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, "Confidence" came in as runner up to "Jumping & Getting Air." While we were surprised it didn't take the top spot, we weren't shocked; it wasn't far behind. There is way more to mountain biking than 'it's just like riding a bike.' I think most people would agree that being confident on your mountain bike means that you just 'go for it' with no second thoughts or self-doubt.
Unfortunately, there is no quick fix or magic solution other than practice practice practice. The more miles you get under your tires, the better. There are, however, ways to help ensure you are on the right track to see results sooner than later. 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 being more 'confident' on your bike is one of your goals for 2021, we can help you achieve that goal!
Here are some of our minii confidence-boosting tips;
Practice! Practice! Practice! The more times you repeat something, the more comfortable you will become with performing it. Just remember to progress appropriately. Start with simple drills and exercises to warm up before heading to the trail.
Don't ride features and obstacles blindly. Take the time to get to know an obstacle, your line choice through it before riding it and your bailout options.
Trail Scanning...the nose knows! Get in the habit of looking where you want to go, not at what you don't want to hit. Try to read the trail as much in advance as possible so you can better plan and execute and not be taken by surprise.
Relax, and don't forget to breathe. Give yourself positive self-talk. Or try singing a funky song in your head to help take the edge off.
Build a strong foundation. Do you want to be the Little Piggy with the straw house, stick house, or brick house when the big bad trail comes along? Take a lesson (we suggest multiple) or join a clinic to build a strong foundation on the bike. Professional instructors will know how to help you progress appropriately. We also like to be your cheerleader!
We would love to work with you to make sure you have the proper foundation to be confident in your riding.
Book a Private Lesson this spring to get stacking those bricks added to your house of confidence! Your first step is completing our Registration Form, so we are best equipped to design the classes just for you!
Find out more on our Private Lessons and how to book here.
Stay tuned for New Year, New Skills Part 3 next week!
