HOW TO... DO IT LIKE THE PROS!

The best riders are so good because they've got the basics absolutely nailed, says pro coach Alan Milway

When you watch the coverage of a Downhill World Cup or Enduro World Series race, it's often hard to relate to the professional riders, as they make the technical, steep and perilous tracks look trivial. As they jump gaps or rail turns at speeds you wouldn't even consider, it's easy to think that what they do is a world away from your own riding. However, there are key things that these riders do very well - and these fundamentals translate to everyone. You may not progress to the same level, but you can learn a lot from the pros and put a lot of what they do into practice.

1. LOOK AHEAD 

It sounds so obvious, but if you watch an amateur rider, you'll often see them looking at the ground, a root or rock they want to miss, or at the apex of the turn.

THE PRO APPROACH

Look well ahead -through corners, or far down the trail. Don't focus on the small features of the trail, but the key set-up points.

2. HEELS DOWN