The 5-Minute Rule: Know When to Hit It—or Walk Away
Learn how the 5-Minute Rule can help you ride safer and smarter when jumping on a mountain bike. Know when to commit—and when to walk away.
5/17/20251 min read
The 5-Minute Rule: Know When to Hit It—or Walk Away
When it comes to mountain bike jumping, one of the hardest parts isn’t physical—it’s mental.
The 5-Minute Rule is something I use all the time when I’m sizing up a new jump, especially if it’s big, sketchy, or out of my comfort zone. It’s about knowing your limits and avoiding rushed decisions that lead to crashes.
What Is the 5-Minute Rule?
If you stop at the lip of a jump and find yourself staring at it for more than five minutes, second-guessing everything…
That’s your sign.
If it’s been more than five minutes and you’re still unsure, don’t hit it.
Come back another day when your mind and body are in sync.
It’s not a rule about “getting hyped”—it’s about listening to your gut before you push something too soon.
Why It Matters
Most crashes on new jumps happen because riders:
Rush into it because of ego or peer pressure
Overthink the fear and freeze at the lip
Hesitate and case the landing hard
The 5-Minute Rule protects you from all of that. It’s a personal pause button—and a gut check.
But If You Are Ready—Then Hit It
When you feel locked in, confident, and you know you’ve visualized the run-up?
That’s when you go.
Commit fully. No second-guessing.
It’s not about being reckless—it’s about being mentally aligned when you drop in.
Final Thoughts
Not every jump needs to be hit today. The 5-Minute Rule isn’t about being scared—it’s about being smart.
Take the time. Trust your gut.
If today’s not the day? No shame. You’ll come back stronger.
