1. Be Ready for Anything
Freestyle Motocross riders will encounter a number of obstacles over which they must jump. They can do any kind of trick they want to get over these ramps and flyovers, but when they miss the landing, that's when bones crack and heads bounce. Freestyle Motocross bikers are, by nature, more risk-averse than their peers in other Motocross events. While all Motocross riders need to think about how they can prevent injuries, freestyle riders need to be especially careful that their protective gear is in good working order and will cover them if they land on their heads or slam onto a ramp from 30 feet in the air. Your helmet should be lightweight and strap under the chin snugly and comfortably. You should get a new helmet and not take a chance with a used one that may have some hidden stress cracks.
2. Get Strong
Strong muscles will make it easier to manage the bike and control its movement. When you are airborne and want to flip your bike upside down, you need to be able to tighten your abs and use them to avoid a back injury. You need a strong core to just pick up the bike when it's traveling. Freestyle Motocross riders spend a lot of time in the air and need a strong back. Add twisting to your crunches and sit-ups to strengthen the oblique muscles. Try to touch your elbow to the opposite knee with your hands behind your back when doing sit-ups. Stand with free weights in each hand and alternately let each drop. You need to be able to control your bike to set the wheels down safely after a jump. Use free weights liberally to strengthen all your back and arm muscles.
3. Check Out the Terrain
Take time to look over the area where you will be landing. It's not the going up that is dangerous, but the coming down. If you know that you will have a steep drop, you can make sure to check that all your protective gear is in place. You won't have to ride as fast to get the distance you'll need to flip and land in good condition. If you are landing on a hard surface, adjust your body so that the back wheels hit the pavement first, followed by the thumping front wheel. Always protect your body before giving way to any trick that leaves you unable to land safely. Let go of your bike and go into a body roll, using your shoulders and thighs as landing gear.
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