Don’t Fall for the Bike Mag Hype

Warning – what follows is a rant that may appear to be a bit random in places. It may also offend a few people but if I’m not pissing somebody off every day then I am probably not trying hard enough. I have to admit it – I’m getting more than a little frustrated at [...]

Combo Lift Video Demo

Here is a video demo I shot of some different ways to use combination drills in your routine… -James Wilson-

Are you “overskilled”?

I would have to say that 90% of the MTB riders and racers that I have met would be defined as “over skilled”. It sounds absurd since most feel that some aspect of their riding needs work, be it skill related such as gate starts or fitness related such as better power endurance (I define [...]

21st Century Cardio Training – part 1

In this podcast I cover my definitive look developing mountain bike specific cardio. Cardio Training Part 1 Right click on the link above and select “Save as…” in order to download the MP3 file to your computer. -James Wilson-

Going beyond a normal workout…

Are you “false fit”?

I wrote this for my regular fitness blog at www.coachjames.com but it is just as appropriate my fellow mountain bikers. We are extremely guilty of the “false fit” condition. Read to learn more… Most exercise professionals would agree that there are many components to fitness. A well rounded approach to fitness that addresses all of [...]

Aerobic Base Training is Dead – The Scientific Proof

Ever since I came out about a year ago and blasted some huge holes in the idea of aerobic base training for DH and 4X riders I’ve had a lot of people doubt my sanity. Aerobic base training has been a staple of training programs for decades and many an off season program for mountain [...]

Back hurts after XC rides…

My buddy Lee McCormack (www.leelikesbikes.com) recently sent me this question… James!OK dude. I’ve been doing longer rides lately, and it’s starting to feel good. My climbing legs are coming back, and I’m comfortable for 2+ hour rides. The weak link is actually appearing on the DH. I’m training and riding the way I always do, [...]

The MTB Performance Wheel

Do you want to know how to tell what you need to get better as a rider? If not you may be wasting your training time. Here is my introduction of the MTB Performance Wheel and how you can use it to better focus your training… MTB Strength Coach Podcast – The MTB Performance Wheel [...]

How long is your training program?

Q: How long is the training system for someone who want to take it serious and start racing pro in Downhill?  I race expert now and know I am fast enough for pro but need to be in peak physical condition.  I recently tore my acl at a race but I am guessing that by [...]