What does it take to stay at the top of your sport for over four decades—and still be competitive at 70?
In this episode, we sit down with Ned Overend, the first-ever UCI Mountain Bike World Champion and six-time national champion, who’s still toeing the line with athletes half his age. But this isn’t just a story about biking—it’s about reinvention, smart training, and building a body and mindset that lasts.
Ned takes us back to the early, chaotic days of mountain biking, shares what it was like to battle doping at the height of his career, and explains why he pivoted to triathlon—and found even more success. We dive into his uncoached training philosophy, his morning olive oil ritual, how he uses Strava (yes, he pays for it), and what recovery really means when you're trying to defy the typical aging curve.
If you're an everyday athlete, a recreational rider, or just someone who’s tired of the “slow decline” narrative—this episode is a masterclass in staying curious, adapting with age, and competing on your own terms.
🔑 Key Takeaways:
- Why Ned left mountain biking at his peak to compete in XTERRA triathlons
- How he trained without a coach and still dominated the world’s best
- The difference between training hard and training smart—especially after 50
- Why most people underestimate the importance of recovery, hydration, and fueling
- Simple mobility and balance drills that improve performance and prevent injury
- How growing up in Ethiopia, Iran, and Taiwan shaped his mindset and adaptability
- Why aging doesn’t mean decline—and the mindset shift to prove it
🧰 Resources Mentioned:
- Joe Friel’s Fast After 50
- Strava (yes, Ned pays for it)
- XTERRA World Championships in Maui
- Specialized Bicycles
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