SAFE PROGRESSION

Now you've built a skills base, it's time to make it count when the trails get rowdy

- Andy Barlow

THE COACH

ANDY BARLOW

Before joining Dirt School Andy liked to win things - races like the Scottish XC Champs and the Scottish Downhill Champs. Since 2009, though, he's coached some of the world's best riders with Dirt School and helped bring on the BASE MTB course at Borders College in the Tweed Valley. But what Andy really likes to do is communicate those pro techniques to everyday riders.

One of the best things about mountain biking is that there's a constant progression. There is no end goal, no ultimate rider, and no completion point. Whether it's clearing your head after a long week at work, or watching your fitness improve as you get closer to that big event you have planned, you are always making progress.

As you spend more time on your bike and your confidence grows, you might find yourself drifting onto more challenging trails. This doesn't always go according to plan, and it's quite common for riders to feel out of control the first time they try a trail that's the next grade up. This month we're going to look at how to progress your technique on more demanding trails by being aware of the mistakes that you will most likely make, and being conscious of what to do to correct them.

BODY POSITION

The shape you make when you're riding your bike is the biggest contributor to your stability, and the first thing that will become compromised when you feel challenged. Your body position can make or break a positive experience and it's definitely one that should be on your mind when going to a new location. Remember that as soon as your comfort zone is being breached, you will want to move away from danger, protect yourself and hold on tighter. Any, or all of these, will result in an experience that feels rigid, off-balance and harder on your body, reducing control.