Today, I'm joined by Ben Plenge from the Strength Factory and we're diving headfirst into the world of mountain bike fitness, tackling some of the most pressing questions from you, the listeners. From battling arm pump to fine-tuning your nutrition and hydration strategies, we leave no stone unturned. Join us as we explore topics ranging from race-day approaches to maintaining optimal shoulder health, and even how to tailor training for the younger riders out there. Plus, we'll be delving into the realm of supplements, helping you find the must-haves and avoid wasting money. Whether you're a seasoned rider or just starting out, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical tips to help you conquer the trails with confidence. So, it’s time to sit back, hit play and listen to this episode on mountain bike fitness with Ben Plenge. To save money on Strength Factory programmes, you can use the code DOWNTIME30 which is valid until 21st April 2024. The code will give you 30% off your first two months (after the free trial) of the Complete MTB Programme for trail riders and enduro racers. Or 30% off the Over 40s MTB Programme (lifetime access after purchase). You can sign up to Ben's mailing list, MTB Momentum, for your weekly dose of MTB training and fitness and subscribe to his YouTube channel here. The book that Ben mentioned for great advice on Women's fitness is ROAR by Dr Stacy Sims, which you'll find here. Podcast Stuff Supporting Partners 7mesh 7mesh's commitment to crafting top quality, innovative mountain bike clothing is second to none. They've just launched their Spring/Summer 2024 Mountain Bike collection with heaps of vibrant new colours and an update to their awesome trail pant, the Glidepath. Downtime listeners get 20% off until 1st May 2024, using the code downtimex7mesh20 at the checkout on 7mesh.com. Patreon I would love it if you were able to support the podcast via a regular Patreon donation. Donations start from as little as £3 per month. That’s less than £1 per episode and less than the price of a take away coffee. Every little counts and these donations will really help me keep the podcast going and hopefully take it to the next level. To help out, head here. Merch If you want to support the podcast and represent, then my webstore is the place to head. All products are 100% organic, shipped without plastics, and made with a supply chain that’s using renewable energy. We now also have local manufacture for most products in the US as well as the UK. So check it out now over at downtimepodcast.com/shop. Newsletter If you want a bit more Downtime in your life, then you can join my newsletter where I’ll provide you with a bit of behind the scenes info on the podcast, interesting bits and pieces from around the mountain bike world, some mini-reviews of products that I’ve been using and like, partner offers and more. You can do that over at downtimepodcast.com/newsletter. Follow Us Give us a follow on Instagram @downtimepodcast or Facebook @downtimepodcast to keep up to date and chat in the comments. For everything video, including riding videos, bike checks and more, subscribe over at youtube.com/downtimemountainbikepodcast. Are you enjoying the podcast? If so, then don’t forget to follow it. Episodes will get delivered to your device as soon as it’s available and it’s totally free. You’ll find all the links you need at downtimepodcast.com/follow. You can find us on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google and most of the podcast apps out there. Our back catalogue of amazing episodes is available at downtimepodcast.com/episodes Photo - Dave Price