3 Strength Myths MTB Riders Still Believe

When it comes to mountain biking, most riders think the way to get better is simple: just ride more. More laps, more climbs, more descents.

But here’s the truth: 🚫 riding more doesn’t always equal riding better. In fact, it can leave you plateaued, burned out, and more vulnerable to injury.

That’s because fitness on the bike is only part of the equation. Off-bike strength training is often the missing link between struggling on climbs and feeling confident everywhere on the trail.

Let’s bust 3 of the biggest myths that still hold riders back:

Myth #1 – “Just ride more to get fitter.”

Sounds logical, right? But piling on miles only reinforces the same patterns you already use. Riding alone doesn’t address weak links like hip stability, trunk control, or pulling power.

Strength training builds what the bike can’t: balance between muscle groups, resilience in your joints, and power you can actually use when the trail gets steep.

That’s why John, who used to lag behind on every climb, noticed the biggest difference off the bike:“I used to dread climbs — now I look forward to them.”

Myth #2 – “Strength training makes you bulky and slow.”

This one has been around forever. Many riders avoid the gym because they think lifting weights will make them heavy, stiff, and sluggish.

The reality? MTB-specific strength training makes you faster and more stable. You’re not training like a bodybuilder. You’re building horsepower, control, and durability.

Jenn found this out first-hand:“In six months, I gained 5kg of muscle. My climbing is faster, I’m less fatigued, and a crash that could have broken my femur last year left me with just a bruise.”

That’s not bulky. That’s strong, resilient, and ready for progression.

Myth #3 – “The gym takes too much time.”

Think strength training means hours in the gym, sacrificing riding time? Not here.

With the right programming, MTB-specific sessions take less than an hour — and directly translate to your riding. Each movement is chosen to make you stronger in the positions you actually use on the bike: hinging, squatting, carrying, pushing, and pulling.

John summed it up perfectly:“The workouts are structured and efficient. I never feel like I’m sacrificing my riding time, but I notice the results every time I get on the bike.”

The Bottom Line

More saddle time isn’t the only solution. If you want to:✅ Climb stronger✅ Descend with more control✅ Recover faster✅ Ride longer without fatigue✅ Stay injury-free

…then strength training is your missing link.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Don’t just guess where you’re at — know it.👉 Take the free MTB Fitness Assessment and see exactly how you stack up: [Insert Link or QR Code]

Already know you’re ready to commit? 🚀👉 Book a launch call and join either the Performance Program or the Online Breakfast Club — two proven coaching pathways for riders who want to get stronger, safer, and more confident on the bike.