I’ve ordered a DIY kit for a starting gate. Once it clears customs, I’ll have the electronic magnetic release and a timer setup. There’s an app that uses your phone/tablet as the communication device to control box, voice command and simulated light tree. I’m considering designs. Primary parameters: - portable, lightweight to be carried by 1 person - Modular to be able to add a second as desired - Realistic drop and traction - Width? 12-24”? - Length? 4 ‘? Anyone think I missed anything or have a great set of plans that fits the bill? I’ve got some plans for east wood setup. But thinking of options.

Riding BMX can be so casual that it can be easy to forget that when you are racing competitively that you are also an athlete. It’s ok if you don’t exercise outside of riding. Sometimes that is the exercise. Also, if you are just here for the community then fist bumps and high fives is where it’s at. However, if you want to improve standings, learn new skills, be faster on the track or just be more physically fit exercise will get you there faster. Because BMX isn’t as formal about practice as other sports this will require you to do the work on your own. So what exercises do you do? What should you do? And why are you doing it? Here are five exercises that can be done anywhere to get started: 1. Push ups - to help with bike control and pumping 2. Squats - leg mobility and power for pumping and starts 3. Walking Lunges - more power on starts, pedaling out corners and obstacles 4. Jumping jacks - for pedaling, jumping and pumping 5. Bicycles - building core strength for pedaling and general bike control If you do 5-10 repetitions of each exercise 3 times in a row at least twice a week or more you will not only improve your fitness, but will see improvements on the track. What do you do for exercise?

I started riding BMX this summer after my daughter 8 and son, Isaac, 5 finished league and didn’t need help from me anymore. I figured it would be fun and knew my kids would love seeing me ride with them. My daughter likes to ride, but doesn’t care for racing. So she’s being supportive and like to watch my son and I race! Isaac and I had a busy schedule but made time to race locally at Lincoln Park BMX in Port Angeles and practice at our local pump track. He won his 10th race and moved up to Inter. And now asks when I’m going to move up?! I love the community, camaraderie, and support given by everyone I’ve met. Looking forward to exploring more tracks and sharing some great experiences! And I’ll likely drag my twin brother into it! Heeheehee.

Tell us about yourself! How long have you been in BMX racing? What’s your home track? Share a picture or video riding your bike.

I want to help make BMX coaching and training more accessible to riders, parents, teams and coaches to improve riders and their general experience with BMX racing. What would help me is your input. You are a small group of people I trust will give me honest feedback on what would be helpful to you as we build this community! What kind of content would be helpful? If you have other ideas please tell me in the comments👇