6. On the Starting Line:

Be sure to arrive at the staging area early enough to insure a front line start. At bigger events this may be 30-45 minutes ahead of your actual start time. Often I will have a rider warm up on a trainer close to the start to help guarantee a good starting place. Once on the line all of your energy should be focused on the event. Go over the course in your head Where can you attack others and establish a good gap, where are you vulnerable to others attacks? How will the start be handled. How far to the first single track (most of this should be covered on the pre ride). Don’t sit on your bike trying to look real cool for 30 minutes, move around it a bit. Stretch, and keep your lungs and legs clear. Ideally you will hit the starting line with a nice sweat going. Try to keep your muscles warm by massaging them a little, or maybe try a light lotion or analgesic on your legs to help with circulation and warmth.

Next Page - The Start