Chris O'Callaghan - qualified mountain bike leader (mbl). Chris has been mountain biking since 1999 with qualifications in all outdoor education since 1992.
Chris and Liam Sheehy run Trailriders Bike Rental in Ballyhoura Forest (trailriders.ie) with a fleet of 40 bikes in Irelands largest trail network (offering bike hire, kids training camps and adult lessons from trailriding to racing).

In the article below for Madforsport.com Chris goes through the most frequently asked questions about getting into Mountain Biking 

1. What is the best way to start in Mountain Biking?

The best way to get started really is a local club, most mountain biking clubs have a full selection of disciplines adventure racing/ x country to downhill (even downhill in Europe).
Bikes can be hired at one of the mountain biking trails such as Ballyhoura MTB or any of those listed on Madforsport.com or on the Coillte website. Beginner lessons are provided at the trails by course providers listed on madforsport.com.

2. Do you need to have a high fitness level to get into Mountain Biking?

The beginner should pick a trail network that allows a mix of distances and not too technical as this can add an extra dimension that you could do without at this stage of your learning curve.

3. Is there a structured Mountain Biking training programme/ courses?

Mountain Biking course providers such as trailriders.ie, biking.ie and Kilfinane OEC run a mountain biking skills pathway from beginner through to the Trail Cycle Leader Award which is certified by Scottish Cycling and recognized by Cycling Ireland.
Details on the courses that each course provider runs are on madforsport.com or check out their websites.

4. Are there Mountain Biking competitions in Ireland for Adults/ Juniors and how do you get involved?

The mountain biking competitions in Ireland can be accessed by contacting your local biking club, cyclingireland.com or irishdh.com
Most of the races have sports categories for elite and juniors.

5. What kind of Mountain Biking Equipment should the beginner go for?

I would only buy equipment when you are sure that this that this is the sport for you. Mountain bikes are expensive and renting at the trails and the option of second hand equipment should also be considered.
Hardtails are always the best option to learn the basics of mountain biking as it’s a cheaper option but also less weight to be carrying around (remember to pick the right tyre choice as too big a tyre means more rotational weight)

6. Where are the best Mountain Biking locations in Ireland?

The Ballyhoura trail network is arguably the best network of trails in Ireland due to ease of trails to the experienced racers that clock up to 80km. All the woods were designed as to encourage the absolute beginner. Coillte have a number of other trails around the country which can be found on the Coillte and Madforsport.com websites