Ben Plenge is a professional mountain bike coach and founder of The Strength Factory. He’s trained pro riders and also hundreds of amateurs over the years both in person and online.
- Why did you choose to focus on strength and fitness training for mountain bikers specifically?
- According to your website your most popular workout program is Bodyweight Strength. Is there a limit to the effectiveness of these simple exercises?
- What are some ways to improve riding fitness that don’t take time away from “just for fun” rides?
- What’s different about how pro athletes train versus amateurs? Are some riders born faster than others?
- What’s different about MTB strength training in your 40s versus your 20s?
- Why do riders tend to experience more pain as we age?
- Does becoming a better climber make you a faster descender? (enduro, personal experience)
- Is there a certain body type that works best for certain types of riding?
- What’s the #1 misconception mountain bikers have about strength and fitness training?
Connect with Ben and learn more at thestrengthfactory.uk.
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1 Comments
Oct 5, 2023
As a 64 year old longtime resistance trainer, climber, and mountain biker, I am often times appaled at what passes for evidence based training advice, as it is usually just sensationalist and antidotal. Despite my initial skepticism, expecting more of the same, I found Ben to be a breath of fresh air with his honest and practical advice.
I concur that proper resistance training is mission critical to riding better and avoiding injuries, especially as you age. Unfortunately, I have also experinced numerous nagging injuries resulting from improper training, so solid advice based in science is a must.
Thanks so much for making me aware of a great resource that would have otherwise never have come to my attention.