Welcome mountain bikers, I’m excited to have Ben Plenge on the show today. He’s a rider, racer, but he’s also the founder and coach at The Strength Factory in the UK. We discuss how Ben found mountain biking and being a fitness coach as well as specific philosophies and techniques to become a stronger, fitter rider.

Episode Topics

0:00 - Intro
 2:34 - Getting into MTB and Joining the Army
 9:21 - Becoming a Fitness Coach and Founding the Strength Factory
 15:36 - Fitness for MTBers over 40 years old
 21:32 - Mental Health, Training and Empathy
 27:01 - Do You Need Weights or Tech Gadgets to Train Well?
 34:13 - Importance of Posture for MTB
 39:33 - Different Body Types and Training Based on Forward Riding Foot
 44:37 - Nasal Breathing for MTB
 50:26 - Being Successful with a Fitness Plan - Realistic Time Management
 59:28 - Benefits of Low-Intensity Aerobic Training
 1:10:48 - Does an E-Bike Make You Weak?
 1:14:36 - Racers Ben Admires
 1:16:56 - MTB Strength Programs

Strength Factory Promotions for Vital MTBers

• Use the code VITALMTB for 20% off the Complete MTB Programme
• Use the code VITALDH for 20% off the Complete DH Programme
• Use the code VITAL40 for 20% off the Over 40s MTB Programme

All discount codes expire on 31st May.

Instagram: @strengthfactory_coach
YouTube: @thestrengthfactory.

These great companies make The Inside Line possible
MAXXIS TIRES - JENSON USA - FOX

Breathing Information

• The Oxygen Advantage by Patrick McKeown
• Breath by James Nestor
• Follow @_brianmackenzie or his website: Shift Adapt