You begin with the build-up of speed – which the name ‘pump track’ itself already connotes – you have to pump the terrain in order to gain speed. In addition, manualling and jumping improve important and useful skills that can be transferred well to deep-tread everyday life. To “read” the terrain and deliberately push to increase speed pays off, since this way is usually faster than dull pedaling on hazards. On top of that, it saves you a lot of energy and provides a certain flow to your sequence of movements. The im-
provement of your ability to react, due to the fast series of rollers and berms on a pump track, features another advantage that we can transfer to trail riding. This is where the entire locomotor system is being trained, especially regarding coordination. Legs and arms, as well as upper body and mind, need to be in perfect synchronicity. Sufficient practice and exercise eventually turn everything from being hard work, to automaticity and ease. You loosen up from workout to workout and are able to increase your speed. >>