The Progression Guide – July

A Monthly Online Skill Builder Series

JULY EDITION 2025 – Pumping & Flow

Pumping is the heartbeat of smooth, efficient riding—it’s how riders create speed, control, and flow without a single pedal stroke. Far from just coasting, pumping transforms the trail’s natural features—rollers, backsides, and transitions—into opportunities for free momentum and stability.

In this edition, we’re diving into the art of pumping: how to read the terrain, use your body to generate speed, and find that rhythm that makes a trail feel effortless. From timing your weight shifts to connecting movements into a seamless flow, these techniques will help you ride with more confidence, efficiency, and style.

Whether you’re rolling through a rhythm section or flowing down a technical trail, mastering pumping is the key to making every ride smoother and faster.

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Building Skills and Memories

My name is Gunnar Johansen. I’ve been riding for about five years. I have been riding at Highland for four years. Prior to riding at Highland, I had biked on local biking trails.

My first experience at Highland was the Kids Camp on Saturdays. I was six years old. A family friend recommended Highland because he knew how much I loved riding bikes. That first day, I wore a full-face helmet for the very first time, and spent a long but super fun three hours riding. After that first session, I knew I wanted to come back.

I did the Kids Camp for three years. As soon as I turned eight, I joined my first Summer Ride session. This summer marks my third year doing Summer Ride, and I’m really excited to move up to Ayr Academy next year.

Some key lessons I’ve learned are how to take berms, lay off the brakes, and improve my body positioning. As I got better at taking berms, my speed increased, and I didn’t have to use my brakes as much. All the coaches I’ve had have been really supportive. They helped me break through mental blocks on harder trails and features. Every time I hit something new, the coaches would celebrate with me—and that always gave me a big boost of confidence.

Breakthrough Moment

My breakthrough moment was hitting Whale’s Tale on Hellion. I had watched friends ride the drop while I always took the ride-around. I wanted to try it, but something kept holding me back. Then, this summer, I was riding with some friends when we met a group of riders who asked if we wanted to ride down with them. When we got to Whale’s Tale, they towed us in. I went for it—and landed it! I was so excited and proud of myself. I remember asking myself afterward, “Why was I so afraid of that feature?” Now, it’s one of my favorite parts of Hellion.

Growth Beyond the Programs

I think I’ve become a more confident rider and more willing to take risks on the trail. I feel a lot more comfortable trying out new features, even ones that used to seem intimidating.

I was especially excited for Summer Ride this year because I wanted to keep building on that confidence and focus more on tech skills throughout the week. Every session gives me a chance to push myself, and I’m always looking forward to what I can learn next.

Looking Ahead

I want to keep working on riding tech trails and getting more comfortable in the air—especially with the steeper lips on jumps. A few weeks ago, I did my first Friday Night Series race, and now I’m focused on improving my time for the last race of the season in August. Another big goal of mine is to hit the spine on Jack Rabbit before the summer ends.

When people ask me what I think about Highland programs, I always say the camps are my favorite part of Highland. You learn so many skills, and just as important—you build a lot of confidence. That’s what keeps me coming back.

Looking to get your young rider hooked on mountain biking?

Highland’s Saturday Kids Camp is the perfect way to spark progression in a fun and supportive environment. Designed for ages 6–14, this one-day camp blends professional coaching, hands-on skill building, and lift-accessed trail time to create the ultimate Saturday adventure. Riders are grouped by ability and guided through everything from bike setup and body positioning to cornering, pumping, and small jumps. With access to pump tracks, skills zones, and beginner-friendly trails like Whippoorwill and Freedom, kids get real-world practice to build confidence and technique.

Each session runs from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM, with rentals available for bikes and gear. Safety is always the focus, and every camp day includes a full-day lift ticket so riders can keep practicing after the lesson ends. Sign up for a single Saturday or save with a 3- or 5-pack to keep the progression rolling.

Saturday Kids Camp isn’t just a lesson—it’s where young riders gain skills, confidence, and a true love for the sport. Spots fill quickly, so grab your dates today!

2025 Session Dates

Upcoming Dates & Programs

• • September 1 – Open Labor Day
  • September 2 – Fall Hours
  • September 5,6,7 – Adult Ayr Academy
  • September 14 & 15 – Adult Ayr Academy
  • September 20 & 21 – Women’s Gravity Weekend
  • September 20 & 21 – Women’s Adult Ayr Academy

Who says the kids get to have all the fun? Progression never stops, and our adult programs are here to help you take your riding to the next level. Whether you’re chasing confidence, speed, or style, we’ve got a lineup designed for you:

• Adult Ayr Academy – Fall Sessions
  Dial in your technique with Highland’s signature coaching program. Small groups, professional instruction, and plenty of time on the trails make this the ultimate way to progress.

• Women’s Gravity Weekend – September 20 &21
  A weekend dedicated to building confidence and community on two wheels. Join a crew of like-minded riders for focused skill development and a whole lot of stoke.

Reserve your spot now—spaces are limited!

• FRIDAY NIGHT RACE SERIES

  July 25 – Maiden Voyage
  August 1 – Bonesaw to Jack Rabbit Run
  August 15 – Maiden Voyage
  August 22 – Fancy Feast