Dizziness at the bike park - reasons why

Does this sound familiar?

You’re at the bike park, fully focused, riding down a trail – and suddenly you feel dizzy. A brief moment that can totally knock you out. Don’t worry: you’re not alone. Dizziness while biking is more common than you might think. And most of the time, it’s easy to explain – and even easier to prevent.

In this article, you’ll learn what can cause dizziness while biking, how to manage it – and what to do in an emergency.

The 5 most common reasons for dizziness at the bike park – and what to do about them

1. Not enough fluids: Dehydration & electrolyte imbalance

When you sweat, you lose more than just water – important minerals like sodium too. Without enough fluids, dizziness can kick in fast.

What helps:

• Start drinking regularly before you even get on the bike
• Sip water or an electrolyte drink during your ride
• Drinks with glucose and sodium help absorption
• Eat a balanced, mineral-rich diet – even off the bike

2. Low blood sugar – hypoglycaemia while riding

If your body runs out of energy, it’ll let you know. Dizziness, weakness, shakiness – classic signs of low blood sugar.

How to stay fueled:

• Eat a carbohydrate-rich meal before your ride
• Take snacks with you: energy bars, bananas, gels, gummies
• Eat small portions regularly – don’t down it all at once

3. Improper breathing & overexertion

Breathing too shallow or pushing too hard – your body won’t like that. Especially during intense sessions or unfamiliar strain, your circulation might briefly shut down.

What you can do:

• Focus on deep, steady breathing
• Don’t overdo it – progression is fine, overload is not
• Take breaks if it starts feeling like too much

4. Muscle tension & cervical spine issues

• Staring straight ahead, bad posture, poorly fitted helmet – it all puts strain on your neck and shoulders. The result? Dizziness caused by
• muscle tension or cervical spine irritation.

Prevention is better than dizziness:

• Adjust your bike ergonomically (seat position, handlebar height, etc.)
• Regularly stretch and strengthen neck and shoulders
• Fit your helmet properly – too tight is counterproductive
• Persistent problems? See a physio or get a bike ergonomics check

5. Motion sickness – movement & balance

Fast drops, twisting turns, looking down: when your inner ear’s balance system gets overwhelmed, dizziness can strike – just like seasickness.

Tips:

• Look ahead: keep your eyes on the horizon
• Fresh ginger – works for many
• Medication is possible, but beware: some cause drowsiness
• Train balance and vestibular system (e.g. wobble board) beforehand

Other possible causes:

• Low blood pressure: especially when standing up quickly or after breaks
• Heatstroke: wear a cap and seek shade, especially in hot weather
• Fear and panic: psychological stress can also cause dizziness
• Medical issues: frequent or severe symptoms? Get c