Session & Progression: Take Your Mountain Biking to the Next Level

Since 2020, mountain biking has grown in popularity nationwide. You have a bike and have been riding, but how do you progress from being a green/blue trail cruiser to a black trail crusher? OGExpert Kenzie is here to share her tips and tricks. She is a BICP (Bike Instructor Certification Program) Level 2 instructor with a passion for getting a diversity of riders out on mountain bikes.

1. Go Back to the Basics

Pay attention to the basics. The bike and the basics are quite literally the foundation of your riding. Remember to always scan the terrain ahead, have a finger on the brakes, have level, evenly-weighted pedals, and balance on the balls of your feet.

2. Learn From a Pro

Take a lesson. There is nothing quite like learning from a pro. Whether you are just getting started and want to learn how to corner better, or you have progressed and want to learn how to stay in control on steeps or jumps, a lesson is the best place to start. There are options out there from one-on-one instruction to group classes to help fine-tune your riding. Check out what’s offered in your area.

3. Fitness Is Your Friend

Focus on fitness. This may sound too simple, but making sure you are in good cardiovascular shape and lifting weights will only make you a better rider: Having trouble lifting your wheels over roots? Work on some “explosive” movements in the gym. Climbing up steeps zapping all of your energy? Try interval training.

4. Get Connected

Find a good riding community. The more you ride with people who challenge you, the better you’ll become at riding. Going on group rides with folks who ride slightly better than you, and “sessioning” features that are a bit outside of your comfort zone will make you better in the long run. A crucial part of this is finding a riding community that makes you feel safe. If someone makes you feel lesser-than, or pressures you into riding something you don’t want to, then they are not the right group to ride with.

5. Tap Into Your Resources

Check out your local trails' organizations. They’ll have fantastic information on where to ride near you, and have a solid trail difficulty rating system. Better yet, download our favorite trails app: Trailforks —a platform that provides maps, reviews, trail statuses, and photos from other riders.

6. Enjoy Yourself

Have fun and enjoy yourself! Mountain biking doesn’t always have to be serious. Ride that trail that feels silly, wear something that makes your smile, and just get out there.