Im a casual road rider, motor crosser, trail rider and few enduros in my time. More recently I have been loving twin shock trials. Some of the great guys at these events have been coaching me on body positioning, rear brake and throttle control [against each other to slow and balance - especially good tip for u turns on big roadies]. I believe it has made a huge difference to my riding overall and I thoroughly enjoy the sport.
Its also a principle consistent with sports psychology [and probably the same principal as muscle memory] that is, to go fast learn perfect form slowly and then add speed.
Stefan Merriman was an x trials rider and he career speaks for itself.