1. Flying Bikes
Nowhere is evolution and revolution so intense as in BMX, or Bicycle Motocross. Many BMX riders find they are more proficient in one form of riding than another. Vert BMX is a freestyle form that was made famous by riders like Dave Clinton, Bruce Chavez and Dave Tuttle on the streets of Southern California. They took their 20-inch Schwinns and made them airborne, capturing the imagination of generations of young bike riders.
2. Freestyle is the Mother of Invention
It's during freestyle BMX riding that new tricks are born and riders perfect their style. The tricks and stunts riders use to freestyle help them progress to new levels. Freestyle BMX is practiced primarily for fun. Many proponents of freestyle riding feel it deserves recognition for its creativity and intricate tricks; they hold competitions with judges who are also freestyle riders and can appreciate the techniques. One of the stunts developed in freestyle riding is the vert, which is recognized and counted in rankings.
3. Get Vertical
The vert is a riding style that is done on flat surfaces, as well as in the air. Ramps are built to send the rider flying. In the air, the rider gets his or bike in a vertical position and tries to land back on two wheels. Stunts and other amazing extreme movements that are done at a 90-degree angle qualify as verts. BMX Vert competition is one of the most exciting sports to watch at the X-Games. The sport may be dropped from the X-Games, causing considerable controversy in the freestyle BMX community.
4. Cover Your Head
BMX is a dangerous sport and responsible riders wear the proper gear, which includes helmets, long pants and enclosed shoes. But outside of the sponsored, sanctioned tournaments, freestyle and vert riders are notorious for skimping on the pads and proper dress. No one can race for money or prizes without this gear. If you wear nothing else while performing these aerial stunts, wear a good padded helmet.
5. Prepare for Longterm Riding
Injuries abound in BMX. From novices to the most experienced riders, all get hurt at some point in their training and competing. Athletes who want to stay in the sport and push their bodies and their bikes to new limits should train off the bike as well. Vert riders need to build a strong core to operate their bikes in the air when they have no outside momentum. Crunches will help to keep the abs and back strong enough to handle the high-flying tricks, while leg pumps and weight lifting can reinforce the strength needed in the arms and legs.
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