Aging on Dirt

Aging on Dirt

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Aging on Dirt episodes

  • Dr. Paul Lawless-LaStayo: Why/How to Properly Recover

    Summary



    In this conversation, Joel Zieve discusses the importance of recovery as we age and how it can help us maintain our performance and enjoyment of mountain biking. He interviews Dr. Paul Lawlass-LaStayo, a retired physical therapist and avid mountain biker, who shares his insights and experiences on recovery. They discuss the need for intentional recovery, the signs of overdoing training or rest, and the importance of balancing high-intensity rides with rest and recovery. They also touch on the role of strength training and active recovery techniques in the recovery process.



    Keywords


    recovery, aging, mountain biking, performance, rest, balance, strength training, active recovery



    Takeaways


    Recovery is essential for maintaining performance and enjoyment of mountain biking as we age.

    Intentional recovery, including rest days and active recovery techniques, should make up at least 50% of our training time.

    Balancing high-intensity rides with rest and recovery is crucial for avoiding overtraining and injury.

    Strength training is important for maintaining muscle mass and overall strength as we age.

    Recovery is trainable, and individuals can learn to recover and absorb high-intensity training.

    Competition is different for everyone, and it's important to set performance goals and strive to improve while also prioritizing recovery.



    Titles


    The Importance of Recovery as We Age

    The Role of Strength Training in Recovery



    Sound Bites


    "The deeper I go, the more I need to pull back and recover."

    "We lose track of some of the soul and feels that come with racing, riding, going hard on dirt."

    "Recovery is something that has many phases and aspects to it."



    Chapters


    00:00 Introduction and Personal Experience with Recovery

    07:02 The Importance of Zone Two Riding and Feel

    09:23 The Overwhelming Amount of Data and the Importance of Soul and Feel

    13:11 The Importance of Recovery and Overloading in Little Dosages

    15:01 The Signs and Symptoms of Overdoing Training or Rest

    23:34 The Need for Intentional Recovery and Avoiding Overtraining

    26:00 The Emotional Aspect of Recovery and Enjoying Other Activities

    28:16 Conclusion and Call to Action


    29 min
  • Matt Howard & Joel Zieve: eBike Differences

    Summary


    In this conversation, Joel Zieve and Matt Howard discuss the differences between mountain bikes and e-mountain bikes, focusing on maintenance and riding skills. They highlight the increased wear and tear on components due to the extra power generated by e-bikes (and also the added weight). They emphasize the importance of proper maintenance, such as checking chain wear and caring for the battery. They also discuss riding techniques, including power management, shifting gears, and climbing skills. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the benefits of e-bikes, such as exploring new trails and going on bigger adventures.



    Keywords


    mountain bikes, e-mountain bikes, maintenance, riding skills, wear and tear, components, power management, shifting gears, climbing skills, benefits



    Takeaways


    E-bikes generate more torque and power, leading to increased wear and tear on components such as the chain, cassette, and chainring.

    Proper maintenance is crucial for e-bikes, including checking chain wear, caring for the battery, and managing power modes.

    Riding techniques for e-bikes include power management, shifting gears, and climbing skills.

    E-bikes provide the opportunity for more adventures, exploring new trails, and riding with faster riders.

    Seeking lessons or guidance from experts can help improve riding skills and maximize the benefits of e-bikes.



    Titles


    Unlocking New Adventures with E-Bikes

    Maintaining Your E-Bike: Tips for Longevity



    Sound Bites


    "Things wear out faster. That torque that's generated, well you've got extra power and it's wearing out the chain, the cassette, the chainring faster."

    "The battery is actually the biggest area of problem. And the lack of maintenance that's happening, Joel, is from as basic as get your batteries out of the direct sunlight and heat as a being stored."

    "A heavier bike is going to require you to have the skills to manage that extra weight and then the power. It almost seems kind of contradictory at a point you think, okay, well, I've got more power. It should be easier."



    Chapters


    00:00 Introduction

    04:24 Differences in Maintenance

    09:05 Caring for the Motor and Battery

    15:49 Wear and Tear on Components

    31:01 Climbing Skills and Power Management

    38:45 Benefits of E-Bikes

    42:19 Conclusion

    43 min
  • Joel Zieve: Challenge Yourself Before Life Does

    Summary


    Joel Zieve shares his personal story of how he got into mountain biking and the positive changes it brought to his life. He emphasizes the importance of challenging oneself and setting big goals to continue growing and improving. Joel also discusses his journey in becoming a mountain bike coach and the joy he finds in helping others improve their skills. He talks about his podcast, Aging on Dirt, and his goal of providing valuable content for aging riders. Overall, Joel's story is inspiring and highlights the transformative power of mountain biking.



    Keywords


    mountain biking, challenges, goals, personal growth, coaching, podcast



    Takeaways


    Life is about keeping yourself challenged and mentally strong.

    Setting big goals and working towards them can lead to personal growth and positive changes.

    Mountain biking can be a transformative activity that improves physical and mental well-being.

    Becoming a coach and helping others improve their skills can be incredibly rewarding.

    The podcast, Aging on Dirt, aims to provide valuable content for aging riders.



    Titles


    The Transformative Power of Setting Big Goals

    Becoming a Coach: Helping Others Improve Their Skills



    Sound Bites


    "Life is about keeping yourself challenged."

    "If you purposely do things that are mentally difficult, then you're going to be mentally stronger for when the non-purposeful things about life come and get thrown at you."

    "I do it because whether it's in a clinic or one-on-one when I see the improvement that I can help someone make and I'm able, and I know that the way I communicated helped them do that and they're going to be safer and have more fun on the trails. That's incredibly rewarding to me."



    Chapters


    00:00 Introduction

    02:57 Joel's Journey into Mountain Biking

    09:04 Challenging Rides and Achievements

    12:50 Taking on Triathlons and Overcoming Fears

    20:59 Becoming a Mountain Bike Coach

    24:18 Giving Back to the Community

    28:04 The Inspiration Behind the Podcast

    32:23 Winter Activities and Future Goals

    35:15 Closing Thoughts

    37 min
  • Dr. Cameron Garber: Importance of 80/20, Zone 2 for Aging Riders

    Summary


    Dr. Cameron Gerber discusses the importance of zone 2 training for aging athletes and weekend warriors. Zone 2 training allows for a higher volume of training without over-fatiguing the body, leading to better performance and injury prevention. It is a key principle for maximizing progress and defying aging. The 80-20 ratio of low-intensity to high-intensity training is recommended for optimal results. Training in zone 2 helps maintain fitness, slow down the decline with aging, and fight off the natural decline. It is important to balance training intensity and volume to avoid injury and improve performance.



    Keywords


    training, 80-20 rule, low-intensity, high-intensity, polarizing training, maintenance, aging, heart rate zones, recovery, injury avoidance



    Takeaways


    Zone 2 training is important for aging athletes and weekend warriors to maximize progress and prevent injury.

    The 80-20 ratio of low-intensity to high-intensity training is recommended for optimal results.

    Training in zone 2 helps maintain fitness, slow down the decline with aging, and fight off the natural decline.

    Balancing training intensity and volume is crucial for avoiding injury and improving performance



    Titles


    Recovery and Injury Avoidance in Training

    Maintenance is a Lie: Training to Slow Down Aging



    Sound Bites


    "He does this by helping us improve our mindset and skills that are both needed in order to be that guy or that gal that we see riding on the trails well into our eighties, all without having the fear of injury or burnout."

    "The most important metric in training that matters is our total volume of load that we can put on the system. The more training we can get in, the more likely we are to make progress."

    "Slowing down on our slow actually allows us to go faster during our fast and we see better improvement in both endurance and in performance."



    Chapters


    00:00 Introduction

    01:23 Guest Introduction

    08:02 The Benefits of Zone 2 Training for Weekend Warriors

    09:00 The Importance of Maximizing Performance

    10:27 Training Frequency for Master Athletes

    11:54 The Paradigm Shift of Zone 2 Training

    13:51 The Potential Improvement with Zone 2 Training

    19:29 Understanding Heart Rate Zones

    28:46 Training in the Comfortable and Uncomfortable Zones

    29:15 Advice for Training with Zone 2

    30:04 Closing Remarks

    33 min
  • Matt Howard: MTB Changes Over Recent Years

    Summary


    In this episode, host Joel Zieve interviews Matt Howard, the owner of The Bike Shoppe (South Ogden Utah), about recent changes in mountain bikes. They discuss the improvements in bike geometry, positioning on the bike, suspension, tires, brakes, drivetrain, and overall bike technology. They also explore the impact of these changes on riding technical trails and the overall improvement in the mountain biking experience. Matt emphasizes the importance of passionate employees in the bike industry and invites listeners to visit his shop for more information and guidance.



    Keywords


    mountain bikes, geometry, rider position, suspension, tires, brakes, drivetrain, electronic shifting, trails, technical terrain



    Takeaways


    The geometry of mountain bikes has significantly changed, resulting in a better rider position and improved control.

    Advancements in suspension, tires, brakes (and more) have made mountain biking safer and more enjoyable.

    The evolution of drivetrain and components has enhanced the overall performance of mountain bikes.

    The improvements in bike technology have made mountain biking accessible to riders of all skill levels.

    Passionate employees in bike shops play a crucial role in providing guidance and support to riders.



    Titles


    Adapting to More Technical Trails and Features

    The Evolution of Mountain Bike Geometry and Rider Position



    Sound Bites


    "We now have real tires on mountain bikes."

    "The biggest change you would say that's happened is the geometry of the bikes."

    "Tires are bigger, easier. They're better for off-road conditions."



    Chapters


    00:00 Introduction and Changes in Bike Geometry

    05:17 Positioning on the Bike and Suspension

    07:38 Improvements in Tires and Brakes

    09:06 Advancements in Bike Technology

    10:34 Technical Trails and Bike Capability

    14:01 Changes in Drivetrain and Components

    19:12 The Bike Shoppe and Passionate Employees

    21:27 Conclusion and Call to Action

    23 min
  • Alan Wheelwright: Creating the Dirt we Age On

    Summary


    In this episode, host Joel Zieve interviews Alan Wheelwright, the executive director of Eden Valley Trails, about trail building in the Ogden Valley. They discuss the process of trail building, including factors such as user type, skill level, and soil conditions. They also explore the purpose of switchbacks and rock gardens in trail design. Alan shares his vision for the future of trails in the valley and discusses upcoming projects for Eden Valley Trails including exciting plans for 2024 at North Fork Park! The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to support trail building organizations and get involved in trail maintenance.



    Keywords


    trail building, Ogden Valley, target audience, soil conditions, switchbacks, rock gardens, directional trails, Eden Valley Trails




    Takeaways


    Trail building involves considering factors such as user type, skill level, and soil conditions.

    Switchbacks are used to alleviate steep grades and improve safety on downhill trails.

    Rock gardens are often used to armor trails and prevent erosion.

    Directional trails, like Spork, reduce conflicts between trail users and improve the riding experience.

    Eden Valley Trails aims to connect the Ogden Valley with a comprehensive trail network and improve existing trails.

    Eden Valley Trails has big plans for new trails and a skills course at North Fork Park.

    Listeners are encouraged to support trail building organizations and get involved in trail maintenance.



    Titles


    The Art of Trail Building: Understanding the Process

    Switchbacks and Rock Gardens: Designing for Safety and Fun



    Sound Bites


    "Trails just don't appear. They take a tremendous amount of work to maintain."

    "Switchbacks went in to alleviate the grade as you were dropping down."

    "Rock gardens are put in as a source of armor in the trail."



    Chapters


    00:00 Introduction and Overview

    00:50 Guest Introduction: Alan Wheelwright and Trail Building in Ogden Valley

    04:09 Understanding the Trail Building Process

    06:30 Factors in Trail Design: User Type, Skill Level, and Soil Conditions

    07:59 Purpose of Switchbacks and Rock Gardens in Trail Design

    12:11 The Success of Spork and the Future of Directional Trails

    16:00 Repairing and Maintaining Existing Trails

    25:45 Upcoming Projects for Eden Valley Trails (including North Fork Park specifics)

    31:13 Conclusion and Call to Action


    33 min
  • Dr. Cameron Garber: When to (and not to) Ride with Pain

    Summary


    In this conversation, Dr. Cameron Gerber discusses how to stay active and experience the joy of mountain biking as we age. He explains the concept of load versus capacity and how it affects our risk of injury. Dr. Gerber provides tools to help identify which pains can be ridden through and which require professional attention. Be sure to download his unique riding through pain guide at http://tinyurl.com/move-through-pain. He emphasizes the importance of building up load and capacity gradually to avoid injury. Additionally, he introduces the 80-20 rule for cycling, which involves spending 80% of the time in zone two and 20% in zones four and five to maximize performance and reduce the risk of injury.



    Keywords


    aging, load versus capacity, staying active, mountain biking, injuries, consistency, aches and pains, seeking professional help, 80-20 rule



    Takeaways


    Consistency in training is key to building up our capacity to handle the load and prevent injuries as we age.

    Aches and pains are normal, but it's important to differentiate between stable pain and growing, unpredictable pain.

    Seek professional help if the pain reaches a level where it significantly impacts performance or if it is changing and getting worse.

    The 80-20 rule for cycling, where 80% of the time is spent in zone two and 20% in zones four and five, can help improve fitness and reduce the risk of injury.

    Building up duration and intensity should come after establishing frequency in training to avoid overexertion and injury.



    Titles


    Load Versus Capacity: Understanding the Aging Process in Mountain Biking

    Dealing with Aches and Pains: When to Ride Through and When to Seek Help



    Sound Bites


    "All injuries are a load versus capacity problem."

    "Keep moving through the pain scale."

    "Seek help if the pain reaches a level four or higher."



    Chapters


    00:00 Load versus Capacity

    02:27 Dealing with Aches and Pains

    06:02 Load versus Capacity Equation

    13:14 Determining When to Seek Professional Help

    27:09 The 80-20 Rule for Cycling

    31 min
  • Randy Guymer: Long Winter Off of Dirt? How to Safely get back at It
    Summary
    In this episode, host Joel Zieve interviews Randy Guymer, an experienced mountain biker who has completed the Leadville 100 race 18 years in a row. They discuss tips for getting back into riding in the spring after a long break. Randy emphasizes the importance of taking time off in winter to rest mentally and physically. He also shares his routine for preparing the bike for spring and his stretching routine before and after rides. Randy provides insights into training for endurance races and knowing when to increase intensity and frequency. He concludes by encouraging listeners to enjoy mountain biking as they age.
    Takeaways
    Taking time off in winter is important for mental and physical rest.
    Ease into riding in the spring and avoid pushing too hard initially.
    Prepare the bike for spring by ensuring it is in good condition.
    Stretch before and after rides to prevent injuries.
    Train for endurance races by gradually increasing distance and incorporating interval training.
    Listen to your body and adjust your riding accordingly.
    Experiment with different fuel options to find what works best for you.
    Enjoy mountain biking as you age and adjust your intensity and risk-taking accordingly.
    Chapters
    00:00 Introduction
    02:49 Getting to Know Randy Guymer
    06:10 Taking Time Off in Winter
    09:42 Preparing the Bike for Spring
    12:05 Stretching Routine
    13:28 Training for Endurance Races
    19:43 Water and Fuel for Rides
    21:33 Listening to Your Body
    22:00 Enjoying Mountain Biking as You Age
    23:19 Conclusion
    24 min
  • Ted L. & Sandy S.: Chained Together

    Summary


    In this episode, Joel Zieve starts his first interview in the series of couples who ride together called "Chained Together: Finding Love & Flow on the Trail. He talks with Ted Lystig and Sandy Schreyer, who have been riding together for over 30 years. They discuss their background in mountain biking, their favorite places to ride, their proudest accomplishments, and why they continue to mountain bike at an older age. They also talk about mitigating risks and recovery, the changes in trails and bikes over the years, getting back into mountain biking after a break, and the benefits of riding in groups.



    Takeaways


    Mountain biking offers a sense of joy and adventure that keeps people engaged and feeling young.

    Choosing rides that match your skill level and comfort zone can help mitigate the risks of injury.

    Trails and bikes have evolved over the years, offering more options and challenges for riders.

    Getting back into mountain biking after a break requires patience, trust in your abilities, and riding with others who are slightly better than you.

    Riding in groups can be a fun and educational experience, allowing riders to learn from each other and explore new trails.



    Chapters


    00:00 Introduction and Background

    01:03 Chained Together: Finding Love and Flow on the Trail

    04:26 Proud Accomplishments on a Mountain Bike

    06:21 Why Mountain Bike at an Older Age

    07:19 Mitigating Risks and Recovery

    09:36 Changing Trails and Bikes

    16:26 Getting Back into Mountain Biking

    21:09 Conclusion


    22 min
  • Aric Manning; Where can I ride my eMTB in Utah?

    Summary

    In this episode, Joel Zieve interviews Aric Manning, the executive director of the Trails Foundation of Northern Utah, about e-bikes and trail rules. They discuss the different types of e-bikes and where they are allowed or not allowed on trails. They also explore the enforcement of e-bike rules and the potential changes in the future. The conversation emphasizes the importance of user behavior and being respectful on the trails.


    Takeaways

    Different types of e-bikes have specific rules and regulations regarding where they are allowed on trails.

    Enforcement of e-bike rules varies depending on the landowner and location.

    The future of e-bike rules may involve more consistency and education for riders.

    Being a courteous trail user and treating others with respect is essential for a positive trail experience.


    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction

    00:49 Background and Trail Use

    11:17 Enforcement of E-bike Rules

    16:12 Future Changes in E-bike Rules

    22 min

About Aging on Dirt

From the publisher's feed

Mountain bikes have improved dramatically recently, yet as we age, many of us are riding less. Why? Join Northern Utah’s local trail legend Joel Zieve as he interviews global experts and inspiring locals who refuse to let age slow them down and who are defying expectations one pedal stroke at a time. Each episode is packed with actionable tips and inspiring stories to help you keep the dirt flying, no matter your age.