It’s getting to be that time again when we are counting down the days until the first gate drop of the season. We all wonder if we are doing everything we can as an athlete to be prepared for the busy season ahead. Do you ever ask yourself, what can you do to be better at this sport that we all have to come love so much? Ever wonder what it takes to become a Pro Rider in the sport of ATVs and how they train and get ready?
We sat down with Pro ATVMX rider Joel Hetrick to see what his routine is to make sure he is fully prepared to take on another busy race season. Joel explains, “I try to ride 3-4 times a week” since the weather isn’t always the best in the northern states, Joel heads south for a few months and is currently riding at Decker’s Training Facility in Florida. He tries to exercise 5-6 times a week and track all of the calories he eats. Joel also tracks his sleep and heart rate daily to give him an idea of what he should be doing that day. Joel told us, “When practicing I try to mock a normal race day, doing this I try to eat at the right times, wake up at the right times, stretch and ride my motors for that day as strong as I can. I monitor my lap times to make sure I’m not slacking”. If you have attended an ATVMX National race, you see many pro riders out there giving it their all. They make it look so easy, but behind the scenes comes a lot of hard work and dedication to be able to compete in this sport. Joel also adds, “If you want to be at the top, you have to work for it.” Joel suggests, “You practice as much as you can and stay active. In the off-season, play other sports to help you stay in shape and watch YouTube videos of your favorite riders. Always remember to “have fun!”
Now that you know what it takes to be prepared through the eyes of a pro rider, you also need to make sure your quad is ready too!
Some helpful tips to follow below:
- Check over your entire quad, especially the frame to make sure there are no cracks or breaks
- Check your tires for wear and tear and also the right amount of air
- Check the oil and gas
- Check your front and back brakes to ensure they are working properly
- Most importantly, make sure you have all the proper riding/safety gear and that it fits properly (goggles, gloves, chest guard, neck brace, and helmet)
Joel Hetrick preparing for a practice session for the 2022 Race Season
*Disclaimer* DRR encourages safe riding! Do not ride quads if you have not taken proper safety courses, the quad is too big, and/or you do not have adult supervision.