Part 1: 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.
Last year, "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 right away, we had to go back to the drawing board to correct bad habits and re-build a stronger foundation on the bike.
Private lessons are a great way to work one-on-one with an expert who can make sure you have the proper baseline know-how on the bike to execute new and more challenging skills with confidence. If 'jumping and getting air' is one of your goals for 2021, we can help you achieve that goal!
There is so much content and media available to inspire airtime and playing on your bike. But, there is also a lot of misconception about the skills, techniques, and experience involved with your tires leaving the ground.
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: here, the bike is loaded with pressure, with the 'press.'
C RAMP - the part of the jump from the transition and to the lip
D LIP - the end of the ramp: start to 'absorb' before the lip!
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
Intro to Jumping Techniques:
1.POINT OF COMMITMENT. Approach in a neutral position, relaxed, ready to go.
2. PRESS into the bike, using the legs, in the transition (bottom) of the ramp. Keep the pressure even on both wheels and the movements smooth.
3. ABSORB the lip. When the front wheel is about a foot before the lip, begin "relaxing," allowing your arms and legs to bend and the bike to come up into you.
4. Relax in the air by staying "small" and centred.
5. Adjust the bike to mirror the bike to the landing 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!
Book a private lesson this spring to get the wheels in motion on that airtime! Your first step is completing our Registration Form, so we are best equipped to design the classes just for you!
Stay tuned for New Year, New Skills Part 2 next week!