This winter, I'm trying... the fatbike!

What physical benefits does this sport bring you?

Daniel: It’s a very complete leisure activity. As well as maintaining cardiovascular fitness, it stimulates reflexes, motor skills, balance and muscles…

Marie-Philippe: Cycling also has the advantage of being gentler on the joints than running, for example.

What advice would you give to someone wishing to take up cycling for the first time?

Marie-Philippe: Respect your limits. Fatbikes quickly bring you back to your own physical condition. It’s demanding when you begin. If you can’t go up a hill because you don’t have the legs for it, you have to push back on your pride and go up it on foot. You have to be gentle with yourself… and enjoy nature and the scenery.

Daniel: Absolutely! I started at 62. That gives you an idea! It’s like cross-country skiing, it requires a minimum of physical fitness. The trails are classified by level of difficulty, so all you have to do is go where your skills and desires take you.

Marie-Philippe: The hills can be scary, but people need to know that snow softens surfaces. It’s like riding on clouds.

Should you invest a lot of money in equipment before hitting the trails?

Daniel: The ideal is to rent a bike before buying one. After that, you go according to your budget. You can start with an entry-level bike and then upgrade to a more expensive model with more features, if you have the passion…

Marie-Philippe: With a bike or ski helmet, a good pair of gloves and goggles, you’re ready to ride!