The Secret Weapon of Every Great Racer: The Offseason

For most riders, the fall means the racing season is winding down. Long weekends at the track, travel, and back-to-back motos are finally behind you. It can be tempting to take your foot off the gas and step away from training altogether. And make no mistake, a little rest is very much a good thing! But here’s the truth: the offseason is where champions are built and your 2026 ambitions start.

The fall/winter months offer an incredible opportunity to reset your body, rebuild your fitness, and focus on the details that will pay off when the gate drops next spring. At Troll Training, we’ve seen time and again that the athletes who use the fall and winter wisely are the ones who make the biggest leaps once racing starts up again.

1. Build a Stronger Foundation in the Gym

During the season, most riders have limited time and energy to lift weights. That’s why the offseason is the best time to make real gains in the gym. Strength training builds durability, reduces injury risk, and improves overall bike control.

Focus on compound movements like squats, deadlifts, pull-ups, and pressing variations. Add core stability work and single-leg strength to improve balance and control through corners and rough sections of the track.

Remember—strong legs and a strong core mean you can handle the bike with less effort, saving energy for when it counts most.

Master Troll’s favorite strength exercise is the deadlift!

2. Prioritize Aerobic Conditioning

When you think motocross, you think intensity. But underneath that intensity is an endurance engine that keeps you going for 30 minutes plus two laps or in off road races where the races are 2+ hours. The offseason is the time to develop that aerobic base.

Zone 2 training (steady, conversational-paced cardio like running, cycling, rowing, or skiing) might not feel flashy, but it builds the aerobic capacity that lets you recover faster between motos and maintain a high pace deep into the race.

Even just 2–3 longer aerobic sessions per week can make a massive difference in the spring.

Cycling Athlete Ryan in action!

3. Address Weak Points and Technical Skills

Every rider has weak points—whether it’s corner speed, starts, braking habits, poor technique, line choice poor aerobic conditioning, flexibility or strength. During the busy race season, it’s tough to slow down and work on these details.

Use the offseason to take a step back. Break down your technique with focused practice sessions or video analysis. Work on your flexibility with mobility routines or yoga. Add riding drills that target specific areas like braking efficiency or body positioning.

The offseason is a perfect time for slow(er), deliberate practice that pays off with smoother, more efficient riding later.

4. Recharge and Reset

Motocross is one of the most physically and mentally demanding sports in the world. After months of racing, it’s normal to feel drained. That’s why the offseason is also about rest.

Sleep, recovery routines, proper nutrition, and time away from the bike are all important pieces of the puzzle. This would also be a good time to get a blood test so you can analyze any nutrient deficiencies that have popped up after months of hard training.  Recharging now will not only prevent burnout but also help you come into next season fresh and motivated.

5. Set Your Sights on 2026

Fall is also the best time to step back and look ahead. Where do you want to be next year? What results are you chasing? What areas do you need to improve?

Write down specific goals for the upcoming season—both on and off the bike. Having a clear vision for where you want to go makes it easier to structure your training and stay consistent during the long winter months.

Final Thoughts

The offseason isn’t just a break—it’s an opportunity. Strength gains, endurance development, technical improvements, and mental recharge all happen now. The riders who take advantage of these months are the ones who show up in the spring faster, fitter, and more prepared.

At Troll Training, we design our programs with this in mind. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or chasing championships, your 2026 results will be shaped by the work you put in this offseason.

So don’t waste this window—make the most of your offseason! 💪

- Alex

Want us to take the guesswork out for you? Check out the many programs we offer to help here.