Winter Training Plan
Updated: Nov 16, 2022
Part 1: Jumping
Last year, "Jumping & Getting Air" was the number one requested skill development goal for many of our participants - but it was the 18th most taught skill! Often, riders needed more focus and work on their foundation and fundamentals to ensure safe airtime. Instead of getting airtime immediately, we had to go back to the drawing board to correct bad habits and rebuild a stronger foundation on the bike.
Our Level Up Workshop Series is a great way to work with an expert coach who can make sure you have the proper 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 2023, we can help you achieve that goal!
So much content and media are available to inspire airtime and playing on your bike. But, there needs to be more clarification 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 - section of trail before the jump
B TRANSITION - the curve at the bottom of the ramp
C RAMP/TAKE-OFF - the part of the jump from the transition to the lip
D LIP - the end of the ramp/take-off
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:
Approach:
+ Use your POC-- stay committed! Most mishaps occur when a rider changes their mind too late.
+ Approach in a neutral position, relaxed, ready to go.
Take-Off:
+ Press strongly into the bike using your legs in the ramp's transition (bottom). Keep the pressure even on both wheels and the movements smooth.
+ Explode up from the take-off with the body and bike when the front wheel is about a foot before the lip. Let the back wheel ride off the end of the take-off.
Air-Time:
+ Begin "relaxing," allowing your arms and legs to bend and bring the bike up level to you.
+ Relax in the air by staying "small" and centred.
Landing:
+ Gently row the handlebars forward and down to mirror the bike to the landing.
+ Get ready to absorb the landing.
We would love to work with you to ensure you understand what is involved with jumping, why we are doing it, and how to do it safely!
Our Level Up Workshop Series runs three cohorts over the winter and is the perfect course to take your jumping and other bike skills to the next level!