congratulation to the 70 year old who rode UK’s toughest sportive reveals how to get better with…read more about his Secret to…see…more

congratulation to the 70 year old who rode UK’s toughest sportive reveals how to get better with…read more about his Secret to…see…more

In a stunning display of endurance, determination, and pure grit, 70-year-old Alan Whitmore from Devon has conquered one of the UK’s most grueling cycling challenges: the Fred Whitton Challenge. This demanding 112-mile sportive is infamous for its punishing climbs, including the legendary Hardknott Pass with gradients of up to 30%.

Alan, however, crossed the finish line with a smile on his face and a spring in his step. His remarkable feat not only stunned younger riders but also left everyone wondering: how does he do it? And more importantly, how has he managed to improve with age, defying expectations and limits most of us thought were unbreakable?

Alan wasn’t always an avid cyclist. In fact, he picked up the sport in his mid-50s after a routine health check highlighted some concerns about his fitness levels. “I remember the doctor saying I needed to get moving or face potential health risks. That was the wake-up call I needed,” he recalls.

From those first shaky rides on country lanes to taking on the Fred Whitton Challenge, Alan has transformed his life through sheer perseverance. “I started with 5-mile rides. They were tough at first, but little by little, I built up,” he said. “Consistency is the key. You don’t need to do big things, just small steps every day.

So, what’s his secret? Alan swears by a unique combination of discipline, modern science, and a positive mindset:

1. Strength Training & Flexibility: Alan incorporates strength training and yoga into his weekly routine. “Cycling is great, but building core strength and flexibility has kept me injury-free,” he says.
2. Nutrition Tailored to Recovery: “I’ve become a big fan of plant-based meals,” Alan reveals. “I’m not fully vegetarian, but eating clean, whole foods and focusing on recovery has made a huge difference.”
3. Technology Meets Tradition: Using smart gadgets like heart rate monitors and cycling apps, Alan tracks his progress while staying rooted in the joy of the ride. “I keep an eye on data but never let it take the fun out of cycling.”
4. The Mental Game: “Age is just a number,” Alan insists. “I remind myself daily that the mind controls the body. If I believe I can do something, I’m halfway there.”
5. Never Stop Learning: Alan devours books, podcasts, and blogs on fitness. “Even at 70, there’s so much to learn. I tweak my routines every year to improve efficiency and avoid stagnation.”

Alan’s story has not only inspired his fellow septuagenarians but also younger riders struggling to keep up. “He passed me on a steep climb and offered words of encouragement. That stayed with me,” said 32-year-old cyclist Josh Parker, who also took part in the sportive.

For Alan, it’s not just about personal achievement. He’s passionate about motivating others to embrace fitness, regardless of age. “It’s never too late to start,” he says. “Your body is capable of incredible things if you treat it well.”

Alan isn’t slowing down anytime soon. He’s already eyeing his next challenge: a 1,000-mile charity ride across the UK to raise funds for Alzheimer’s research. “It’s a cause close to my heart, and I’m excited to push myself further,” he shares.

To learn more about Alan’s journey, his training regime, and his tips for staying active at any age, click here to read the full interview.

Alan’s story is a powerful reminder that age is no barrier to greatness. His triumph over the Fred Whitton Challenge shows that with the right mindset and habits, we can all strive to get better as we grow older.