If you're like me, you probably dread seeing those rising roads off in the distance, knowing you gotta reach down inside and pull out a little something extra to tackle the climb. Now, although I am not a professional biker by any means, I have found a few techniques that have really helped me crest those shorter, rolling hills.
First, I think it is vitally important to have toe clips or cages on your pedals. This allows you to have power on the upstroke as well as the down. You're legs are working in all directions now, so your overall performance will improve.
Secondly, pay attention to the muscles you are using. Typically, you are pushing down on those pedals with your quads during the long straight-aways. So, why not give those muscles a rest on the climbs and use your hamstrings instead? Since you now own toe clips (hint, hint), you can switch power to your upstroke and literally pull yourself up the hill with your hamstrings. Then, as you crest the hill, your quads are a bit fresher to continue on the straight-aways again.
Stay tuned for more tips...
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