The Progression Guide – May | Highland Mountain Bike Park

A Monthly Online Skill Builder Series

MAY EDITION 2025

May is here, and it’s time to get riding. With the park open and the trails running, there’s no better time to refine the core skills that set you up for success all season long. This month, we’re spotlighting body positioning—the key to staying balanced, controlled, and confident on every feature and every descent.

We’re kicking off with a ‘From the Coaches’ video that breaks down the fundamentals of good body positioning, helping you stay dynamic and in control no matter what the trail throws at you. Then, we’re sharing a Rider Progression story on Ava O’Brien, a familiar face from our training program who continues to level up her riding through thoughtful practice and a focus on the fundamentals.

Whether you’re dropping into your first laps of the season or already chasing new lines, now’s the time to tune into your technique.

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MY NAME IS AVA O’BRIEN

I’ve been riding for about four years. Prior to my first time at Highland, I hadn’t really done much mountain biking. I had maybe a day or two at Franklin Falls and some trails local to me.

MY HIGHLAND EXPERIENCE

My first experience at Highland was the Find Your Ride Essentials. A friend had invited me to come ride with her and knowing how intense riding downhill is, she suggested I do the Find Your Ride for the gear rentals and lesson. I didn’t have any idea what to do so I happily agreed to try it. I loved it so much and got so much out of it I ended up doing all three Find Your Rides.

The first thing I remember thinking when I got to Highland was “What am I getting myself into.” I distinctly remember seeing riders in chesties and neck braces (foreign objects to me at the time) then turning to my dad and telling him it looked like everyone here was about to go pro.

I probably would’ve never gone back to the bike park if I hadn’t taken a lesson. It’s just intimidating at first. Even experienced riders sometimes don’t think to show you things such as putting your bike on the lift. The Find Your Ride was such a thorough teaching of everything I was confused about that I felt totally confident to ride on my own.

The biggest learning point I got from the lesson was probably just body positioning. From a coaching standpoint, I see people all the time who get nervous and their body position gets tight and small. To them, this feels safer or more in control, but in reality it is the complete opposite. Getting taught to keep knees and elbows wide and strong made me feel and ride infinitely better.

BEYOND THE FIND YOUR RIDE PROGRAM

My riding has been a consistent progression since day one. My first season was spent mostly trying to catch up with people. My season goals were stepping stone and clearing hellion, and I ended up surpassing that with hitting tombstone halfway through the season. It’s just been getting better since then!

From a coaching perspective, I’ve seen and ridden with riders who started out with lessons and ones who didn’t. People who start out with good body position and cornering have a much better understanding of the way the bike should move underneath you. They go on to be able to progress to different skills better and more naturally, even if they haven’t been directly taught them yet.

To anyone considering a Find Your Ride, I would recommend just doing it. If you haven’t ridden downhill before, it’s everything you could want to know. Even if you know how to ride, everyone only benefits from repetition and more understanding of the basics, they can never hurt.

My riding goals are to clear all of slopestyle this year and maybe get upside down (at least into foam!).

THE RIDE CONTINUES

Looking back, it’s wild to think how far I’ve come—from being intimidated just stepping into the park, to now helping new riders find their footing. Progress doesn’t happen all at once, but with the right support and mindset, it absolutely happens. I’m excited to keep pushing my limits and helping others do the same. This journey has taught me that with patience, good coaching, and a willingness to try, you can go farther than you ever imagined. I’m proud of the rider I’ve become, and I’m even more excited about the rider—and coach—I’m still becoming.

This Month we are highlighting Women’s Gravity Weekend is Highland’s signature women-focused program designed to help you grow your confidence, dial in your technique, and push your limits in a supportive, empowering environment. Led by professional female coaches, this two-day clinic blends expert instruction with tons of ride time, giving you the tools to conquer everything from flow trails to technical terrain. Whether you’re new to downhill or a seasoned shredder looking to refine your skills, you’ll leave with new techniques, new friends, and a serious boost in confidence.

What’s included:

Professional individualized coaching, Small group instruction tailored to your level, Lift access and dedicated practice zones, A welcoming, inclusive community of women riders, Plenty of time on trail to apply what you’ve learned

No matter your experience level, Women’s Gravity Weekend is all about progression, support, and stoke. Come ride, learn, and laugh with a crew of women who love bikes as much as you do.

Spots are limited—grab yours early and get ready for a weekend that will elevate your riding and your mindset.

One-Day Gravity Essentials

One day Clinics Saturday or Sunday

BOOK NOW

Two-Day Women’s Ayr Academy

Two Day camp Saturday and Sunday

BOOK NOW