MOTOCROSS ACTION MID-WEEK REPORT

Sometimes, we see riders disagreeing after a moto or even overly aggressive riding on the track. Some may say that the rider is dirty or shouldn’t have attempted that pass, but did you know there’s a scientific response to this? As many have heard, the term “Fight or Flight ” an automatic physiological reaction to an event perceived as stressful or frightening.

Research has shown that acute stress responses, including the fight or flight response, can significantly impact behavior and emotions. For instance, a study published in “Psychosomatic Medicine” (2005) found that individuals exposed to acute stressors exhibited increased anger and aggression. Another study in “Psychological Science” (2007) demonstrated that stress can reduce impulse control and increase the likelihood of aggressive responses. So what does this mean?

Increased Heart Rate and Blood Pressure: The sympathetic nervous system triggers the release of adrenaline, which leads to an increased heart rate and elevated blood pressure. This physiological response prepares the body for action but can also make a person feel more agitated and prone to anger.

Rapid Breathing: The body’s need for oxygen increases during the fight or flight response, leading to rapid and shallow breathing. This can result in a feeling of tension and frustration, which can exacerbate rage.

Heightened Emotional Response: The amygdala, a part of the brain responsible for processing emotions, becomes more active during the fight or flight response. This can intensify anger, fear, or frustration in response to a stressful situation.

Impaired Cognitive Function: The increased release of stress hormones can impair cognitive functions such as decision-making and impulse control. This can make it more challenging for individuals to manage their emotions and reactions, potentially leading to rage.

Muscle Tension: The body prepares for physical action by tensing muscles, which can lead to physical discomfort and a sense of restlessness. This muscle tension can contribute to feelings of irritability and anger.

Decreased Rational Thinking: The brain’s prefrontal cortex, responsible for rational thinking and reasoning, can be temporarily impaired during the fight or flight response. This can result in impulsive and aggressive behavior, including rage.

SMX STARTS THIS WEEKEND

The three-race SuperMotocross (SMX) Playoffs start this weekend, Sept 8-9, at ZMAX Dragway at Charlotte Motor Speedway. Practice, Pre-race media, and family events will be held on Friday. All qualifying and racing will be on Saturday, the 9th.

It will be exciting to see if Jett Lawrence can continue his streak from the Motocross Series or if riders like Ken Roczen, Justin Barcia, or Chase Sexton can run him down. It is an experience for the fans to get in on some of the action on Friday and Saturday.  Fan Fest 8 am-6 pm, Opening Ceremonies 2:30 pm, Gate Drop 3 pm.

MXA THROWBACK OF GLEN HELEN 2012

Glen Helen still looks very similar today, but notice the added turn and hill section. 

Brock Sellards on his Honda FMF 125. That bike sure looked terrific.

MXA Trivia answer: Bengt Aberg on a rear-forked Bultaco