The Strength Factory

Fantastic experience: I contacted Ben after getting past my mid 40’s and really starting to notice a drop in my strength while riding and also how quickly I ran out of steam at the occasional race I would enter. Being fortunate enough to live in Bristol I can join in with the face to face classes which really motivate me to first of all to actually train but then to work harder as I make noticeable gains each week Ben is a fantastic coach and is able to tailor sessions to your needs and possible injuries. I couldn’t recommend him enough!

Fantastic experience: 43 year old female rider. Finding and working with Ben's Over 40's MTB programme has been amazing and exactly what I needed to improve my strength and perform better on the bike. The programme is very well-structured, thorough instructions, good length of sessions, and really effective. It has been fun to try new excercises and I feel stronger on the bike. I particularly appreciate that it is a program tailored for mountainbikers and meeting the needs of us in our 40s. Looking forward to continuing with the program. A good investment in healthy MTB-life.

Fantastic experience: Having done a good bit of training, I had plateaued a bit in the gym. I raced a good bit in 2021 and 2022 but life got in the way in 2023 and I didn't commit to the season racing that year. I've only started to dabble again this year but hoping to be back racing fit for Aug/ Sept and catch a few races toward the end of the season. The workouts are really complementary to biking - they kind of even out hours on bike .. and I'm enduro so a good bit of upper body stuff for when I mess up! The excercises are challenging, and I specifically ask for 1 hour sessions so it has to be really precise, and focussed. Ben works with what I'm likely to get quickly in the gym so a good bit of calisthenics/ body weight along with DB movements as they're easy to come by. This means I get to do full workouts in an hour or so and I'm not waiting for someone to get off the hack squat machine while they do their 10th set. The 1 to 1 training is massively beneficial to me - I work 50 hours a week and get pulled in various directions outside of work, so between work and getting out on the bike I have little time to spare/ relax. Ben keeps an eye on what I've managed to get through on the bike and in the gym and might tell me to take a few days off training to recover, or maybe to go easy with a workout if it looks like I need recovery. This overview is invaluable... I'm often too busy keeping on keeping on that I sometimes go a week without a rest day or I don't give myself the recovery time from an injury or illness.

Fantastic experience: Clear and easy to follow instructions, and nothing more than a bike and access to a gym needed. Definitely the best upgrade I could have got to my riding for the money!

Fantastic experience: The Over 40s MTB program, and now the Over 40s Subscription, have given me vastly improved strength, confidence, and mental well-being. It has changed my outlook on life. I was in a slump and not working out other than weekly rides, and although not easy, the Over 40s MTB program safely introduced me to strength training and built me back up. I really like the Train Heroic platform, which provides video liks and history. Ben is also responsive and available to answer questions through group or private chats. Overall, I couldn't be happier with the program. Of all the MTB money I have spent, this is the best value and has made the biggest difference.

Fantastic experience: The over 40 program was amazing. I made a good progress without being tired.

Fantastic experience: After listening to a few Podcasts that Ben was on, I decided to book an assessment with a view to getting a training program from him, it was well worth the trip to Bristol where we discussed previous injuries and niggles, and he came up with a plan that was easy to follow, since then my niggles have become more manageable and my riding has improved massively, throughly recommended.

Fantastic experience: I used Ben’s programs in the past and enjoyed them. I’m currently just finishing the Over 40s MTB 20 week and transitioning over to the Over 40s monthly plan. I thought signing up to the over 40 plan was admitting I was getting old and if I’m honest my ego struggled with the decision. As always my ego couldn’t have been more wrong and needs to get back its box. After 5 blocks of consistent training on the over 40 plan, i just hit a lifetime PB (21watts per kilo) for my 5 second sprint power at the ripe old age 43 whilst managing to juggle kids, jobs and riding my bike. Couldn’t recommend this program enough to anybody who’s over 40 and wants to improve and prolong their riding.

Fantastic experience: I have been using the Complete Mtb program for close to 2 years now and feel much more strong and confident on my bike. The program varies each month which keeps things interesting. The how-to videos are easily accessible for those new/different movements, and Ben does a great job breaking down the details of each movement. Some weeks I do more or less of a particular day depending on my schedule or how I want to train (sometimes I just want to lift, or sprint). On the bike, I feel the effects of the Complete Mtb program obviously on the cardiovascular side of things, whether its short bursts of power or long pedals, a lot. I am feeling much more confident moving the bike around in rowdy sections, or high speeds and big compressions. I am feeling much more grounded and able to manage those bigger forces, which has given me much more confidence while riding which, in time, has pushed my abilities. Ben is clearly very passionate about Mtb and knows his stuff when it comes to training. I would 100% suggest this program to any Mtb'r and will continue on with the program indefinitely.

Fantastic experience: Top Tier training for mountain bikers. Ben proves a great training routine that provides excellent results. Will

Fantastic experience: I purchased the MTB Bodyweight program about 8 weeks ago and have been doing it with my teenage son. We've both enjoyed the way the program is laid out, the ability to progress in the exercises with some well laid out options for progressions, and we are definitely noticing results in terms of our overall strength. I'm also noticing those results in the ability to handle and control my MTB with greater relative ease when out riding. Additionally, the content Ben sends out by email is helpful and informative, plus he's quick to answer any questions. I don't think you would go wrong with choosing the MTB Bodyweight program, or likely any other program he offers.

Fantastic experience: Training @ Strength Factory with Ben has been a real game changer for me. Ben is great at juggling different levels within a small group and makes the sessions fun and funny (don’t worry, it’ll still hurt). My riding has improved going up & down and my old, creaky body feels generally stronger all-round. Now I have the 1st world problem that my skills need improving to match the extra speed! Wish I'd started doing this 10 years earlier.......

Fantastic experience: I've been following Ben's Complete Downhill program for a few years now. I really like his approach and his attention to detail. Outside of racing, I've noticed that the extra strength and stability of my body means I can manage higher speeds without feeling unstable on the bike, and when it comes to racing, I'm not so done in by the end of the track that I can no longer focus on what I'm supposed to be doing. In amongst some really long days at work during winter, it's not too difficult to fit most of the prescribed training in, it's definitely very achievable for anyone working full time. I'm looking forward to heading into 2024 ready for some long days of guiding (my day job), racing for fun at the French nationals. Cheers Ben!

Fantastic experience: As a 52yr old the training I've received from Ben is core to both my riding and everyday fitness. I've been training at SF for a few years now, and seen great gains in my ability to ride long descents and I have more in the tank on those long summer bike park days! Ben is passionate about training and riding, motivational and works you hard in a fun/positive environment.

Fantastic experience: I’d been using a gym for a while but started to lose focus, getting bored and wasn’t really progressing. I started with Ben at Strength Factory a year ago and by using dedicated, weekly sessions I’ve improved massively in terms of specific mtb strength and that has reflected in my riding. My strength and posture on the bike is so much better now - and look forward to sessions now!

Fantastic experience: This is a big big shout out to Ben for his great help and guidance to help me achieve this years goal, I managed to successfully and within the given time ride Chase the Sun, from dawn to dusk a total of 205 miles, 13hrs and 9 mins in the saddle. Without Ben’s easy to follow guidance and programme I really think I would have struggled. Thanks for your amazing help Ben.

Fantastic experience: I’ve been training with ben for a few years now and wouldnt be as fit and as strong as i am without the training he has provided me. Ben is very knowledgeable and enthusiastic as well as being very motivating whilst training. I would highly recommend

Fantastic experience: Immense. I’ve trained with Ben for a number of Years now and I’ve never walked away from a session wanting more. His focus on perfect movement paired with progressive and diverse programming really shows - I’m a much better rider for it.

Fantastic experience: It's almost a year since I committed to doing strength training twice a week first with Bens 20 week program for over 40s and then onto the subscription format and it's been one of the best decisions I have made for my overall health and fitness. I've seen benefits both on and off the bike, generally I'm stronger on the bike, climbing in particular is much easier probably because I'm also 9kg lighter, I can move the mtb around much easier and I feel much more in control and don't tire on longer descents . My job involves a lot of planning and organising so its great to have Bens programs to follow when I go to the gym, I know exactly what I am doing each session and there are clear videos for every exercise. The program changes every month which keeps it interesting and challenges the body in new ways. If I ever have any questions Ben respnds quickly but mostly I can just crack on as all the info is there and easy to follow Can't recommend Bens programs enough I'm 55 and feel fitter stronger and riding better than when i was 40.

Fantastic experience: Training with Ben ahead of racing Trans Madeira was the single most beneficial part of my preparation. The the combination of cardio and leg work meant I still has something in the tank after powering up the endless climbs and the upper body strength we worked on kept me on the bike more times than I could count on the thirty epic descents. I recommend both training with The Strength Factory and getting an entry to race Trans Madeira in equal measures!!

Fantastic experience: Ben is one of the best coaches out there his programmes are unique and designed around people that work full time but want to be fit and strong enough to shred on the weekend. I have been using his online programmes for 3 years now and feel a much stronger more balanced mountain biker because of it!

Fantastic experience: I can’t speak highly enough of Ben’s Coaching at The Strength Factory. I’ve been doing weekly small-group coached strength-training sessions, with like-minded over 40s Mountain Bikers, with Ben in Bristol for 14 months now. He’s a superb coach, runs challenging, interesting and varied sessions, focuses on great technique and progression, and I look forward to every single session! At a very busy time of my life, Ben’s gym mentoring, the cameraderie and boost to my life, health and mountain biking have been invaluable. First class.

Fantastic experience: I am doing the mountain bike programme and in just a few months I have noticed a huge improvement in strength and muscle development, as well as in my performance on the bike. I highly recommend it.

Fantastic experience: Been using Ben's bodyweight and kettlebell programmes for years and directly feel the benefits on and off the bike! Great value for money.

Fantastic experience: Love training with Ben - loads of useful info, easy to follow programmes and makes a huge difference to my riding.

Fantastic experience: Fantastic programme all round. Good value for money, professional set up and easy to use. Found I could keep with it far longer than previous exercise options.

Fantastic experience: Strength Factory has taken my riding to another level

Fantastic experience: I’ve been training with the Ben at the Strength Factory for several years now which is testament to the structured and varied programme that Ben offers. I could never stick to any previous gym routine or programme but since starting my strength training journey with Ben I’ve managed to keep to a consistent routine of weekly group gym sessions at Bens Strength Factory HQ ‘Bprofitness’ Back when I first started training with SF, having never really done any structured strength training, my race results improved massively which I put down to the gains I made in the first few months. Since then, life changes have meant I’ve stepped away from racing as much as I was, but I still ride regularly, so it’s important for me to keep on top of my strength and mobility, particularly as I have a fairly sedentary office based job. I think having a solid foundation has helped me on a few occasions where my skills on the bike have run out! Ben also helped me massively during the months proceeding and the many months of post ACL surgery recovery, building a strong knee ready for surgery, and gradually building back up to the point where my NHS physio was blown away by my progress compared to the other patients who had just stuck to the very basic physio. Proof that it’s not just about being a stronger, better rider, but also a stronger and better person.

Fantastic experience: Ben has helped coach me though injury, for multi-day trans events abroad, uk races and for general riding. Fitting riding in with family life and a busy international job is not easy but I find MTB Strength to be the foundation that allows me to enjoy and excel at all of the above. Cheers Ben, looking forward to planning 2024 biking events for us to work on

Fantastic experience: Over 40's Programme: excellent programme and Ben explains all exercises in detail to avoid injury. Lots of variety and really helps on bike. Highly recommended.

Fantastic experience: Can’t recommend Ben’s programs enough.. turning up to the gym with a complete workout that is explained in detail takes away the guessing of what to do at the gym, Whilst giving me the confidence to try new exercises and to push myself harder. In turn having more strength and agility help me with a more consistant and aware body position on the bike. Which leads to being more in control and able to adapt to the trail faster which leads to more fun!

Fantastic experience: Ben‘s Complete DH program has definitely improved my riding, in a short space of time. My max sprint power increased by more than 20% and I simply feel fitter and more powerful on the trail. The varying program by month also keeps it interesting and challenging.

Fantastic experience: After a couple of years training with a local PT, a change of circumstances meant I needed an alternative, I started on the complete MTB program at the beginning of the year, the program has a great balance, hitting all the key aspects, the app is easy to use and the videos of each exercise are easy to follow. Crucially the program is built around riders so you make gains but still get out with mates at the weekend! This program along with advice with Ben helped me get in the best possible shape for completing Trans Maderia this year and personal best results in this years racing plus I saved quite a bit of cash over my old training set up.

Fantastic experience: Cannot recommend highly enough! A spread of injuries throughout 2021 meant I spent a lot of time off the mtb and my body/fitness deteriorated somewhat. I didn't have much previous experience with the gym and training, so after hearing Ben on the Downtime podcast, I thought this guy knows what he's talking about, and I signed up to the Complete MTB Programme. Fast forward one year and I've lost weight, gained muscle, flexibility, and cardio, and the difference is very noticeable on the bike! Cheers Ben!

Fantastic experience: Ben brings a world of expertise, experience, up-to-date science-based knowledge and the latest research together with an encouraging, supportive manner to help you reach your goals. He’s a pleasure to train with, and will adapt sessions to suit the individual needs of clients. I always leave the sessions feeling great, with a big smile on my face, and have experienced tangible benefits. Training regularly with Ben has seen my strength and fitness improve brilliantly; I’m healthier, stronger and feel great.

Fantastic experience: Only been seeing Ben for a couple of months, but really impressed with what I've experienced so far. The program plans change each week and are geared towards mountain biking (as was my intention), but I'm seeing overall strength improvement too. He explains the routines well, pushes you to your limits and cracks enough terrible jokes to keep it fun. Recommended.

Fantastic experience: Training with Ben over the past two race seasons has helped me far exceed my MTB expectations. He's friendly, professional and love what he does - and the results speak for themselves. Highly recommend.

Fantastic experience: I started training with Ben 4 years ago after hearing good things from a friend. I considered myself fit but not strong but within a few months or so of weekly sessions, I noticed how much better I could control my posture on the bike. 4 years down the line and I feel far stronger on the bike and able to keep pushing on long rough descents, which was a struggle in the past. I'm a keen skier and during winter months, Ben adjusts his sessions to suit. Similar to the bike, I now find it easier to push forward into the skis through funky snow conditions. Finally, he's always enthusiastic and positive.

Fantastic experience: I started training with Ben over 2 years ago after being recommended by a friend, I was riding very frequently but needed to improve my overall strength and power for MTB Enduro racing. Through his well balanced training programs and one on one tuition, I have managed to greatly improve my riding and overall race results with the added benefit of feeling in the best shape possible. Carl Jennings - Whyte Bikes.

Fantastic experience: Ben is a great coach - always explains everything brilliantly and manages to make our sessions fun whilst maintaining his professionalism. Increasing my strength has made a huge improvement to my bike handling. I've been seeing Ben for two years now and have no intention of stopping.