At Veteran Motorcross Foundation members support each other’s motocross skills development, whether to leverage the therapeutic benefits of motocross riding or to compete in competitive motocross events. As a body of members, we all serve each other through community development, motocross skills development, and by collaborating with sponsors to improve accessibility to the sport of motocross. Each member is encouraged to become a future coach or champion.
COMMUNITY
THERAPY
ACCESSIBILITY
Throttle therapy: Veterans find peace of mind in motocross
On the surface we support skills development for veteran motocross riders of all skill levels. On a deeper level, we provide a therapeutic environment that creates opportunities for mental, physical, and personal development where traditional veteran services may fall short.
Why It Works
Physically
Motocross riding is very physical, relying heavily on the body’s core for balance and stability. It is rigorous therapy for muscle groups, while building neural coordination in nontraditional fun atmosphere. Unlike most physical activities motocross riding can be taken up by many amputees that cannot participate in traditional sports. Motocross involves seven points of contact with the bike and a result vets with amputations or other disabilities can compensate for their disabilities and control the bike.
Why It Works
Mentally
We provide the opportunity for veterans to experience motocross by providing coaching, riding equipment, and use of motocross facilities. Once on the bike, the fast-paced action and concentration provides a very individualized “in the moment” experience. Being “in the zone” can allow riders to achieve a break from unhealthy mental states. We create space for group discussion and social interaction. It is important to give veterans opportunities to connect, talk, and share experiences. These factors provide a sense of belonging, and improve confidence.
Veterans MX is an entirely new kind of program for Veterans:
A joint lifestyle enrichment and recovery solution, Veteran Motocross Foundation empowers veterans struggling with the physical and mental scars of service to leverage the benefits of motocross. While tapping into the thrill seeking personality that makes our service men and women so brave in combat, Veteran Motocross Foundation instructors leverage the process of teaching a new skill to arm vets with the physical and mental discipline and prowess required to effectively heal, recover, and re-assimilate.
