Why a Strong Foundation is Crucial for Safe Jumping
Despite the COVID-19 Pandemic, 2020 was our busiest year yet! In particular, we saw a massive increase in the demand for private lessons- not surprising, given the new safety challenges associated with group events and clinics.
"Jumping & Getting Air" was the number one requested skill development goal for our private lessons - but it was the 18th most taught skill! More often than not, riders lacked the proper foundation and fundamentals on the bike to ensure safe airtime. Instead of getting airtime immediately, we returned to the drawing board to correct bad habits and rebuild a stronger foundation on the bike.
Private lessons or jumping clinics and courses are a great way to work with an expert who can ensure you have the proper baseline and fundamental skills on the bike to execute new, more challenging skills confidently. If 'jumping and getting air' is one of your goals, we can help you achieve that goal! Be sure to check our upcoming Intro to Jumps Clinic.
Good jumping form comes primarily from a strong foundation on the bike, including proper body positioning, pressure control, bike body separation, timing and coordination, and strong mental focus. Top that off with an understanding of a jump's anatomy: knowing how the different speeds, shapes, and sizes of the jump can impact the ride. Experience on the bike is a significant advantage here.
Jump Anatomy:
POC *Point of Commitment* - Your point of no return.
A APPROACH - smooth section of trail before the jump.
B TRANSITION - the curve at the bottom of the ramp.
C RAMP/TAKEOFF - the part of the jump from the transition to the lip.
D LIP - the end of the ramp.
E TABLE - the flat top to the jump.
F KNUCKLE - the top/start of the landing.
G LANDING - where riders should aim to land both wheels.
Jumping Technique:
Establish a POINT OF COMMITMENT.
Approach in a tall and relaxed neutral position, ready to go.
LOAD into the bike through the transition (bottom) of the ramp. Keep the pressure even on both wheels and the movements smooth.
EXPLODE by standing up, using the entire length of the takeoff.
When the rear wheel is about a foot before the lip, begin "relaxing," allowing your legs, in particular, to bend and the bike to come up into you.
Relax in the air by staying "small" and centred.
ROW the handlebars forward and down to adjust the bike to mirror the landing angle and get ready to absorb the landing.
We would love to work with you to make sure you have the proper understanding of what is involved with jumping, why we are doing it, and how to do it safely! Join one of our upcoming Intro to Jumps Clinics or book a Private lesson to get the wheels in motion on that airtime!
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