I've Started To Hate Mountain Biking

[@PaulThePunter]

Thanks for everyone’s support on my videos, it really means a lot! Jerseys and gloves? Click here 👉 bit.ly/PunterStore

[@mattis6437]

Just remember that we follow your channel for you, Paul the person.

[@XxjoeyxXify]

Paul, we love you, we support you, and we hope you can fall in love with mountain biking again. Everyone needs a reset.

[@kingdaniel69]

Firstly, i recognise it must be difficult for you and it must have been difficult to talk about this so openly. I think your mood may well be dysthymic (I'm a psychiatric nurse) although you don't meet the two-year diagnostic threshold, you're NOT clinically depressed from what I can see. You've taken a fun hobby and made it your job so, of course, it becomes a job.... blurgh. Covid hasn't helped, we're all stuck in the same sort of time bubble with little moving forward, but it'll get better. You may have lost some fitness but as an Englishman living in NSW we often have heatwaves similar to what you're experiencing and I really struggle in the heat and I'm generally a fit mountain biker and road biker. Take a step back, try some mindfulness or meditation. Think about what you enjoyed about the sport in the beginning and focus on that. Eat healthily, talk to your friends/family, sleep well and if you still feel low maybe see a counselor to just to take stock. All the best, Daniel.

[@justinneufeld5623]

if you hate mtb can i have ur bike?

[@mmodtomic7119]

@ 16:20 I couldn't find any gloves/jersey deal on the merch page.

[@AprilRideMTB]

Hey Paul, thanks for making this video. It cool to hear your thoughts and I think a lot of people have been struggling over this past year. Mountain biking is such a huge community and exploration based sport and everyone having to be so separate the past year it’s been a different feel for sure. I know for me I can totally relate to the “how many times can I ride the same trail” thing. Especially after being used to traveling and racing 20+ times a year. I can’t wait until we can come up to Canada again and ride some fun stuff with you and if you feel like riding some fast flowy trails come back down to Idaho and visit when you can. Your stoke will come back, sometimes it just takes a little break from things to really appreciate them again! Keep your head up. Kyle

[@PaulThePunter]

We’ll ride together if coming down to Sedona fest goes to plan :)

[@WesMacaulay]

Would love to give you guys a tour of our local trails :)

[@A.D.D.O.C.D.T]

The gods right here 🤘🤘👑👑

[@ericjones7983]

Kyle, I appreciate your positivity man! Not everyone can manage such a positive comment

[@OzyMark]

Hey Kyle, I posted a reply for Paul that I think I sent to yourself & April. Apart from the psychology side biochemistryhas a huge part to do with it. Myokines are a recently found chemical signalling. But instead of me trying to explain it. Dr Doug McGuff is a incredible guy who explains it in this Podcast. . kzbin.info/www/bejne/l5rIYnSder2cobs

[@BIKINGWITHBOBO]

The struggle is real buddy! Especially when you turn your passions into your job. 🤘

[@PaulThePunter]

🤌

[@trimwus]

I honestly think it is a risky path, turning a passion into a job - as it can take away the joy. I MTB to escape, relax, have fun, its an outlet. I can't imagine losing that outlet, by turning it into a job or a living. Kudos to those of you who can make it work, because I love your content!

[@chiccorocker]

very true. I had the passion for Linux and IT tech when a teen... now I'm a 10+ years of experience IT dude... I hate computers. But love mountain biking :D

[@paulwintermute1495]

Sportbikes (motorcycles) were my life. I road raced with the AFM for years, went to Motorcycle Mechanics school and became a mechanic. Now 20 years later I never ride motorcycles on the weekends and I quit racing years ago. I absolutely love mountain biking however and get out when ever I can Life is all about balance. Take a break. Mix things up.

[@joeze9328]

Take a hardtail and the trails will seem like a new beast!

[@PorterMTB]

That’ll happen for sure, my solution has always been to ride different trails and style and try new stuff, as well as mix it up between jumping and XC and DH, keeping it interesting. Also, I don’t ride much during the winter, just snowboard and play in the snow, so I come back super excited for bikes in the spring! Looking forward to riding with you this year hopefully! 👊

[@martinshortt7750]

Rigid Single Speed - a change of bike always helps.

[@AnthonyOrtega-ki4mx]

@@martinshortt7750 makes easy trails fun/hard again

[@RyandeMilliano]

I appreciate this take a lot, I always like to look forward to a sport; whether it's snowboarding in the winter, biking in the summer or triathlon training in the transitions. Thanks Eric, good to hear it coming from a pro, keep making great content!

[@AZMTB]

Sometimes you just gotta go for a cruise with no goal in mind, no agenda, no filming, go get a little lost and explore.

[@motov8-garage832]

That's also great life advice 👍 Goes for more then mtn biking.

[@ocjimleonard]

quite true, exploy new trails spur of the moment is one of the best...

[@planesandbikes7353]

I agree totally. but then here in coastal BC there is no such thing as a 'go for a cruise' trail, unlike Arizona. It's mostly an all in commitment to the jank here.

[@sgazzz]

When what you were doing for fun becomes a job, it does change how much joy you get from it sadly...

[@gatoryak7332]

@@sgazzz IOW: Don't turn your avocation into your vocation.

[@marysullivan1588]

Sounds like some depression. Go and talk to someone you trust . My best friend had life long depression and he committed suicide in January . I know it’s hard for people to deal with and admit they are depressed but don’t let yourself go down that rabbit hole of hell . All the best to you .

[@mitchellmoretz8953]

Came into the comments to say something similar. Could be job related stress, but it sounds a bit like depression. Would definitely be worth having a conversation with a doctor, mental health is no joke

[@FamousByFriday]

I agree so much. I heard “I hate something I love”, coupled with what seems to be a vague feeling that something is wrong, while minimizing it, then add that “I think I’m hard to work with…” blaming himself for it. I think it’s important for people to realize that depression doesn’t look like one thing. Sometimes it’s can’t get out of bed and sometimes it’s not enjoying things. Sometimes it’s moments of a lot of fun mixed in with, I’m a burden on my friends and family. We’re living through weird times. Check on your friends.

[@graysonadams2485]

The good thing is that for most people, depression is like the common cold for mental health; it comes and goes

[@eyeop3n1ng]

Rip ur best friend

[@dano6201]

Agreed this is what I was thinking! Biking is actually what takes away my depression and stress!

[@MTBRoyale]

Sounds like depression Paul - please don't be afraid to ask for help

[@KadenButler42]

@MTB Royale I can’t tell if you are joking

[@NickyNicest]

Facts I’m depressed af

[@MTBRoyale]

@@NickyNicest Hope you can find the energy to get some help

[@jakebarnes3054]

​@@NickyNicest How you feeling, stranger? Things get any better?

[@WesMacaulay]

I think being with a group of friends and getting out to trails together - and going out for a beer or food after, and just talking to other people about how we're REALLY doing - and encouraging each other - that can help bring the joy back to riding.

[@conman1395]

"I don't wanna cal it burnout" then proceeds to describe classic symptoms of burnout 😂 in all honesty tho, care for yourself man. I understand you have some responsibilities as a sponsored rider, but your personal health should still be the priority.

[@trialsrob214]

Hi Paul, the struggle is real. Not just for a Mtb KZbin er, I’m 59 now and sitting here with a separated shoulder. I crashed not in some big mega send it moment but just a silly stupid thing. I remember when I got tired and deeply depressed after 18 years of racing Mx. I just quit and walked away. The joy was gone, I got into Mtb riding and road biking for health reasons and I’m always asking my friends “don’t you guys ever just go for a ride and enjoy the scenery and the pleasure of being outside “ seems the response is always the same the just want to hammer away at the trails. I’ve never been interested in xc riding before but 4 years ago I went to visit family in colorado and I started checking out xc rides that would just take me out in the forest for the beauty of of it and I just ride alone and at my own pace and I find I really am loving it. I still go ride with friends but I’m the slowest in the group and I really hate being hurt. Oh, my only local trails are only 6 miles of swamp and I usually don’t ride Mtb unless it’s cool as I hate summer, sucks living in the southern USA, I really enjoy your videos that teach other riders, it’s great to give back to the community and I think it’s a great way to bring your joy back

[@planesandbikes7353]

exactly my sentiments too! I'm in BC but covet the US XC trails very much. No one wants to build them here, at all.

[@asquare9316]

Agree with everything you said. I'm 65, been riding off road for 30 years or so, and I've just always liked to go out and ride through the woods, at my own pace. For me, it's not about speed, it's about riding through the woods and getting some quiet time. (I absolutely hate i9 and King hubs, way tooo loud, sometimes I come upon people with these hubs and I can't wait to get away from them). Anyway, I also do road riding (weekends only these days as I am afraid of the way people are driving cars these days) but bike riding is just one thing I do. Windsurfing and sailing are my two biggest hobbies during the warmer months and I love skiing in the colder months. Anyway, a perfect day for me in warmer weather is a bike ride through the woods in the morning followed by windsurfing in the afternoon. Been getting into stupid situations lately like falling over on my mtb at very slow speed and getting a huge laceration on my ankle area which kept me doing fun things for like 3 weeks. Maybe it's age, I don't know, I hope not. Have fun out there!!!

[@trialsrob214]

A friend of mine asked me why I don’t want to compete in local events or whatever, my response I don’t have anything left to prove my ego died a long time ago

[@marks-0-0]

@@asquare9316 100% agree. I'm still to get back into the mtb and road club rides i did weekly before Covid. I will start again of course as cycling in whichever discipline for me will be for life. When you have a break from anything though the weeks slip by and its hard to start up again. I also agree its good to have complimentary hobbies and interests to keep things fresh and for cross fitness. I love swimming, love/hate running and want to take up paddleboarding and hiking on occassion.

[@GPMcGee]

Very honest vid, I think we've all felt like this at some point. I reckon you need a break from KZbin, get out there and try enjoying some bike time without a camera.

[@PathLessPedaledTV]

Can relate.

[@marcalvarez4890]

As someone who's dealt with depression, this sounds like depression. Changing to new activities is a good healthy thing to do. Also be sure to get enough sleep, eat well, and connect with some people who love you. Respect, brother. : )

[@squeezablemayonnaise8904]

I 100% agree. This definitely sounds like depression. I do the exact same thing on my bad days or weeks sometimes.

[@SurpriseMeJT]

The demands of KZbin killed his love for what started as his hobby.

[@Jaredcouture12676]

I’ve been in the same funk for over a year. Covid has changed everything. I love the quiet enjoyment of the woods and now there are way too many people out there. Can’t even park my car close half the time. Trails in my area a really getting dumbed down too. Maybe I’ll snap out of it.

[@Montezuma0]

I like to jump on the road bike whenever I'm bored of mountain biking... and vice versa. I know lots of mtbers look down at road but it's actually pretty fun and provides a whole new avenue of riding to explore

[@karlmccosmo6041]

I'm the same, good switching it up a bit, hiking is great too. All the best (and fittest) local enduro riders also ride road.

[@motelsuicide7048]

This, I brought a single speed. Have done many miles on it when I need a break from the trails. Feels like I'm exploring my area like never before on it.

[@ianfurqueron5850]

Same here. What I enjoy about road riding is simply rolling out my front door and not really having any plan on how long/far I'll ride and when I'll get home. Sometimes, it's 40 miles. Sometimes 100 miles. While I generally enjoy mtn biking as a social activity with friends, on the road I prefer just me and my thoughts. Fortunately, I have many miles of semi-rural rolling roads in SE PA and NJ to ride on where car traffic is tolerable.

[@motelsuicide7048]

@@ianfurqueron5850 Exactly, I open my garage and boom I'm on my way. At the time I brought the bike I also had a lot of problems with my mtb, parts failing ect. It was so nice riding something so simple.

[@154Jamesp]

Same here. Plus, it's easy to get an intense workout very quickly on the road if that's what you want to do. Other evenings I'm scooting around the local park on my hybrid just enjoying the fresh air and waning sunshine.

[@winjinsinjon]

i've been out of biking for years due to my health, i had cancer and lost a lung, i spent 10 years feeling sorry for myself and putting weight on, i've recently been trying to get back into it and im hating it, i cant ride like i used to and never will be any where near the level i used to be but im sticking with it.

[@gonzo221]

For me, mountain biking is the one sport that is really hard to love when your fitness level isn't where you want it to be. Even more so then snowboarding. The beginning of the season is always hardest for me because of it. But once you start getting that stamina and strength back there's nothing else like it. Thanks for the video Paul!

[@thebrowns5337]

Yep. My son is now fitter, more able and more confident than me and thats awesome...but also, when we ride trails together, makes me feel I need to work harder to feel the enjoyment in terms of the trail. Still love the time together though and don't want to lose that, ever.

[@James-hh1lq]

All the hassle of travelling and cleaning your bike and way expensive bikes put me off for life

[@Projectnortheast]

We all go through this not just us youtubers but all riders. Our list of trails we really want to ride as we progress gets smaller and smaller and sometimes we just need to take a brake but also fill in with other activities. Having a family personally I value just about every ride as we are so busy. But when we get in a funk sometimes we need to ride a trail that just awakens those endorphins and feel alive again!

[@timwesterman9250]

can totally relate was a mountain biker through and through till last year. now on the road bike most of the time the trails where I live is just now full of walkers who either have no awareness so will just step out or people who think they have a right to tell you where you can pr can ride. on a camera note, I've got an insta go 2 recently and am loving it. it's way smaller than the gopros and seems to have pretty good stabilization.

[@steezymtb5876]

I have been dealing with the same thing. Tried a bike park for the first time ever in May, absolutely loved it, bought a season pass and haven't been back since. Haven't actually even touched my mountain bikes since. Luckily found joy in fixed gear riding, so it's still bikes and that's enough for me. But something feels devastating about it. I'm sure I'd love it if I only got out on my MTB, but there's just something that feels too much work about it atm. I can just pick up my fixed gear and head out, mountain biking would require so much more preparation. Wish all the best to you Paul, surely we'll get over it.

[@finleytaylor6614]

i've really felt the same recently and so glad someone else has brought this up as to some it is a stupid thought

[@dansartin]

Get yourself a hardtail and you‘ll enjoy mountain biking again.

[@rmkennedy4965]

Shut up hardtail boy

[@dansartin]

@@rmkennedy4965 🤣

[@matmckee1]

@@rmkennedy4965 hard tails can be goated

[@mrsmartypants_1]

Gotta agree with Kennedy. What the dude is going thru HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH the f’ing bike he is riding 😏

[@rmkennedy4965]

@@mrsmartypants_1 true that

[@shiramano]

As a 9 to 5er in a corporate type job... This actually makes me feel a little better. I feel this way often even though I know I'm super lucky to have my job and dream about just doing something mountain biking related for work. At the end of the day though, a job is a job and eventually it will cause some burnout or lose some luster.

[@dukeofmtb]

Having a channel is no different than any job after a while. You get all the stress and anxiety, but only a fraction of the pay. Burnout is just as common as it is in any "regular" job.

[@bikeninja956]

I don't know how people can do that one thing 24/7, never made sense to me.....take a break from it for a bit dude, the love will come back, that goes for marriage, work, and everything else!

[@andyrichardson4710]

So true!

[@maxceballos1644]

Also, find a fresh sport like skating or surfing

[@peter-zs4ml]

take a break from marriage. wouldn't that be something... bwahaha

[@bikeninja956]

​@@peter-zs4ml LMAO....I wouldn't know but trust me, I can imagine.......LMAO..

[@MloVisual]

How you take a break from marriage? Lol didn’t even know you could?!

[@IDoBlues]

Going to the same restaurant and eating the same thing. You aren't the first to talk about it. Singletrack Sampler has stepped away. BCpov went from weekly to bi-weekly. I can't see how the push to pump out vids weekly can't have some effect on the stoke after a while. Great call with getting some golf in for balance. Sometimes you need some North Shore jank to appreciate the Squamish smooth coasters. I'm heading into surgery next week and my dream for recovery is to hit Corkscrew & Pingu again! (that part of the vid was great btw!)

[@RyanRidesPGH]

Thanks for the update and honesty. I've been there but without the added pressure of needing to make videos. I don't want to get too personal but I would suggest a therapist if you're not already seeing one!

[@gilhernandez1007]

Thank you for sharing your story. You seem to have such honest self awareness. Walk or ride your path where your heart takes you.

[@T-Crack]

Ask Giant for a Gravel bike, go ride it and don’t film. Just enjoy being on a bike.

[@hubertbhatnagar9241]

No

[@ShoneDaddy]

I went through this last year, my passion just slowly came back on its own. Don’t stress yourself about it if you find yourself going through this.

[@DurpeeSlurpee]

As others have said, this sounds like depression. Some of the questions they ask you to determine if you’re depressed “Do the things you used to like no longer interest you?” and “do you feel like you don’t have the energy to get up in the morning?”

[@ThunderWarrior77]

Recently leaving mountain biking behind has been a pretty difficult leave. This video really helped me remember all the reasons why and there's more for why other hobbies or things to do with your life or extra spare time way better than mountain biking

[@jaywayize]

Been there as well Paul, I had a year off the bike got back into riding and 6 months later fell into another funk, so I started a couple of different sports wakeboarding and snowboarding and what it made me realize is that i fell in love with mtb due to progression! learning new techniques and getting good at them kept me coming back for more. Took that back to riding and it’s been the most fun I ever had! Good luck Paul you will back and better than ever!!

[@flatlandbiking]

I have felt the same. I live in the 2nd flattest State in the US, so there is not a lot of enjoyable mountain bike riding around here. So what I did was over Independence Day weekend I visited 13 different trail systems in four different States. I climbed over 5000', which is not a lot for anyone who lives near actual mountains, but for a flatlander, it was something new. I also started racing XC, which put me on new trails, meeting new people and finding joy in riding again. I have also began putting more miles on my gravel bike, and have taken it to some of the local MTB trails for a little added excitement.

[@alanduren6326]

i feel similar but for the reason of having no trails to ride

[@trailfork7815]

this, where I live people ride mountainbikes on the road and there is no trail crew... past few months ive been digging myself a trail which has brought me back

[@BikingwithJP]

I feel you on no trails! During more strict COVID times I’d taken to making my own “trail”… rocks 🪨 at the school outdoor class or blocking cars from gravel trails became features to climb over, playground edges and curbs are skinnies, when the river dries up enough it’s a rock garden - or even worse, when it’s not dry an underwater rock garden. Even a dried up drainage ditch is my half pipe… then if you have a “Your Speed” sign, that’s really a top speed run (51kph is my max on my MTB!). It’s something at least when I can’t get to actual trails. Good luck 🤘

[@rossgirven5163]

@@BikingwithJP near my house there is a steep hill that at a push I can hit 62kph 😁 Scary fun!

[@BikingwithJP]

@@rossgirven5163 that is fast! What bike? On my Trek Fuel EX 8 29er I can’t seem to spin my legs much faster - maybe a few more kph like 55 with no headwind (strong the day I tested)… but the bigger problem I have is gearing - I can’t pedal any faster! Maybe I need a huuuge hill 👹

[@rossgirven5163]

@@BikingwithJP voodoo bizango 29er It is a bloody steep hill

[@GoodTrails]

I get this way every year for about a month and a half. It usually happens in August for me - but this year it happened May, right at the start of the season. I echo the sentiment that it's very confusing - but usually it's because I'm overwhelmed.

[@blameitonben]

I think you should hire Bobo as a part time trail therapist.

[@mateowarmerdam1029]

YES

[@xallyislas3779]

I disagree. No hate. I just don't find him as funny anymore

[@jayesh5131]

@@xallyislas3779 Are you an e-biker as well?

[@cornishcactus]

Harsh, but I preferred him swearing his way down a trail than the skits. Their funny, but not what got me watching his channel

[@xallyislas3779]

@@jayesh5131 e-biker? Nope, just regular HT mtb

[@hillsandtreesmtb6343]

Hey Paul I live in Squamish as well and have been watching your videos for awhile ! Your take on Pseudo Tsuga is dead on ! It’s absolutely amazing now and more trails need to be built in this style. I’m getting a 2021 Commencal at the end of July and have only been riding for 1 year. If you’re interested, maybe you can teach me a few things for a future video. I have my own KZbin channel as well and upload most of my days out. Let me know if you want to link up for a ride one day. Keep your spirits high and I’m glad to hear you got the stoke back !

[@Biking_with_Akiva]

I think everyone goes through some form of what your feeling. Your videos help Inspire me to get out there on the trails and it's become something I enjoy and love. Hope you find your happy place and thank you for helping me find mine. 💪🏾♥️💯

[@TheOutsiderMTB]

Looks like we've been going through similar vibes my friend. I'm starting to see the light lately though. Cheers for the honesty.

[@PaulThePunter]

💪

[@BikingwithJP]

6:25 the berms are amazing! 🤘 Such an honest video! Esp about the GoPro - I went with the Hero 8 sans horizon levelling for this exact reason!

[@joshsactiveadventures5611]

Have fun out there bud! It's hard to figure out the right balance sometimes. Find what works best for you and don't feel like you have to make your videos any certain way.

[@mtbvc9545]

Dude, I have felt exactly the same the last couple of months. Until March 2019 I was riding and traveling all over the world on a monthly basis and was excited to come home (Israel) and ride here in between. This year though, I feel like I've lost my mojo and just don't feel like touching the bikes even. My fitness have dropped significantly and in the beginning all that freaked me out. Now, I have accepted that its is probably just a period and its is okay not to love riding every time like before. Once you have accepted that, you'll find your way back enjoying your rides again. The whole point of riding is to enjoy it and feel stoked (unless you are a pro and you HAVE to ride). If its not there for a period, big deal, it will come back! Love your channel and focus on what makes you feel joy in life.

[@derekjarman1638]

Good to see you back on the bike Paul! Love the Tomorrow/Singletrack loop!

[@jamesdawson8603]

Hello Paul, why don’t you try an eMTB again, it might help with the motivation and then then fitness. It’s all i ride. Hope you feel better soon.

[@NickyNicest]

That’s what I did after being on and off my bike for so long. Emtb is a totally different level of enjoyment for me.

[@RedRageIrl]

I had the exact same feeling after completing in a EWS. I was sick of my bike and didnt ride for months. Now I'm back just riding for fun - local trails, just for a couple of hours.🤘

[@mongolacken5412]

Maybe time to buy an eMTB? I’ve struggled with MTB motivation for a long time and getting an eMTB just fired it up massively :)

[@NickyNicest]

Just being able to ride uphill without being totally gassed for the descent is amazing. I was hesitant to take the hit on my bank account but my god does it pay off..

[@reboundrides8132]

I wish I could step away from my job when I’m feeling burnt out. That wasn’t meant to be a diss btw. Consider yourself in a very blessed spot that you are able to do that.

[@Bigred10101]

Definitely know this feeling all too well mate, a few years ago when I worked in bike shops as a mechanic I began to absolutely hate everything about going mountain biking as it just always reminded me of work and that I felt like I couldn't escape it. I vividly remember when my good mate drove over 5 hours to go riding with me and I just didn't want to go, I couldn't see any fun in doing it and while it was nice to see him I hated all the time I spent riding. After that weekend I decided to quit and keep Mtb riding as a hobby and nothing more

[@SpencerBaum]

I've found something that sort of helps when I'm getting burned out from biking, is to go to a dirt jump spot or a pump track and just mess around for an hour or so. don't take riding seriously and just have a bit of casual fun. however, as others have said, does sound a bit like depression, and Ive been in that same spot before and it really sucks. YOu just feel like there's no reason to do anything. If that's the case, defiantly reach out to others and get some help.

[@BHShaman]

Predictive Video. Wishing you the continued best. It can be a chore chasing the next video, the next content, the time to set up the camera, the time to edit. Hobbies do not always make the best Jobs. It is why higher end 'Influencers' have a camera person and editor on staff. So, the 'star' can just have fun and not lose the social and hobby aspect.

[@lanestephens1899]

You should go to Bentonville AR. Miles and miles of machine built flow trails for all skill levels.

[@bananas700]

i fully understand what your meaning pual ill have weeks where I just wont go out on the bike just cus I don't feel like going for it the fun just isn't there

[@zackarylewis399]

Do what you want and if you make a video of it I’ll enjoy it so do what you love and have a good time in life

[@ricaaat]

i had this in Winter, turns out if you just go out and ride without any motivation (forcing yourself to) and then just going anywhere with no plan, you'll have so much fun and get that motivation back

[@klassinator]

Have you tried some red meat? In all seriousness, this happens to all of us. Glad to hear you enjoy golf; will check those videos out.

[@shawn-paulluchin603]

I feel it. Injured last year. Six months off the bike. Injured this year. Three months off the bike. Health and fitness have flat lined. Just started riding trainer 30 min each day and looking for confidence building trails, because confidence has been shaken. Thank you for the video!

[@cdpd3]

@Paul, glad to hear you are working through this. Don't worry about the people here, we watch these videos for your awesome personality, not just because you ride a bike. Make golf videos for all we care, as long as you stay true to yourself. One thing I did want to mention though is that you did talk about how you have been in the worst shape ever in the past 6 years. Just wanted to mention that being out of shape can lead to a bit of depression in general which can cause the lack of motivation which puts you in a vicious circle. You might want to try just getting active again and getting back in shape, it might help trigger your passion again. Also might want to think about just talking to a professional about all this, they might have some good insight. Keep your spirits up and thanks for the great content.

[@evmechanic]

It's time for an EMTB and explore more remote places instead of bike parks

[@BigOlFellaMTB]

EMTB’s take the bad out of MTB. I am tired of listening to the haters.

[@NickyNicest]

100% after being on and off with MTB for a while i bought an emtb. Sure it was expensive, but I know for a fact I will ride 100% more, longer and harder. Worth the investment for my mental health!

[@bernie6355]

I am 61 and have been riding trails for 40 years. I too am starting to lose my interest in cycling due to trail politics. There is a guy at work who has been asking me to go golfing and I am starting to feel the excitement in doing this. Who knows where it will end. Winter is coming so maybe just not cycling for awhile may energize for spring

[@BennyOcean]

What do you mean about the politics? I say this as a road bike rider. Thanks in advance.

[@dadbod4life]

You love it and you know it

[@airzillarocks]

Depression is a sneaky beast that can creep up on just about anyone mate - Everything you touched on leads to the possibility that you are in a low place and are feeling it's affects all around you - It's familiar territory and many get caught up in the chaos and murky haze of life sometimes, you are not alone - Highly recommend reaching out if you feel the need - Sharing your thoughts and story is a mega step in the right direction - Move away from the scene for a minute or two, take a deep breath and enjoy something outside the norm - Take my friend, keep the faith... \m/

[@NickyNicest]

This happens to me. I’ll be on a lock where I’ll go all the time and then a couple months later my bike won’t be touched for weeks or even months. So What did I do to combat this? I bought an ebike!

[@davemorriss2552]

Hi Swindon, yeh I spent some years there. Was obsessed with climbing when we moved to Squamish many years ago but fell out of love with it I guess like you are now with the MTB. I started kayaking and riding and gradually climbing took a back seat. In a climbing town there's so much pressure to push the grades same with the biking, so many new riders who can't wait to get that Double Black Diamond or Strava times. I guess as a Utuber you're only as good as your last video which may affect your enjoyment of getting out and just riding? Leave the go pro at home for a while? At 71 my days of riding are disappearing, life is short it creeps up on you all too quickly, enjoy it while you can. The new Pseudo is fabulous, so good I did it twice.

[@IrieVibeSender]

Are you sad cause pinkbike sold out?

[@chocoloco911]

It’s definitely common to feel that way. I have limited trails where I live and it can get boring riding the same trails over and over again. On top of that, you have the weather. It rains constantly and it takes 4-5 days for the trails to be rideable again. Honestly, it’s exhausting. Needless to say, I’ve sold my Pivot and all of my mtb gear. I’ve officially clocked out of the mtb world, once and for all. Its a great sport if the conditions are good other than that it can be very frustrating and infuriating.

[@binibiking1446]

Mind wars are the worst! You will sort it out Paul . Never give up on what you have worked so hard on❤️

[@treyreppe4348]

I'm not mountain biking atm, I don't go often enough to build strength and missed out on getting one of my dream bikes (canyon stoic 4 or giant fathom) because they are sold out now that I've saved up 🙃 that and the heat are killing my drive to get out (im riding a 2008 specialized hardrock that the fork is absolutely frozen and irreparable). I was hoping to get out in September but with the droughts here in easter WA state it'll probably be a bad fire year...

[@pauleddy5146]

Hey Paul, everyone get to this point at some time. In a number of endeavors. I have never ridden as little as I have this year out of the past 10. Both Road and MTB. Mainly work, remodeling (or necessary updating) rooms in the house that I have put off for those 10 years, and the adoption of a 5 year old German Shepherd replacing my 14 year old who has passed, taking all my time and energy. 2020, COVID and, so far 2021 have not been conducive to putting in the necessary time. I WILL get back at it. Meanwhile . . . . . . . I support your channel, Kyle and April's and Brian's BKXC. I at least get to ride with you guys (totally getting out of shape and losing all bike skills in the process). There are a lot of friends out there that can help. You have to look at the impact you have on regular working Joes. Stay strong. Just remember to do what you need to stay interested. First weekend in August is the Maah Daah Hey 100 in North Dakota. www.bikesignup.com/Race/ND/Medora/MAAHDAAHHEY100 I will be at one of the wilderness rest stops working it with my daughter and her husband. It's a bucket list thing. Can't ride it this year, but can work it. Another way to keep the stoke!

[@Grimthugg]

Didn’t you just get a new sponsor this year? That should be enough motivation man! Some of us aren’t as fortunate you know? I hope you get out of this slump and wish you the best!

[@nickv3085]

The worst type of comment right here.

[@lesliemajor2820]

Sponsors are going to love this video

[@SydDante]

Exactly my first thought lmao

[@Grimthugg]

Didn’t he just get a new sponsor too? This cat is trippin!!

[@imalex8956]

Paul sometimes you just need to take a break so than the interest can seem new when you crave it again. I hope all ends well.

[@tomsadventures1001]

I am similar. I go through hobbies about every 3 to 4 years. Thanks for all your videos I really liked them. Your narration in the videos was great. Hint, keep 1 bike just in case.

[@salmanshami]

I feel for you, man. This whole coronavirus situation has been really hard for so many people. Don't fight your feelings, or second guess them or feel guilty or the need to explain or justify them. Take a break. Do something completely different. If it is meant to be you'll go back to mountain biking. I myself have gone through phases with mountain biking. At one stage I completely gave up on it and stopped it for many years. I did the same with playing guitar. I let my hobbies and passions rest and did other stuff. Both my passions have been rejuvenated again and there is a great chance it will for you too. So bro, go and take a break and rejuvenate. Your fans will be still be here for you when you need them.

[@shemshem9998]

what i always do is a few things to avoid burnout. i ride often with my friend who has less skill and still sees improvment on a regular basis, i dont. so what i try is to push myself whenver i can, i hate doing the same thing over and over with no progression, i dont want to ride the same trail every time with no different results. what i will do it just find some part of the sport and try to improve on it. this might mean trying dificult features ive never dared to do before, session something i find awkward or dificult untill i feel proficeant at it, ill often do this with someone who is better then me, not only for advice but also so they see my skill level and know if i can do something or not so i dont talk myself out of doing it, a little peer pressure if you will, nothing brings more stoke than sending it for the first time. or i go do something else, go work on my fitness, try to finaly get up that hill, or finaly beat my time, but for this i need a few locations, because then i dont come there every ride but meybe every 1-2 weeks so i can actualy see improvement. and finaly something like just trail building, when you finaly get to send your own line its the best feeling ever.

[@B1KER]

I know the feeling bud. These things happen. Sometimes you just need a break. Also, riding with out the camera can help. So you are enjoying the ride and not thinking about your video. At the end of the day doing MTB YT turns something fun, into a job. It’s hard to balance that at times. I understand that you are saying it’s not burnout, however, it could be. Your face definitely lit up when talking about Golf. Seems like you have a new passion. Run with it. I’m sure the bikes will be there when you are ready.

[@jeffeyro]

You're in a funk, and that's totally cool! Take a little break, relax, wait for the rain, and come back strong! You got this!!

[@PaulThePunter]

Thanks Jeff!

[@planesandbikes7353]

ha we took a 'gap year' from MTB from 2004-2015, after riding and racing from 1986-2003. Rode a lot from 2015 until last year. Now I am just fed up with the trails here in Coastal BC. They're just too janky for a 50 something MTBer imho. Only suited to the kids and daredevils. Suffered a couple whallops to the head, another friend broke his neck recently and a third actually died on the trail! However we have a home in Tucson and the riding there is so so much better, with a much wider assortment from XC to double diamond DH. Love getting down there to ride for 2 weeks at a time. Golf - I did that mostly in the 1990s and a bit during the 'gap years.' Now I ride the road bikes mostly, a lot of hiking, and some RC flying and RC crawlers. BC is over rated, mostly. It's an extremely narrow focus on extreme riding here.

[@iffy_too4289]

Im at the 2 minute point and this is sounding like classical depression to me

[@seanlee7776]

I understand how you feel too cuz my bike has been acting funny lately with creaking noise all over esp when i turn my handlebars and stuff.

[@frankfattore989]

If it helps any, I really enjoy your new rider tutorials!

[@ChristianEilers]

I can unfortunately relate. Cycling is my passion and knowing everything there is to know about the things I am passionate about is kind of my thing and last year I decided to step it up a notch and get into coaching / guiding getting all the certifications... but I have had a wave of bad luck with injuries and breaking parts that has been the mega buzz kill... concussion in September, then a fantastic winter training but ever since... nerve damage in my shoulder, sliced open my shin with my shifter... parts have been breaking or not functioning the way I wanted them to... friends got injured or broke their bikes. And honestly, I have just been feeling exhausted from life. This video was a good reminder that I am not the only one struggling and that - as you said - not being able to do things the way you want them to or being injured or having too many mechanicals is eating away at the passion for many of us. I really hate golf but I hope you can strike the balance between loving the bikes and loving something else... Thanks for sharing.

[@chriswitek9455]

my 2 cents. when shit goes wrong, yell fuck and move on with it. it doesnt magically get better or fixed so dont stress about it. ya do what you can and keep going forward

[@MagooOnABike]

It's always hard to enjoy riding super dry tracks...

[@kenth7211]

great video paul!

[@harddriveYT]

Sweet! One less MTB KZbinr. More room for my friend and me.

[@madhatter9631]

I hope travel restrictions lighten so that you can regain the travel element of your passion. Unfortunately the ripple effects of covid are being seen in many pastimes. Good luck and Be encouraged!

[@MrGman400]

HERE IS SOME TOUGH LOVE. Its been a while. We have missed your complaining while Living in the "Meca" of mountain biking. Take a break every one needs a vacation from work even if your work is mtb. Get an E bike so it will not be so hard on the climbs. It is still your job and you have to put out content but you dont have to suffer. Get back into shape slowly.

[@Wannaridebikes]

I’m glad you did this video …could help a lot of people stuck. ..thanks. ..

[@Nick_CF]

If you can only have fun at Whistler and not in your driveway on a bike then it says something about you as a rider. Give me a curb and I'm a little kid again...be appreciative that you can even ride at all.

[@myagenthouston]

Novelty is a great way to increase seratonin. try adding trail running and gym workouts to your schedule and learn a new sport. when you have less time to ride your bike, you will enjoy more the opportunity you have to ride your bike.

[@onerider808]

Watched this after you quit. I wonder if you quit with the filming bit, dropped the celebs, and just rode with regular people on trails YOU find enjoyable, if you’d still enjoy it....

[@BOTG_Adventures]

As a small channel myself I have given it my all tried everything and feel burnt out from trying and lack of success its heartbreaking. I can't imagine how much pressure large channels like you feel. Keep your chin up and your tires muddy Paul.

[@liammulligan1279]

I learnt a lot about biking from you paul . I don't know if that's going to perk you up .😕 It's so hot here I can't perk myself up .

[@andrewmitchel4133]

Sounds like you may have an issue with your SD card not being able to write at fast enough speeds for your bit rate selection.

[@matthewfrattaroli5564]

I’ve had to save this video because Paul I went through the exact exact same struggle where golf became my first option to go and do and cycling was second and I’m over that stage now and realised that’s cycling is a lot better and you will probably get to a stage where you actually get sick of golf 😂 and then you’ll get on your bike and you won’t be able to get off it.I hope this will give you some motivation but if it doesn’t I atleast tried🤞🏼 keep up the great vids🔥

[@ΒΑΓΓΕΛΗΣΓΑΛΑΝΟΣ-φ5ψ]

ohhhh these days.....everyone is a pro rider filming,uploading ,get paid. I dont have a camera ,idon take photos, i dont post on intagram when i go for a ride. i just enjoy beeing at the mountain. when suddenly everything becomes a job routine or a borrowed lifestyle then you dont actually want to do it anymore. say no to cameras or insta or strava ...just enjoy riding

[@alexally2382]

Your not the only one. Im having that thought lately

[@TheAquanomad]

So you're now Paul the Putter?

[@insanebmxthomas]

lmfao

[@sam2288ful]

Stop… right here stop recording for a week.. go out on the bike. An go out with out strava.. with out technology… this is what the issue is.. you’ve got so entranced with having no fun.. get entranced with just having fun on your bike.

[@williammckeown3154]

Maybe a little over saturated with the mtb-I was thinking golf then popped up in the video! Pseudo tsuga is the perfect medicine to bring back the stoke- rode it 3 weeks ago and was giggling the whole way down

[@jeffs4483]

I think the sport attracts a lot of bad people, generally speaking. Not exactly sure why, but there is a reason why many people hate bikers.