One of the most common questions riders ask is: “What should my strength training actually look like?” There’s no shortage of exercises online. Squats. Deadlifts. Core workouts. Mobility routines. But the real challenge for most riders isn’t finding exercises. It’s building a strength training program that improves mountain biking performance without ruining your rides. When strength training is done poorly, riders often notice: sore legs before rides reduced power on climbs fatigue on...

The Best Leg Exercises for Mountain Bikers (Quick List) If you only remember a few exercises for building stronger legs on the bike, start with these: Kickstand Romanian Deadlift – builds posterior chain strength and attack position stability Split Squats – develops single-leg strength and climbing power Step-Ups – reinforces the pedaling force pattern and hip stability Trap Bar Deadlift – builds full-body knee and hip power for accelerations Kettlebell Swings – trains explosive hip...

How Ryan Rebuilt Strength Without Sacrificing Performance Most mountain bikers don’t quit strength training because they dislike it. They quit because it interferes with their riding. That was Ryan’s experience. Before 2020, he lifted three times per week—heavy and consistently—but the training wasn’t designed for mountain biking or skiing. Eventually, soreness and fatigue from lifting began to slow him down on the bike. So he stopped. And that’s where many riders stay. The Problem With...