What to Expect at Practice

December 2025 • Coach Z

A Calm, Organized Practice Structure

Trailcats practices follow a predictable structure so riders know what’s coming and parents know their kids are in good hands. Each practice is led by trained coaches and supported by assistant coaches who help keep groups small, focused, and safe.

Practices are typically two hours long and include:

• A team meeting and check-in

• Skill instruction and practice

• Trail riding or applied drills

• Built-in breaks for water and rest
  
  

We prioritize clarity and routine, especially for new riders, so no one feels lost or rushed.

Riders Are Grouped by Ability (Not Age)

One of the biggest concerns parents have is whether their child will “keep up.” The short answer: they don’t have to.

Riders are grouped primarily by ability and comfort level, not by age or experience on paper. That means:

• New riders learn fundamentals at an appropriate pace

• Experienced riders stay challenged and engaged

• No one is pressured to ride beyond their comfort zone
  
  

Groups are fluid. As riders gain confidence and skills, they may move to a different group during the season, and that’s something we celebrate.

Safety Is Always the Top Priority

Safety is built into everything we do.

Every practice includes:

• Helmet checks before riding

• Bike checks for brakes, tires, and basic function

• Clear expectations for trail etiquette and spacing

• Coaches positioned at the front and back of each group
  
  

Riders are encouraged to speak up if something doesn’t feel right, whether that’s fatigue, a mechanical issue, or nerves about a section of trail. Learning to advocate for themselves is part of becoming a confident rider.

Crashes and falls do happen occasionally (it’s part of learning), but practices are designed to minimize risk while still allowing kids to challenge themselves in a controlled environment.

What Parents Can Expect

Parents are always welcome at practice. Some choose to watch, some walk the trails, and others use the time to connect with other families.

You can expect:

• Clear communication from coaches

• A supportive, encouraging environment

• Emphasis on effort and improvement, not speed or competition

• Respect for each rider’s comfort level
  
  

You’ll also notice that practices are about more than biking. Riders learn teamwork, responsibility, trail stewardship, and resilience—all while having fun.

A Typical Two-Hour Practice

While exact details may vary depending on location and weather, a typical practice looks like this:

1. Team Huddle and Warm Up (10-15 minutes)
   We start together as a team to review the plan for the day, go over safety reminders, and break into groups.

2. Skills Instruction (20-30 minutes)
   Groups work on specific skills such as braking, shifting, cornering, body position, or trail awareness. Coaches demonstrate, then riders practice in a low-pressure setting.

3. Applied Riding (45-60 minutes)
   Riders take those skills onto the trail or into structured riding drills. Coaches give feedback and encouragement along the way.

4. Regroup and Wrap-Up (10-15 minutes)
   We finish by checking in, celebrating progress, and sharing reminders for the next practice.

No Experience Required - Just Willingness to Try

Many Trailcats riders start the season unsure of themselves. That’s normal. Confidence comes quickly when kids realize they’re supported, not judged.

All we ask is that riders:

• Show up ready to learn

• Listen to coaches

• Try their best
  
  

Everything else (skills, fitness, confidence) comes with time.

You’re in the Right Place

Your first practice doesn’t need to be perfect. Bikes don’t need to be fancy. Riders don’t need to be fast.

They just need a place where they feel safe, encouraged, and excited to ride.

We’re glad you’re here and we can’t wait to ride with you.