<p>Josh Whitmore is the founder of the <a href="https://www.mtbskillsfactory.com/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">MTB Skills Factory</a> (mtbskillsfactory.com) in Brevard, North Carolina. He&#39;s a Level 4 certified mountain bike coach and he’s spent more than 25 years helping riders, from total beginners to professional racers, improve their skills and confidence on the trail. We&#39;ll dig into what makes riders better: how to train your instincts, how to practice effectively, and what separates skill from fitness on the trail.</p><ul><li>What makes the best mountain bikers great? Is it line choice, body position, mental focus, or something else?</li><li>How can riders recognize whether their biggest limitation is technical or mental?</li><li>What does “failing forward” mean when it comes to learning new skills?</li><li>What’s the biggest mistake riders make when they’re trying to practice skills?</li><li>If someone only has an hour to practice each week, what’s the most effective way to use that time?</li><li>What subtle habits separate a “pretty good” rider from someone who’s really dialed?</li><li>How do you balance fitness and skill in your own training, and what should riders prioritize?</li><li>From a coach’s perspective, what’s actually happening when a rider hits that “flow” state?</li><li>Is there a way to measure progress in skills that isn’t tied to race times or Strava segments?</li><li>From your perspective, what defines a professional mountain bike coach, and what should riders look for when choosing one?</li><li>Is there any kind of certification or background that really matters, or is it more about experience and results?</li></ul><ul><li>What’s one small thing riders could do today that would immediately make them better?</li></ul><p>An automated transcript will be available at Singletracks.com later today.</p><p>Follow Singletracks on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠@singletracks⁠⁠⁠ to keep up with the latest mountain bike news.</p>