“Hi James

I have recently bought the 12 week program off you.

Is it possible that I can struggle as much as I seem to be with the single leg deadlift, even with only the 3 kg weight I have been using? I don’t seem to be able to get all the way down to touch the weight.I know in your video you say that this may happen with some people, but can I really be this weak riding and racing so much?!! It is obviously the case so what would the reason be?

Well I look forward to hearing from you, and can wait for the results!! Thanks”

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I just posted a video on this blog a few days back will explain the concept of the overpowered vs. underpowered athlete. You sound like you are overpowered in that you can move with strength and power, you just don’t do it with high quality movement. Your lack of hip mobility does not preclude you from being able to ride well but it does keep you from producing strength with your hips. Using your hips properly will produce more power and save your knees and/ or lower back.

Don’t wory about using any weight at first if you are struggeling with 3 kg. Five bodyweight reps done perfectly are better than five reps with any amount of weight done with subpar form. As a mountain bike rider how much you lift is arbitrary – how you lift it isn’t. Only perfect execution on a basic movement like the single leg deadlift will maximally transfer over to your riding.

Master your bodyweight and then look to add load. Let me know if you have any more questions…

Ride Strong,

James Wilson
MTB Strength Training Systems