There are various mountain bike sport disciplines of which the cross-country marathon (XCM) discipline is currently, contrary to the rest of the world, the most popular discipline in South Africa. The only mountain bike discipline hosted as an Olympic discipline, and globally the most popular mountain bike discipline, is cross-country Olympic (XCO). Of all mountain bike disciplines, XCO consist of lap racing around a short circuit containing various obstacles that must be negotiated and offers the most fun. Apart from physical fitness, XCO also requires bike handling skills not required within XCM, and a well-maintained mountain bike. The level of technical skills required for XCO is the primary reason why most mountain bikers perceive XCO as “too difficult”! XCO is the ultimate means-to-an-end to ensure you get the most from your mountain bike!