Gasoline in the Blood - The Felix Melnikoff Column # 4

Season preparation – phase 2

After I described phase 1 of my season preparation in detail in my last column, today I come to the “sporty” phase 2 and the implementation of my training plan.

Strength and endurance training

Good fitness is the foundation for a successful season. So after my training break, strictly according to the training plan, I spent many hours with strength and endurance training in my own gym. Thanks to Santa Claus, he is now well equipped with a roller trainer in addition to a rowing machine, stepper, weight bench, etc.

Private picture: Endurance training on skis

But a lot was also possible in the fresh air. This winter, completely untypical for the Spreewald, there was so much snow that I could even do my endurance units on cross-country skis.

Coordination and balance

Training on my trial bike is perfect for improving balance and coordination even without a motorcycle. I am quite challenged, as I regularly get new video exercises from Spain from Alba Villegas Bosch, the two-time Spanish runner-up in the trial world, which I then have to nibble on.

Training on the motorcycle

My favorite training module is and will always be training on the motorcycle. Unfortunately, an Italy training camp with the ADAC Berlin / Brandenburg was not possible this year. But the weather allowed me to train on my motorcycle for at least a few days during the winter holidays at home.

Private picture: Felix during winter training

Since I’ve grown a bit since the summer, the switch from the 85cc to the 125cc was not difficult for me. But first I had to get used to the very different driving behavior of my two motorcycles. The KTM MX and Enduro machines differ considerably in terms of handling.

Technology – the right attitude

It wasn’t that easy to find the right settings. It was good that it was slowly becoming possible to train again on some of the routes and that I was now able to ride out the crossers properly. My KTM dealer Krahl & Kroschel took care of the optimal engine setup and Marc from ORS took care of my personal suspension settings.

Private picture: Training at MC Fürstenwalde

Improving my driving technique

The best fitness and the perfect motorcycle are of no use if the driving technique is not right. From whom can one learn the technique better than from the master? So I am grateful for every training session with Dennis and I try to implement every tip to improve my posture and my cornering speed. My homework is clear. Elbow up and gas!

Focus on the start of the race

Well prepared for the new season, I now hope that it will start soon, and especially this year, halfway planned. I would like to report on my first races at the ADAC Enduro Kids Cup Berlin / Brandenbrug or the Enduro Youth Cup East soon. Let’s see until then