hill climbing technique

[goddess1222]

i have found a lot of short rolling hills around here and am curious about the proper technique.

do i slide my butt back further in the seat, gear down and stay seated?

do i come out of the seat and do a standing climb? and if so, how is my weight supposed to be distributed?

i am trying to put the least amount of pressure and strain on my knees as possible.


i have a feeling there are a few experts out there (missliz). picking everyone's brain is what i have become really good at.

[Veronica]

Not an expert by any measure but here's how I ride. If it's a short hill and I want to maintain a certain speed and gear I'll get out of the saddle if I need to. I try to push my butt back and continue with as much of a circle motion as possible (I'm on a tandem and circles are easier on my captain ;) ) I really love the feeling of power I get when I do this. But it seems to work best on rolling hills.

What I have read about hill climbing seems to say you use less energy if you stay in the saddle, so on long hills I tend to stay down and I still try to be further back on my saddle - that seems to engage the hamstrings more. I find the higher my cadence the better my knees feel - so if that means gearing down - we do.

Good luck and have fun!

Veronica

[Irulan]

You aren't on a mountain bike are you...? There are some additional techinques to use off trail but I think you are road riding. (?)
Irulan

[goddess1222]

yes, i am a road rider. i have to hottest bike, and it's better than any boyfriend. such great quality time together, he doesn't get in my face, and he is always there for me when i am ready to go.

[Dogmama]

You already have some good responses, but I wanted to add my favorite. In addition to pushing your butt back, concentrate on the movement coming from your hip, not your knees or ankles. You'll get more power, a smoother stroke and a faster ascent. Gluteal pushing is primary, but also try to pull back with your hamstrings & up with your hip flexors. That way your entire leg muscle group works easier.

[goddess1222]

thanks dogmama, i will try that. such good advice.

thank you again