How to Be a Great Role Model for Your Kids on Mountain Bike Trails
For those that work with kids or have kids of their own, I wanted to provide you some fun insight on what helps me when I work with kids! When kids learn how to mountain bike or grow deeper into the sport they’re not just learning how to corner, brake, or ride over roots. They’re learning how to show up in different circumstances. And more often than not, they’re learning it by watching you. Whether you ride alongside them or cheer from the trailhead, your presence matters more than perfection. 1. Ride the Way You Want Them to Ride: Kids notice how you handle challenges. When a climb feels hard or a trail feature feels intimidating, your response sets the tone. Taking a breath, choosing patience, and speaking kindly about yourself teaches resilience far more effectively than pushing through with frustration. It’s okay to say, “That was tricky for me too.” That honesty builds confidence, not fear. 2. Model Respect—for Trails, Bikes, and People: How you talk about other riders, trail builders, coaches, and even your own bike sends a message. Respect for trail etiquette, gratitude for volunteers, and care for equipment all show kids that mountain biking is about community, not just skill. Pause to thank a trail builder. Slow down for other riders. These moments stick. 3. Focus on Effort, Not Outcomes: Instead of praising speed or bravery alone, highlight effort, curiosity, and progress. Statements like “I loved how you kept trying” or “You listened to your body today” help kids develop a healthy relationship with sport—one rooted in self-trust rather than comparison. 4. Talk Through Your Choices: Let kids hear your decision-making process. Saying things like, “I’m choosing to walk this today because I want to stay safe,” teaches discernment and self-awareness. This shows them that strength includes knowing your limits.