Weighting that pedal, like Oak said, is oh so critical to lower the center of balance on the bike and improving traction. If you've got any wide open, slalomly singletrack, experiment on your mtb to feel the traction hook up. As our trails get dusty in the summer, it makes a HUGE difference. Of course, you can only do this where you know there are no rocks lying in wait. You can feel it on a road bike also, but it can be easier to test out on your mtb.
Frends know gud humors when dey is hear it. ~ Da Crockydiles of ZZE.