IMPROVE YOUR RIDING
MAINTAIN GOOD POSTURE There’s no point in looking at how to tackle obstacles until you have a solid posture on the bike. Having a stable start/finish point to work from, where you’re standing on the pedals, is super-important. Why is a good stance on the bike so critical? First of all, it means you don’t waste energy on difficult, pointless movements. Secondly, it gives room between you and the bike, so the bike can move to you when going over rollers or rough sections. It also positions your weight centrally, which means the bike can pivot more freely under you. Finally, it brings consistency to your riding, because you’ll be moving from a similar point when approaching different obstacles. Bikes are light, but we are heavy. If you have the correct posture, the bike can work effectively over the terrain. If you don’t, then riding can be extremely hard work! Here are the four things to focus on...
HIPS Bend at the hips so that your chest comes forward, allowing you to gain control of the front of the bike. The amount you should bend depends on your riding style, but if you often lose control/ traction of the front wheel, try bending more.
ELBOWS A general rule is that if your elbows are bent, you have control of the front wheel. When riding on flatter terrain, keep your elbows bent and up/forwards.
L EG S Keep your legs straight and in line with the pull of gravity, but stay supple. This will give you a better feel for the terrain and allow space for the bike to move when riding over obstacles.
FEET Put your weight through your heels. This is a common one that many riders know but not many actually do. It’ll help you feel the terrain and encourage you to have even weight distribution through both feet.
MOUNTAIN BIKING SKILLS 15
