Let’s face it, we all love riding, but life can easily get in the way, so finding time to ride and especially finding time to train can be tricky. Also the stresses of life can leave us with limited reserves to get training and riding done. This can leave our mountain bike fitness lacking. As a business owner and father of two, Ben Plenge from The Strength Factory totally gets this and wants to help us everyday riders find a way to improve their riding in a sensible safe and achievable manner, while also improving themselves as humans as the same time.

In this episode, we talk about the concept of a stress bucket and how we can control how full it gets. Find out how much easier it is to maintain than it is to gain, and also how consistency really is key. Sit back, hit play and listen to this episode with The Strength Factory's Ben Plenge.

Ben has just launched his new 'Over 40's MTB Programme' which is perfect for the everyday rider. As a Downtime listener, you can save 25% off the price until 9th November by using the code 'downtime40' at the checkout over on thestrengthfactory.uk. What's more, from all of you who sign up using the code, one of you will be selected at random to win two 1 hour coaching sessions with Ben to help you meet your goals.

You can find out more about Ben and The Strength Factory either by heading to thestrengthfactory.uk or checking them out on Instagram @strengthfactory_coach.

Supporting Partners

Nukeproof

Nukeproof have just launched their Autumn/Winter clothing range. There are merino tops and socks, a waterproof jacket, a soft shell jacket and some nice warm gloves. I've been using all of it as the seasons change here in the UK and I've been really impressed.

For a chance to win one of their awesome lightweight, waterproof, breathable Blackline jackets, plus some Sam Hill signature grips and pedals, all you need to do is to answer an easy question over at downtimepodcast.com/nukeproof before 9th December. One lucky winner will be chosen at random by the Nukeproof team.

We Are One Composites

This episode is supported by We Are One Composites. We Are One have been big supporters of what I’m doing from the start, and for that I’m really grateful. They also make amazing carbon fibre wheels which are hand made in Canada. I’m running their Faction 29er rims on my bike, and they look and feel amazing. They’ve managed to find the sweet spot between stiffness and compliance, making a wheel that tracks, but doesn’t feel harsh to ride.

They’ve got a whole line up of products, so there is always something to suit your needs. Head to weareonecomposites.com and check out what they have to offer. If you’re tempted, then as a Downtime listener, they are offering you 15% off rim-only products during August. All you need to do is enter the code ‘wesupply2021‘ at the checkout.

The Strength Factory

Checkout their new new 'Over 40's MTB Programme' which is perfect for the everyday rider. As a Downtime listener, you can save 25% off the price until 9th November by using the code 'downtime40' at the checkout over on thestrengthfactory.uk. What's more, from all of you who sign up using the code, one of you will be selected at random to win two 1 hour coaching sessions with Ben to help you meet your goals.

Podcast Stuff

Downtime EP

Downtime EP issue 1 is now available at downtimepodcast.com/ep. EP takes inspiration from the guests and topics of the podcast, expands on them, and takes them into a stunning print-only format. EP is the perfect companion for some quiet time away from the distractions of modern life. Beautiful to have and hold, and a timeless piece of mountain bike history.

A Downtime EP subscription is the perfect Christmas gift for your partner who rides, your riding buddies, or a nice little treat for yourself. Just head over to downtimepodcast.com/ep and you’ll be able to save yourself £5 off of the cover price with an annual subscription for just £20 plu...