How Jon Turned Dreaded Climbs Into Fun Challenges

“I used to dread climbs — now I look forward to them.” – Jon M.

For years, Jon loved riding but hated the climbs. Every group ride felt the same: his friends would ride ahead, while he ground his way up the hill, frustrated and out of breath. He started to lose confidence and enjoyment on the bike.

Jon knew something had to change. Riding more wasn’t solving the problem — in fact, it just made him more sore and discouraged. That’s when he decided to try strength training.

But not just any training. Jon chose my program because it was made for mountain bikers, not a generic gym plan. With a long injury histroy that includes a neck fusion, John needed something safe, smart, and specific to the demands of riding.

The difference? Immediate and enduring.

👉 John’s Results:

• Climbing Power: Those punchy climbs that used to stop him? Now he cleans them with confidence.

• Descending Control: His stronger upper body handles compressions, drops, and rough terrain with less fatigue.

• Endurance & Recovery: He can ride harder, bounce back quicker, and actually enjoy full days on the bike.

• Injury-Safe Progress: Even with his neck history, every progression was pain-free and tailored to his needs.

The impact has been huge — not just in performance, but in confidence.“I used to dread climbs. Now I look forward to them. That’s a game-changer.”

Why This Works

Jon’s story highlights a truth many riders miss: more riding isn’t always the answer. Off-bike training builds the power, control, and endurance that make every ride better. By training MTB-specific movement patterns — hinging, squatting, pulling, carrying — Jon built strength that directly translated to the trail.

Ready to Ride Stronger?

If you’ve been lagging on climbs or battling fatigue, John’s story shows what’s possible. The right training doesn’t just make you stronger — it makes riding fun again.

👉 Take the free MTB Fitness Assessment today and see how strength training could change your riding: