, Heat, and Trail Variety
Training in San Diego gives riders a big advantage because they can build endurance year-round. The key is planning your rides around three things: climbing, heat, and trail surface changes. For mountain biking trips and endurance cycling events, focus on consistent hill work (not just mileage), practice riding when slightly fatigued, and train hydration like it’s race day. If you can handle sustained climbs and warm conditions here, you’ll feel much stronger on event day.
Of course, it’s important to train at a safe, gradual, and tapered pace. Don’t start with 15 miles if you’ve only been biking two or three.
“The best way to monitor your training increments is by totaling the mileage ridden each week, but training is not just about miles,” says Total Women’s Cycling.
Not all biking is downhill or on flat surfaces, so ride the hills and push your limits to ensure you can more easily handle the ascents on the big day. There are many bike trails in and around San Diego that you can enjoy, several of which are ranked as “easy” or “moderate” by Calfornia.com. Find one that speaks to you and get to know it!
If you’re also interested in living in a neighborhood where you can walk to coffee shops, parks, and everyday essentials (even on recovery days), check out our guide to walkable neighborhoods in San Diego.
Restful training is equally important in order to give your muscles a break. On rest days, don’t go full-veg; consider moderate activities such as climbing stairs to your office or brisk walking around the neighborhood.
Get race-ready
For a marathon, being race-prepared is crucial, and that means getting in the right mindset. Think of a strategy that will help you complete the race. You want to be able to properly pace yourself to have the energy for the final push. Doing a smaller event before the marathon gives you a test run and a chance to resolve any hitches before the big race, so you’ll go into the main event with more confidence.
Get a tune-up
Having your bike in tip-top shape is also crucial. REI.com notes that a professional bike fitting can help you ride more efficiently, experience less muscle aches and pains, and feel greater overall comfort. You should also get your bike serviced and properly cleaned. As far as equipment, all you really need during a marathon is one bottle cage, a few energy gels, and a spare pack. Mountain biking requires additional gear, including a multi-tool, zip ties, and a first-aid kit.
Eat right
During training, and especially in the days leading up to the race, it’s important to follow a balanced diet, watch nutritional intake, and stay well hydrated. Be careful not to over-hydrate. During a race, this can be as dangerous as dehydration. Getting adequate rest during training and the days leading up to the race is also imperative.
Whether you’ll hit the trails for a mountain bike excursion or race down the road for a bike marathon, you should be adequately prepared. Take the time to prepare your mind and body for the trip. Plan ahead to ensure you have the right equipment and gear. A big race or a long outing is exciting and a real accomplishment. Set a goal for yourself and execute it.
FAQs
- How many weeks should I train for a bike marathon?
Most riders do best with 8 to 12 weeks of structured training, especially if the course includes long climbs. - What’s the best fueling strategy for endurance rides?
Start fueling early. Most riders do best eating every 30 to 45 minutes and using electrolytes in warm weather. - What should I do the week before my event?
Reduce volume, keep short rides easy, prioritize sleep, and avoid experimenting with new gear or nutrition. - Do I need a professional bike fitting?
If you’re riding long distance, yes. A fitting can prevent knee, back, and wrist pain and improve efficiency.
In San Diego, proximity to outdoor activities like biking trails and open space isn’t just a lifestyle perk – it’s often part of what drives long-term neighborhood demand. If you want a deeper look at a community where walkability and lifestyle are major value factors, check out our North Park community guide for housing insights and local real estate trends.