skatepro242

I respect you for sharing your truth, but I think the premise of "the culture of MTBer's downplaying injuries is toxic and an unnatural response" is untrue for a large percentage of us. A lot of men especially respond much better to the stoic, masculine "you're a tough MF bro, you'll be back soon" comments than the sympathizing, vulnerable, more feminine comments, both in self talk and externally. Not saying that applies to all men or all women, but doing super gnarly stuff tends to attract a lot of masculine type. That is our truth. We honestly feel better with that attitude than expressing vulnerability and having sympathy pour over us. For people like us there's nothing "toxic" about it, it's our truth. Just like being more vulnerable is your truth. I've been riding gap jumps for about 25 years, had my fair share of injuries, and seen many friends have serious injuries. Everyone who takes on serious risk for the love of the sport acutely understands the consequences, yet we choose to do it anyway. I think every mountain biker should express their attitude towards injuries the way that aligns with their truth. And my truth is not the same as yours.