YOUTH RACE DEVELOPMENT

Program Overview

Target Age Group: 11–14 years.
Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced.
Coach Ratio: 1 Adult Head Coach and 1 Junior Coach per 6 riders.

Trail Features

• Gradual grades for both uphill and downhill sections.
• Small obstacles such as roots, rocks, and manageable hills and descents.
• Tabletop jumps 3H x 5W.
• Ample room for passing in some areas.
• Convenient viewing spots for coaches to observe and provide feedback.
• Ensure that riders aren’t required to hike their bikes for more than 5 minutes at a time.

Pre-Session Setup

• During the first session, allow time to sign in riders while keeping them engaged with warm-up games like:
  • Foot Down: Balance and bike control game.
  • Slow Race: Improves slow-speed stability.

WEEKLY SESSION GOALS AND SKILLS

Week 1: Foundations and Safety

Time commitment: 4 – 2 hour sessions

• Focus: Building confidence and reinforcing fundamental skills.
• Key Skills:
  • Bike safety check and basic maintenance. Riders will learn to perform a bike check and do basic trailside repairs.
  • Riders will learn and be challenged on the fundamentals.
  • Bike-body positions for balance and control.
  • Proper brake control, especially around corners.
  • Techniques for safe dismounts.

Week 2: Maneuvering Obstacles

Time commitment: 3 – 3 hour sessions

• Focus: Developing technical skills for trail challenges.
• Key Skills:
  • Cornering techniques and navigating rock dodges.
  • Front-wheel lifts and manuals.
  • Rear-wheel lifts and bunny hops.

Week 3: Advanced Terrain Skills

Time commitment: 5 – 2 hour sessions

• Focus: Riding confidently through demanding sections of trail.
• Key Skills:
  • Managing steep descents and small drops.
  • Navigating high-speed corners.
  • Balance and positioning for riding skinnies. Emergency dismounts from elevated features.

Week 4: Flow and Precision

Time commitment: 5 – 3 hour sessions

• Focus: Enhancing rhythm and adaptability for smooth trail riding.
• Key Skills:
  • Pumping for momentum and energy efficiency.
  • Adjusting body position to handle obstacles both uphill and downhill.
  • Jumps with control.

Additional Notes

• Riders should come equipped with properly maintained bike, helmets, and protective gear.
• Consider a short debrief at the end of each session to review progress and areas for improvement.
• Use positive reinforcement to motivate and engage riders, especially when learning advanced skills.