MTB Fitness For Over 40s | 9 Tips
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 1 ส.ค. 2024
- As we get older our bodies change. It becomes harder to recover from exercise. It is harder to stay lean. It is harder to remain strong and athletic.
Too many mountain bike riders stop riding or enter a period of steady physical decline as they enter their 40s and 50s.
BUT...... It doesn't have to be like that!
Instead you can train smart, make time for health and fitness and reap the rewards out on the trails for years to come. In this episode I take you through 9 tips to help you stay on top of your game as an over 40 mountain biker.
The Over 40s MTB Programme. As used by hundreds of mid life riders across the world.
thestrengthfactory.uk/program...
Downtime Podcast - How to Shred Until You're 70
www.downtimepodcast.com/shred-...
Check out my range of ethically sourced Strength Factory T-shirts and hoodies!
thestrengthfactory.teemill.com/
Let me what you would like a video of next and I will get on the case.
Stay Strong
Ben
#mtb #mtbfitness #mountainbiking #over40training - กีฬา
Part 2 is now live with 8 more tips for all you mid-life mountain bikers who want to be strong, fit and fast!
th-cam.com/video/cq-Sc4RrJ7E/w-d-xo.html
At 43 I’ve found over the past few years that body weight exercises and mobility workouts are absolutely critical to enable me to continue to enjoy the hobbies that I’ve done most of my life (surfing and mountain biking). Without fail if I skip the workouts for more than a couple weeks I start feeling injured (back/shoulders/knees etc). When I keep up on the strength and mobility I tend to feel great. It makes a huge difference. I can no longer use my hobbies as my only ways to stay in shape.
Wise words mate. Keep up the good work. If you haven't already, then you should check my Over 40s MTB Programme out too. You'll love it.
thestrengthfactory.uk/over-40s-programme/
53 in a couple of weeks. Did 85km off road yesterday in just over 4 hrs. Yes. definitely stay flexible in your training to stay injury free. All or nothing mentality will lead to injury.
You know it mate.
Enjoyed the video. I liked and subscribed. I am here to tell everyone that you can still do it, even at my age 67. I had 4 major surgeries in 14 months and had lost all my strength and stamina but wasn't ready to give in just yet. I was able to get back to the gym and now feel great. I ride 90 miles per week on the trainer and swim 1/2 me per day after biking. Things are improving. I've lost weight, toned up, and improved my overall fitness. I even bought a new mountain bike: polygon Siskiu T8 and today, 3-3-21 I plan on hitting the big woods today for the first time. My advice to anyone getting into this sport is to get off the couch, and get moving. You can do it. P.S. I don't kid myself that I can fly like the younger guys/gals, but I enjoy every minute out there.
This is so cool to hear. I am stoked for you Don!
Hi Don, I just wanted to let you know about a new training programme that I launched today that I think you might like. It is called The Over 40's MTB Programme and it is 20 weeks of training that is kind to your body, designed to build your strength up, get rid of niggling injuries and generally make you a better human and rider. You can check it out at the link below, or hit reply if you have any questions. Thanks. Ben
thestrengthfactory.uk/programmes/the-over-40s-mtb-programme/
Me too, and I am 66 and racing cyclo x and xc mountainbiking, and endurance.Have also had major surgery. The biggest bad boy is losing strength, and muscle mass. Also feeling the cold . I'm never going to build back the muscle mass ,but the strength/mobility work i do (not super heavy weights) definitely helps prevent injury, and those nagging aches and pains I never had when i was 30. Fully intend racing into my 70s! Thankyou for not telling me I should spend hours lifting massive weights ,and I m no good because I have weak glutes!! He he!
@@lydiagould3090 This made me smile, Lydia! Keep being awesome and enjoy your riding and racing. Ben
Your a bloody legend! Such an inspiration
Fantastic. I'm 48 attempting to get back to my youthful feeling. The interval training, I've found, is key. I ride around the neighborhood every evening after work at a light to moderate pace. To finish, I sprint up and over and back again a long steep bridge right by my house. I've been steadily going to the smaller cogs on the cassette while maintaining my normal cadence. The results have been fantastic in terms of strength and endurance. When I'm on the trail, I've regained that explosive power needed to clear some of those tough technical uphill situations. Thanks!
That's mega to hear, James. Great work and consistency!
Hey James, I just wanted to let you know about a new training programme that I launched today that I think you might like. It is called The Over 40's MTB Programme and it is 20 weeks of training that is kind to your body, designed to build your strength up, get rid of niggling injuries and generally make you a better human and rider. You can check it out at the link below, or hit reply if you have any questions. Thanks. Ben
thestrengthfactory.uk/programmes/the-over-40s-mtb-programme/
57 now. This video obviously resonates with me.
Noticed last winter fatbiking that after riding an event with ‘fast’ friends (pace was pushing me the whole ride) I seemed to unlock the next level of fitness and speed by mistake. Was an eye opener.
Plan on starting a mobility and strength program now too. Already suffering a stiff lower back. Hip flexors need work. Subscribed so keep the content coming!
@@karlnurmi3530 nice one mate. Check this out too. Loads of handy stuff to help you out…. thestrengthfactory.uk/over-40s-free-guide/
Top Tip - get off "Social Media"
Ben, you are an inspiration. Later in life and I am doing more exercise than ever. Riding solo in the forest is very good for not only one's body but also one's head.
With riding, I know I can't ride for miles and miles everyday but instead, I do a few rides a week that are epics and in between, technical training / strength riding. It all helps and yes, cool down and loosen up at the end of any exercise as important as warming up and stretching as you get into your exercise.
Thanks Piers. Keep it up.
Social media is cancer and ruins many lifes.
@@dinoXAs2 I just wanted to let you know about a new training programme that I launched today that I think you might like. It is called The Over 40's MTB Programme and it is 20 weeks of training that is kind to your body, designed to build your strength up, get rid of niggling injuries and generally make you a better human and rider. You can check it out at the link below, or hit reply if you have any questions. Thanks. Ben
thestrengthfactory.uk/programmes/the-over-40s-mtb-programme/
As a 47 year old mountainbiker, bought the program online, than came to watch this. Made an appointment with my GP about my acute wrist pain right after finished watching it :) Thanks for the great tips, downloaded the podcast, will listen to it at first chance!
Great stuff - I hope it gets sorted ASAP! Enjoy your training. Ben
Hey mate, part 2 is now live.... th-cam.com/video/cq-Sc4RrJ7E/w-d-xo.html
Great video. I'm 46 and got back into being on the bike during the first lockdown. Taking my two sons out. Now I've just bought a Whyte Hardtail and loving it. I agree with everything you said. Looking forward to seeing more of your videos. Cheers
Awesome mate! Keep on riding....
Top quality as always, tips have really simplified a good base set up for me to follow as a 42 yr old mountain biker and hopefully in 2021 making a return to some Mx racing it’s just perfect for a starting plan to build on through the winter!
Stoked you found it useful mate. Let me know if you want any info about my online MX Programme too.
Great video. Going to take on some of those tips. Just coming up to 41 and feel I really need to look after my body to keep riding into the future.
Cheers Smiffy, glad it helped. Ben
Absolutely spot on, keep up the good work!
Thanks mate!
Got deep at the end there.
Great advice
Thanks for the advice. Appreciate all the encouragement. I'm 75 and still going strong.
75! Inspiring. Good for you mate.
Great point you make early about how busy everyone is regardless of age, something is got to give for the sake of health. We need to prioritize health and well being. Great video.
Great video I will definitely be watching this a few more times
Cheers mate.
Right on. I just got into MTB last year and turning 40 this year. This all applied throughout my 30's as well. Suddenly I just couldn't push through injuries anymore, and it was bewildering!
100%
Ben, thanks for an excellent thought-provoking video. You’re advice is bang on and really well considered. I’m 61 and have kept strong and fit by doing many of the things you say. Even so, it becomes easier to skip some of the things, especially if you have a lot of stress in your life, as many of increasingly do. As you say, that’s when it becomes even more important to keep doing these things. After 25 years of serious mountain biking I’ve just dropped some cash on a power meter as I am fully intent on being able to ride strongly into my late 60s!. This video is a great reminder for me of what I need to keep on doing. Cheers, Martin C.
You’re welcome mate. Happy to hear things going well for you with your health and fitness. 👍🏻
Very good advice 👍🏿
I have just received my first modern mtb, and I am a total newbie aged 50.
Just started strength training again at the gym trying to rebuild muscle after losing alot around my hips to arthritis/lack of mobility. Improving every day, fighting the pain and staying positive 🙏🏿
Stoked to hear about your journey mate. Good luck.
Awesome THANKS JUST WHAT I NEEDED
No worries - Make sure you hit subscribe and have a great weekend!
Thanks man. Just the message I needed at just the right time.
No worries. Enjoy your riding, dude.
GMBN should feature your content, so that more people would see it. Really good! Thank you!
I actually scheduled myself an appointment to watch it again in a month, to see if I could apply some of it.
@@petersilie2432 That's organised mate! Thanks for the comments......
Video quality is so clear
Great vid! Just discovered the channel after listening to the inside line podcast. Thinking of purchasing the over 40s plan now too👍🏻
Nice one Buster. Let me know if you have any questions and remember the discount code runs until the end of May. Ben
thank you! really appreciated!
No worries mate.
Really super video with great advise.. Thank you :)
No worries, Andy.
Thank you! Excellet tips. Greetings from Guatemala
Hey mate!
Really enjoyed this, training vs busy (some of which is pointless!) is always the issue, thanks
No worries mate. Glad you liked it. You might want to check this out too..... thestrengthfactory.uk/programmes/the-over-40s-mtb-programme/
I love the point about focusing on the bigger picture!
Cheers mate.
Great video. Very thoughtful and really takes a look at the bigger picture.
Cheers mate, glad you liked it. Ben
This video is pure gold! Well done fella! 👍
Nice one mate! Cheers Richard. You might want to check this out as well:
thestrengthfactory.uk/programmes/the-over-40s-mtb-programme/
Thank you for this!
No worries Mike. You might want to check out my newest online programme as well then....thestrengthfactory.uk/programmes/the-over-40s-mtb-programme/
Awesome tips. Keep up the great work 🚵♀️
Thanks Marcos
Thanks for posting this video. The fact that you make room for aspects beyond biking (like self-assessment, stress/balance/energy) etc. really resonated with me. Last autumn I struggledwith getting sour neck when riding and after watching this video I finally did something about it and went to see a Fysio which helped me. After doing some self-assessment I also found out that I want to safeguard the playful and curious side of things when riding because that has helped me to stay consistent over time with mountainbiking more then any other exercise Ivé been doing.
Hey Rickard, it is great to hear about your experience and how it nudged you to get your neck sorted. I hope you have a great summer of riding. You might also want to check this out....
thestrengthfactory.uk/programmes/the-over-40s-mtb-programme/
Hey mate, part 2 is now live.... th-cam.com/video/cq-Sc4RrJ7E/w-d-xo.html
Love the great helpful advice!! Thanks!!
No worries, glad it helped. You might also be interested in my latest podcast that came out last week that covers some of the same issues: www.downtimepodcast.com/winter-training/
WOW! First time watching your video and it’s 100% motivating!
I’m 57 with bad knees and I just got my 1st new Trek Marlin 7 ! Haven’t been on a bike in over 40 yrs! Gonna start off slow and go from there!!!
GREAT VIDEO AND
YOU’RE 100 % RIGHT! I’m in Orange County California and would love to find other old guys to ride with!
I am so happy to read this Anthony and I hope that you love the new bike. If you need any help being a bit fitter and stronger, and to help with those knees, then you might want to check this out.....
thestrengthfactory.uk/programmes/the-over-40s-mtb-programme/
Hey mate, part 2 is now live.... th-cam.com/video/cq-Sc4RrJ7E/w-d-xo.html
Hey Ben, great film, really liked the vibe and advice. As a 44 yr old rider I’m guilty of trying to ride just as hard as i did in my early 30’s. We all know where this leads 😕... The tips and sense coming through on balancing all life’s demands, and taking time to listen to my body, physically and emotionally are brilliant wise words. Many thanks 🙏
Glad it resonated with you, Dan.
Hey Dan, hope you are doing well mate. With it being January and all, I thought I would drop this here in case you want a programme to guide you through the first half of '23...... thestrengthfactory.uk/programmes/the-over-40s-mtb-programme/
This is really good. As I’ve come away from strength sports when you get and health issues, I’ve struggled to change my outlook on life and the gym.
I have to be stronger, bigger, it’s who I am.
But now, chasing rallycross driving, strength for fun, learning mtb as a way to challenge myself, the outlook is slowly changing.
Great video, and great outlook
Thanks mate. Have a great 2023 training year!
Also, you might want to check this out if you need some guidance and a clear plan........ thestrengthfactory.uk/programmes/the-over-40s-mtb-programme/
Great advice, appreciated🤓
Cheers Eric.
Very relatable video
Thanks buddy
Hi Ben, I'm a GP in the south west and 42yrs old. Great advice! New to your channel and video's but so far extremely informative and translatable. Brest wishes, James
Thanks James, that's great to hear.
Very helpful
Cheers mate
at 21 twice with tax and vat added (58) these videos are an inspiration to keep it going thanks Ben
haha, cheers mate.
Great content, dead on . 49 here, many hobbies over the years, current boxing bag work amd calasthentics for fitness just started mtb and now working on cardio. Subscribed.
Nice one Jeff. 🤘🏼
A video of advice for people who do (from your intro) skiing, surfing, mountain biking, snowboarding, motocross, powerlifting, and have just turned 40...
You're right actually. Same advice applies to all of those and probably rugby, football......... Cheers. Ben
Thank you a lot!!!!
Im 35 and with 2 young kids and a job with really a lot of work on a point where im just stressed out.
Yesterday i quit my job because this seemed to be the only right think to have more time for my family and maybe a bit time for digging and surfing the woods more. In my 20s i rode daily and at the moment im lucky getting on the bike once in a month. I wanted to see your vid to see if i could chance think in the little training im doing at the moment. But there is more to it in this stressed time and age and you just found the right words.
Its just: keep balanced and do what you fucking love (by the way: i always hated social media-its just waste of time)
Yes Marius! Bold move. Good luck for the future.
some great tips, I am getting close to 50, racing downhill and after adapting my work out to be more balanced has been huge, and have become stronger and faster than ever, just in August I got 27 PR's. I use Whoop and Polar to measure a few things which has been invaluable to know when to push and not ( I have a big corporate job which takes a lot of energy), the combo of balance and some tech and just general body feel has been very successful for me!
That's awesome to read Andrew. Plenty of miles left in the tank!
I just wanted to let you know about a new training programme that I launched today that I think you might like. It is called The Over 40's MTB Programme and it is 20 weeks of training that is kind to your body, designed to build your strength up, get rid of niggling injuries and generally make you a better human and rider. You can check it out at the link below, or hit reply if you have any questions. Thanks. Ben
thestrengthfactory.uk/programmes/the-over-40s-mtb-programme/
good advice. I'm 67, plenty of time on my hands... love riding... now I'll incorporate some of the ideas you suggest. I'm always concerned about recovering from a crash, which happen about once in 20 rides. If I'm in a bike park w/ jumps and features, then it's about 1 crash in 10 rides. Lots of bruises and big scrapes, but no broken bones. I got plenty of time for a fitness program, I'll try to organize one that I can commit to for a 6 months.
Great to hear from you mate and stoked that you are committing to your riding so much. Ben
Wise Words 🙏🏼
Thank you
Excellent discussion!! Great advice! 53 here and riding stronger than ever. Thanks
No worries - check out Part 2 here: th-cam.com/video/cq-Sc4RrJ7E/w-d-xo.html
Hey mate, I am doing a short series of free emails just for over 40s MTB riders like you. They are packed full of useful tips and info to help you be the best rider possible. Just drop your details in here if you want to be fitter and stronger on your bike. Thanks: strength-factory.aweb.page/p/b5278a68-0bf6-4896-8ac2-787b12e7a98e
Some good tips. I'm 63 now and still riding. Did change my normal MTB for an EMTB about a year ago and I must say: it changed my riding in a positive way.
Awesome - I love the EEEB! You need to be strong though. I actually have the world's first EMTB training programme available on my site, and if you wait until 0700 Monday, you might even find it discounted! Maybe.......
thestrengthfactory.uk/programmes/the-ultimate-emtb-programme/
Hey mate, I am doing a short series of free emails just for over 40s MTB riders like you. They are packed full of useful tips and info to help you be the best rider possible. Just drop your details in here if you want to be fitter and stronger on your bike. Thanks: strength-factory.aweb.page/p/b5278a68-0bf6-4896-8ac2-787b12e7a98e
I’m 1 year shy of 50 now, major operation made me reevaluate my life, lots of training and I’m now the fittest I’ve ever been. Feel so much better in life.
Good for you mate.
Hey mate, I am doing a short series of free emails just for over 40s MTB riders like you. They are packed full of useful tips and info to help you be the best rider possible. Just drop your details in here if you want to be fitter and stronger on your bike. Thanks: strength-factory.aweb.page/p/b5278a68-0bf6-4896-8ac2-787b12e7a98e
Age is a state of mind at 40; it's a state of physical in-your-face fact at 70, where I live right now. No longer ride for speed. I ride for exercise on partial or fully suspended bicycles, whether on road or trail, and I ride for stress relief. I had some of my best riding in my late 30s through mid-50s, on both road and mtb. I now ride on mtb, recumbents, and crank forward semi-recumbents. I love it, as being retired now, I have time to ride whenever the weather and my health allow. And yes, it is critical to avoid overuse stress on knees and the like. I make it a point never to go on challenging rides more than three days in a row. It is what it is. If you're still around when you hit 60 or 70, and are still riding, I'd like to hear your advice (except I'll probably be history by then).
Thanks Curt, it sounds like things are going well for you if you are still riding in your 70s. Ben
Good job mate. Just hurt my neck and for the first time its not fixing it self. Now i have to take it easy for a few months. No riding.
That sucks so much. Sorry mate. Get yourself to the physio!
Good video.
Thanks mate.
Great video - Slightly upset I've only just found your channel though. Great point about mental health. I'll be listening to the Podcast very soon. And to answer your question in the comments. I'm 47 and have been riding mtb's since the late 80's. For me and my arthiritic hip joints yoga is the answer. I've never been faster technically on a bike than I am now thanks to tutorials and the geat kit and bikes we have now, but the key to unlocking my best rding came from regaining more mobility from thre yoga. I ride MTB, road and commute by bike and have spells when it's hard to motivate myself to ride, but I can say hand on heart I've never finished a ride and regretted it. Cheers Gary.
This is great to read, Gary! I'm stoked you like the channel.
Great video, thanks. I've been trying to pedal something at least 5 times a week whether it's my mnt bike but mostly just the trainer. Definitely going to try and add some lower impact resistant training to the mix.
5 Days per week is good going mate. Well done.
You might want to check this out as well.... thestrengthfactory.uk/bodyweight-mtb-2/
I just wanted to let you know about a new training programme that I launched today that I think you might like. It is called The Over 40's MTB Programme and it is 20 weeks of training that is kind to your body, designed to build your strength up, get rid of niggling injuries and generally make you a better human and rider. You can check it out at the link below, or hit reply if you have any questions. Thanks. Ben
thestrengthfactory.uk/programmes/the-over-40s-mtb-programme/
Hey mate, part 2 is now live.... th-cam.com/video/cq-Sc4RrJ7E/w-d-xo.html
I'm a mountain biker. I'm 63. My ride partner is 74 and he's an animal! He's perfecting his jumping! I learned through mountain biking that if you want to make it between two trees that are close you better focus on where you want to go and definitely don't look at those trees! If you apply that focus and determination to being fit you can do what you love to do as long as you live.
I love this! Great analogy!
@@thestrengthfactory. Loved your video!
Ben, thank you! Not sure how TH-cam knew that I was wanting to train for an upcoming race later this summer. I’m just shy of 56 and am much fitter and healthier after losing 45lbs and riding my bike. I am at a point were I was wondering how do I take that next step. Your video was a nice introduction for me on how to think about riding, training and living in balance while working towards the goal of getting to my best potential.
The algorithm is all knowing!! Glad it helped mate. Best of luck!
Hey Mark, I just wanted to let you know about a new training programme that I launched today that I think you might like. It is called The Over 40's MTB Programme and it is 20 weeks of training that is kind to your body, designed to build your strength up, get rid of niggling injuries and generally make you a better human and rider. You can check it out at the link below, or hit reply if you have any questions. Thanks. Ben
thestrengthfactory.uk/programmes/the-over-40s-mtb-programme/
Hey mate, part 2 is now live.... th-cam.com/video/cq-Sc4RrJ7E/w-d-xo.html
Great video
Cheers mate.
Make sure you check out Over 40s part 2 and subscribe to the channel too. Thanks. Ben
Great content for us middle agers. Every year around this time I have to work up to riding shape. Grateful to ride, I subscribed.
Great video. As a 41 year old combat pyjama wearer, I now realise why they turf us out at 40 if you joined at 18, it's case your body is knackered and everything gets so much harder!
In just the last year, the amount of muscle mass I have lost without noticing is shocking, and I've had to make changes to how I do things. I have lots of niggles now, right knee, left achilles, left big toe, it is so frustrating to have to throttle back when all I want to do is ride!
Like you say though, finding the time is the hardest thing I find, as is keeping my mental health in check as my testosterone levels continue to drop, I have lost the umph to just do things that I used to have!
A great video, couldn't find that particular "how to shread till you're 70" Downtime podcast, however have subscribed to both your TH-cam channel and podcast!
Thanks for not making me feel like it isn't just me that's struggling, this getting old malarkey sucks!!!
Cheers John, appreciate your words. I can't imagine still being in the Army at 41. The mileage on your body must be huge. My lower back has never been the same since my recce commanders course in 2008 and the insane loads we carried.
Good luck and let me know if you ever need anything. Ben
@@thestrengthfactory. I joined at 16, body's done, knees, lower back and lower left leg all have to be watched when exercising, running or riding!
I am amazed though that a simple drop in testosterone (I think it's mainly that) makes such a big difference. Now trying to keep my diet and exercise better aligned to maintain, or slow the drop off.
I grew a small spare tyre last year, it just appeared and if anything, last year had a better exercise regime than 21 did!
Crazy stuff. Keep up the videos and good advice. I wanna be riding into my 80's.....
@@johnh3095 Good luck mate.
Hey mate, I am doing a short series of free emails just for over 40s MTB riders like you. They are packed full of useful tips and info to help you be the best rider possible. Just drop your details in here if you want to be fitter and stronger on your bike. Thanks: strength-factory.aweb.page/p/b5278a68-0bf6-4896-8ac2-787b12e7a98e
Currently 47, 10 year endurance athlete…..best advice from me is go slow when staring out listen to your body and be consistent.
Love it. I am always going on about consistency!
Good advice....I would like to add stretching after a ride and before bedtime....does wonders.I’m 56 btw
Cheers mate. It is all about finding what works for you and going with it.
Last moth I got to 70. I still build, why go to the gym when someone will pay me to get fit.
I still Mtbike, Tramp (you may know as hiking, but there is a difference). Chase my heffers around the paddock.
Sometimes I take pretty photos, fly my drone
Always looking on you tube to find better ways to ride. Sometimes I run for a change. I’ve a target of doing this for ever
Just one day at a time
So what is this about over forties thing
Cheers enjoy your day
A very inspiring video. I am 44 now and started mountainbiking again two years ago since I hanged up this great hobby in my early 20s to focus on other things. I would say my fitness is better than ever in my whole life. I go to gym, do some trail running and of course mountainbiking. What I never took into account is to find some good balance in training and make some regneration phases. I usually have a bad conscience if not doing some work-out within 2 or 3 days. Maybe I should take into account that from a long term point of view it might be much better to follow your tips. I never thought about this aspect that much so far. One of the most important things things you said for me is to find good balance between mental and physical fitness. I have very challengin job which means a lot of stress. When I am on the bike I always try to improve my skills as fast as I can, drive steeper downhills, do higher or drops because bikemates are all much better than I am. But they're all driving MTB for more than 20 year. They have much more experiece. I think I need slow down myself a little bit. The success will come automaticly when I will manage to be less stressed and more relaxed in my head. Thanks for your tips and this video. Great work!
Hey Carsten, thanks so much for the message and I am happy to hear that it is helping. Keep on riding, play the long game and look after the mental/stress side of life and work. Thanks. Ben
Hey Carsten, I just wanted to let you know about my new programme:
thestrengthfactory.uk/programmes/the-over-40s-mtb-programme/
Let me know if you have any questions. Thanks. Ben
I'm 49 and just bought my first MTB, Age is just a number ..
Enjoy it mate.
I 56, 190 cm bought a Slash 8 two years ago. Physio, endurance, etc. were very poor and so I just focused on flexibility, muscle building, etc. (still doing the epic series by Carolin) Bodypositioning (thanks for the video) feels loose and natural now! Overall, It is a rediscovered way of life! It's in one! It's just harder to get it back out and maintain it! Pure quality of life! Schedule and goals(feasible) are of course important
Nice work Jens
Hey mate, I am doing a short series of free emails just for over 40s MTB riders like you. They are packed full of useful tips and info to help you be the best rider possible. Just drop your details in here if you want to be fitter and stronger on your bike. Thanks: strength-factory.aweb.page/p/b5278a68-0bf6-4896-8ac2-787b12e7a98e
64 year old gym rat, Hooper age 5 to 50,Boxing,wrestling,judo,bjj 13 to present! Started MTB 2 years ago, rolling with mother nature keeps the senses sharp.MTB has kept my bone on bone hip from having surgery! Squats do help,yoga, tpt rollers. "Use it or lose it"
Great work dude!
Nice bike, Orbea Occam !
She's a beauty. You can read my review of that bike here if you like: www.wideopenmountainbike.com/2020/10/tested-bens-orbea-occam-m10-review
Supplement riding with heavy weight training. It's absolutely the golden ticket to feeling youthful as you age!
Golden Ticket! I love it.
The hardest part is not having enough time to ride a min 3x per week. I aim for two rides, and also do a fair amount of mobility exercises (yoga and others), some short HIIT workouts and - key for me - one "long" hill run, 45 min plus, each week. ALSO - I got a great e-bike (Turbo Levo SL), super light. I ride much more with it, and it's much more fun not being spent after getting to the top. And no compromise downhill on these light ones.
Agreed mate. Time is the biggest factor, but it sounds like you are making the most of yours and getting plenty done. I also have the Levo SL and love it! Have a top new year mate. Ben
@@thestrengthfactory. Thanks for the reply. Looking forward to more on your channel. Nice on the SL! Enjoy!
Hi Ben. Love the content and very comprehensive training tips.
I’m 69 and have kept pretty fit through my life with a lot of gym work and a bit of running and cycling. I’m supposed to be on retirement but still work part time for my old firm (44 years) in front of a screen but also 4 days a week doing gardening maintenance. I’ve just got my first proper mtb a hard tail and although in flat Essex, am hoping to take it to Peak District where I go at least once a year with my mate hill walking.
Am I running the risk of serious injury due to my age or do you think I can still get to a reasonable level of off-road biking safely.?
Hey Simon, great to hear that you are so active and that you are getting into MTB. The answer is that we all know it is dangerous, but we just need to manage those risks. My suggestions for a new rider are firstly to get skills coaching as that will give you the fundamentals of your riding position and make you less likely to crash. The second thing is to not get carried away and to ride within your capability, especially somewhere like the Peaks where a crash has high consequences. If in doubt, walk down sections, or slow down. No ego, no showing off, just ride at your level. I hope that makes sense!
Barely 30 but I feel like I'm much older, this might help
I hope so mate. Take action, and decide how you want to feel.
You might want to check this out as well. Have a bit of a re-set......
thestrengthfactory.uk/programmes/the-over-40s-mtb-programme/
Excellent Video 😎 I Ride my CF Warden To Work Daily in Vancouver Pavement to Work Blk Stuff Home Blk Stuff Weekends 😎 100km/week 20min Climbing I'm 60 in 3 months 😎
That's some decent mileage mate!
Great video Ben, when did you get so wise! How are you getting on with the Occam? I've got one on order 👍
Rad! I'm loving it. Full review coming soon on Wideopen. I'm stoked that you are riding again mate.
@@thestrengthfactory. I'll keep an eye out for it! I'm doing my best to get back into it riding, I've only got a maximum of a couple of hours a week and usually with a 9 year old in tow!
I'm 44 now and my fitness is pretty good I can climb hills well,but when I was in my early 30's I could ride down them with out fear,but now my confidence is blown and I get so angry with myself, I bottle so much now,I can't seem to over come the fear of falling off,I end up pissed off after a ride more than buzzing
Sorry to hear that mate, that doesn't sound fun. I have two suggestions...... 1. Be kinder to yourself. As soon as you get angry, you will become tight and tense and your riding will get even worse. Relax and breathe through sections and focus on the things you did well. 2. Get some skills coaching. Maybe there are some fundamental problems with your basic technique that is leading you to a lack of confidence on the trails. Fix that and your trail speed will naturally come.
Dude I get what you are saying. Never really been able to loosen up myself on the bike. Know the drills and skills. But just cann't let it flow. The fear of not been able to pay the morgage really pickles my head. Been like since I was 20.
I'm 52 and try to do 3 techie loops a week, about 40 miles in total
Sounds awesome mate! Good consistency.
Atta boy Peter!
I feel personally attacked by this relatable content! :-D
My pleasure!
Great channel. Could you provide any tips for regaining fitness after a layoff post accident? My fitness is back to zero after breaking my right humerus at the shoulder six weeks ago after slipping off the bike on a wet road surface... I wonder how pro riders regain their fitness after accidents/layoffs (what the process is and how long it takes, etc).
Hey mate thanks for the comment. Gutted to hear about your accident. That sounds painful.
The first thing I always say, is to focus on what you CAN do and not on what you CAN'T do. If you have a broken arm you can keep your legs strong with bodyweight training or by using a machine like the leg press. If your right arm is injured, you should still train the left. Can you sit on a turbo trainer?
There is no set timeline for coming back from an injury, but the fitter and stronger you were before the injury, the better off you will be. The process is the same as any period of building fitness....... Small steps, consistently. Start with short rides, then build them up over the weeks.
And don't forget to do your rehab on your arm/shoulder!
You may also want to check this out as a very safe and gradual way of re-building your fitness over the coming months. At first there may be a few things you can't do, due to your arm, but I am confident that it will help you get back to riding ASAP. Ben
thestrengthfactory.uk/programmes/the-over-40s-mtb-programme/
@@thestrengthfactory. Thanks Ben. I've just seen your video on returning from injuries, which was great. I broke my scaphoid two years ago and that was a rotten one as I was in cast for three months. This one has been harder to manage for some reason even though it's a shorter recovery time. I'm more into mountain biking now and have recently started taking beginners out on rides here, so that might explain why. It's tough when your passion is taken away from you so quickly... Daft accident this time I did in the city centre, hehe.
I really appreciated the videos anyway. I've taken a look and I'm considering the over 40s programme when I'm good to go in a few weeks' time. Thanks again!
Duncan
I like and i enjoy your video…
Awesome! Thanks mate.
Are you a mountain biker over 40? How do you look after yourself and keep on riding?
I take a bunch of pain killers before I go for a ride.
@@Wafe_NZ 😅
@BATTLECORE Sounds great to me bro. Good work!
@BATTLECORE Sounds epic mate. Character building for sure!
@BATTLECORE Riding loads can get expensive, especially in winter when stuff wears out fast!
I'm shocked at the amount of muscle mass I have lost in the last 8 years or so. I'm 66, have done a manual job all my life ,been super fit , running ,cycling ,hiking ,etc. I used to be very strong, but now I struggle to lift the same. I,ve got injured doing so ,and now lift much lighter and do more mobility and balance work.
Do you have tequnique coaching days for MTB (xc)riders? I did one with Go ride recently ,and it was really good. If so I am interested, as I do a lot of endurance racing , and also XCO distance
Hey Lydia, yours is a common story to be honest. I don't do skills coaching but I do face to face coaching in the gym in Bristol if you are ever down this way and keen to learn how to stay strong. The other option is The Over 40s MTB Programme which would probably be a good fit for maintaining strength and muscle in a low risk, low impact way.
thestrengthfactory.uk/programmes/the-over-40s-mtb-programme/
59 Thanks
Hello Ben. Nice video, very helpful. My problem seems to be that I put too much pressure on myself. I was a A level off road motorcycle racer for many years. I retired in 2014. This year is my first year of MTB racing. I've always been competitive, that's just who I've always been. I seem to put unrealistic immediate goals on myself. I expect to do better than I've been doing. Realistically, what should my goals be in my first year of racing? Before fall of 2021 I hadn't been on a bicycle in 20 years. I'm 54 years old now and my body won't let me train as intensely as I used to train. After a race, I have to take two days off to recover. Any ideas? Thanks Ben.
Hey Geoff. It seems like you know your competitive side well, and it can be hard to break those competitive habits that served you well as a motorbike racer. I can't give you a goal for racing, like 'finish in the top half,' for instance. I would suggest that you accept your current level of skill and fitness and use this year to focus on ENJOYING your riding and racing and learning as much as possible whilst at the races. The goal is to enjoy the races with no pressure on yourself (you may even do better this way!). You then review the race and whether you rode well or not. Your measure of success is how well you rode (relative to your ability) and how well you raced.
You might also want to have a look at your training now you are older. This programme is built for riders like you, especially as you probably have some mileage and old injuries from racing all those years.
thestrengthfactory.uk/programmes/the-over-40s-mtb-programme/
@@thestrengthfactory. Thanks Ben. Advice received and taken. Tonight's race is about having fun and learning new things. I plan to ride a solid first lap and saving some for the last lap. Much appreciated sir. 👍
@@Team81MTB Hope it goes well mate.
@@thestrengthfactory. Hello Ben. The race went great for me. Best finish I've had to date. Thank you so much for the advice. Can't wait until next weeks race. My confidence is at an all time high after tonight's race. Thanks again friend. 👍
@@Team81MTB Awesome!!!
The secret to feeling stronger and fitter at 39 (i'm almost 40) than you've ever been in your 20's, is to have never gone to a gym or done any exercise what so ever until about 5 years ago when i started climbing 3 times a week and then starting mountain biking which I started about 9 months ago. haha, simple! All i've had is gains, its great! lols... ;-)
Good work dude - it's never too late.
lol that was my tactic, saved myself whilest i was young and youthful, plenty of rest and lounging, no injuries or stress on my body
then started doing a bit at 40, just turned 43 and im the probably strongest and fittest i have ever been
@@orbytl2799 Since my comment above, i've now started visiting bike parks, like Bike Park Wales. I feel the injuries are defo on they way even with full face helmet, knee and elbow pads etc lol. So much fun though! :-D
The biggest thing is when you get hurt coming back takes twice as long!!!
Yes mate, I am off just now after a big slam, and probably won't ride for a week or two now.
Does it apply if I am 39?
Only if you are 39 and 3/4.
at 44 my easy weeks are usually not by choice.
Yeah, sometimes they get forced on me as well. I look at consistency with a long term view, rather than day to day, as life can get in the way.
Find an acupuncture doc!
Its over 40 - not over 60.
Over 60s are over 40 though!
HGH
Not tried it.
Very glad what YT recommend your's super useful videos! I must see this earlies. I conspect maximum what i understand. ❤❤❤. Like and subscribed🤷🏼♂️😼🚵 49 years old, and 4 years last training mtb XC. 😊
Cheers mate. Glad you like them.
Hey guys, thanks for all of the comments and feedback on here. I am stoked that this has hit the right note for you all. I wanted to let you all know that I have just launched a new online programme just for you.... "The Over 40's MTB Programme" You can check it out here:
thestrengthfactory.uk/programmes/the-over-40s-mtb-programme/
If you have any questions then please just hit reply. Thanks Ben