The Progression Paradox: Relax to Ride Better - The MTB Mindset Shift You Need [RNL S2, Ep 8]

Can the J-hop jump technique work on every MTB jump… or is that a fast track to disaster?  Dan and Sage dive deep into this potent skill—plus a surprising mountain bike balance tip that might change how you ride: widen your knees!

Sage battles brutal humidity and wet trails (with a fresh new mustache!) while Dan faces scary desert gap jumps and questions whether his mindset — or technique — is holding him back. They break down how body position affects bike control, balance, and flow, with a nod to MTB legend Greg Minnaar for inspiration.

The guys get real about fear, overthinking, and the power of TRUST on the bike.  Plus, how music can help you quiet the mind, find flow, and let go of the illusion of control.

Question for YOU: Have you ever psyched yourself out on the bike? What helps you get into flow? Drop it in the comments!  Subscribe for more MTB laughs, tips, and mindset shifts every week!

MTB Gratitude of the Week:

Dan: His Body - Dan’s sending big gratitude to... his body!  Waking up healthy, strong, and ready to roll is something we all take for granted. Next time you look in the mirror, remind yourself: “I’m strong, I’m capable... and yeah, pretty dang good-looking too.”  You’ve got this.

Sage: Ethan - Sage is grateful to his riding buddy Ethan not just for riding together but also for encouraging Sage to join a running group.  Running, and especially trail running, is a great way to crosstrain for Mtbing and social running is something Sage is excited to try.    

MTB Tip of the Week:

Dirt jump in running shoes! Seriously — old running sneakers grip flat pedals surprisingly well thanks to that squishy EVA foam. Bonus: they absorb impact like a champ and feel way comfier than stiff MTB shoes. Perfect for dirt jump days (but maybe not your enduro ride).  

Featured Riders:

Arturo - https://www.instagram.com/art_tours_mtb/ 
Greg Minaar - https://www.instagram.com/gregminnaar 
Skills with Phil - https://www.instagram.com/philkmetz
Zane / Sploosh MTB - https://www.instagram.com/sploosh_mtb
Nik - https://www.instagram.com/lowkey.mtb
Dan - https://www.instagram.com/JuggernautMTB
Ethan - https://www.instagram.com/hensmtb/

Additional Links:

Phoenixville Bike Park - https://www.instagram.com/phoenixvillebikepark
Hawes Trail Alliance - https://www.instagram.com/hawestrailalliance 

The video version of this episode is also available on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/Ez6JKKsu8wg

The Ride and Laugh MTB podcast is hosted by Dan @the_ride_abides and Sage @TrailSage.  Join us as we discuss all things mountain biking!  Riding technique, MTB gear, bikes, nutrition, fitness, mindset and more! Feel the gratitude. Flow on the trails, Flow in life!  Please enjoy the content then like and subscribe.  Join the Ride & Laugh community in the comments and/or rideandlaugh1@gmail.com.

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