Jason Boulle’s Tips on How to Conquer The Karkloof Mountain Bike Trail
The Karkloof region is renowned for its breathtaking mountain biking trails, and who better to guide you through them than elite enduro mountain biker Jason Boulle? Having grown up in the area, Jason knows these trails like the back of his hand. With the upcoming WW X TRI event taking place in Karkloof, his insights are the perfect guide to help you train and ride like a pro.
Training Like a Pro
Jason’s training structure is a mix of endurance, strength, and strategic recovery. Here’s what he recommends:
Endurance Training: “Keep the long rides (2+ hours) easy and consistent,” says Jason. This builds a solid base of fitness over time.
Strength and Intervals: Incorporate harder interval sessions weekly. “Low cadence/torque intervals can be great for building strength and pedaling efficiency. Try 3-4 minutes of effort, 4 to 6 times, with equal rest in between.”
Cross-Training: Trail running or kayaking can complement your training. “I enjoy steep, technical trail runs—they’re great for fitness and mental toughness.”
Skills and Techniques to Master
Skills are just as important as fitness when it comes to conquering the Karkloof trails. Jason shares the top skills to practice:
Keeping Your Head Stable: “A stable head allows you to read terrain properly,” Jason explains. Focus on good body positioning with supple ankles, flexed knees, a strong hip hinge, and slightly bent elbows.
Looking Ahead: “Always scan ahead on the trail. The faster you go, the further ahead you need to look.” This improves confidence and reaction time.
Braking Control: “Confidence in technical terrain starts with excellent braking control.” Practice modulating your speed and braking before technical features to maintain flow.
Master Cornering: “Corners are all about technique and repetition,” Jason says. Key tips include braking early, entering wide, leaning the bike more than your body, and looking through the corner to where you want to exit.
Jason Boulle on how to master the corners.
Fuelling for Success
You can have all the skills and training in the world, but if you’re not fueling properly, it won’t matter.
Pre-Ride or Pre-Race Nutrition: “I go for oats and berries with yogurt or milk and a bit of honey,” Jason shares. Eat 2-3 hours before the ride to allow digestion.
During the Ride: “Start fuelling the day before,” Jason recommends. On the bike, aim for 1 gram of carbs per kg of body mass per hour. Practice with bars, gels, or drink mixes during training to find what works for you.
Post-Ride Recovery: “A recovery shake right after finishing, followed by a wholesome, colorful meal later,” Jason suggests. Pair this with a cool-down ride if needed and prioritise good quality sleep.
Jason Boulle’s Final Tips for Beginners
Jason’s advice for those starting their mountain biking journey or looking to improve:
Don’t Overlook Equipment: “Full-suspension bikes aren’t just for older riders. They offer better traction and composure in rough terrain,” Jason notes.
Invest in Skills Training: “Get a skills coach or follow a good YouTube coach. Commit to 1 or 2 skills sessions a week for a month. You’ll see a huge difference.”
Avoid Common Mistakes: “Sitting down during technical terrain and leaning back too much on steep descents are common errors.” Record yourself riding to identify and correct these habits.
Jason Boulle’s tips offer a well-rounded approach to tackling the Karkloof trails. With the right training, skills, and nutrition, you’ll be ready to take on the WW X TRI event with confidence and style. Happy riding!
