Today I’m joined by The Strength Factory's Ben Plenge to find out how we can all go about being sharp and powerful this summer. Ben shares the secrets behind training for power and tells us how to achieve those crank bending sprints that we would all love to have. What’s even better is that you get to avoid feeling the burn!

We also chat about getting ready for an event, or a trip, to maximise the chances of it going well when it comes around. We also catch up on my EWS100 training, or lack of it. Ben provided some really sage advice on that, which I think will help a lot of people. Right, there’s tonnes of great info in this episode, so sit back, hit play and listen to this episode with Ben Plenge.

Discount Codes for Ben's programmes

Over 40s MTB Programme - DOWNTIMEPODCAST40 to get 20% off - expires 15th April.

Complete MTB Programme - DOWNTIMEPODCAST to get 20% off - expires 15th April

You can find everything over at thestrengthfactory.uk and tonnes of awesome free info on Ben's YouTube channel here and on Instagram @strengthfactory_coach.

Supporting Partners

Magura

MAGURA is not only providing riders like Loic Bruni, Finn Illes and Danny Hart with the incredible braking performance that they need to race at the top level, but they also make a setup that's still really powerful, but much more affordable. Their 4-piston MT5 brake offers an unbeatable performance to price ratio at just 100EURO. That's half the price of it's big brother the MT7, yet the MT5 still offers nearly the same stability and power.

Also with the MT5 you get to benefit from the MAGURA #customizeyourbrake program, which we talked about in a recent podcast episode. That means you can choose from three different lever shapes, four different rotors and four pad compounds to adjust the brake exactly to your needs and preferences when it comes to ergonomics, stability and power.

If you are looking for a brake upgrade for the season, then get yourself more control with MAGURA's MT brake range. Head to magura.com to find out more.

Canyon

I’ve been lucky enough to spend some time on a few of Canyon’s latest bikes and I’ve enjoyed every minute of it. Alongside their regular mountain bike range, Canyon have been working hard on what the future of eBikes looks like. I can’t say much more than that for today, but what I will say is that you should keep an eye on the Canyon website, canyon.com as they will soon be starting to show what they’ve been up to.

The Strength Factory

Don't forget to check out Ben's awesome programmes that will enable all of us to get better on our bikes by heading over to thestrengthfactory.uk. Also for discount codes valid until 15th April 2022, scroll up to the top of this page.

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.

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 plus postage.

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. So check it out now over at downtimepodcast.com/shop.

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 subscribe. It’s free and means you’ll get every episode delivered to your device...