Quote Originally Posted by SadieKate View Post
Because I lift my feet off the pedals expecting the pedal to come with the foot. The crank then spins around and hits my shin. What, your BB brackets don't spin? I hate not being able to rotate a crank back ward when stopped at an intersection without sticking my foot under the pedal to lift it. Plus, I'll lift a bit overenthusiasticly and send the crank spinning into my shin -- expecting it to stop when my foot stops.
I see- it's from habit then, expecting the pedal to come up when you pull hard on it.
I suppose that would be an issue if you are mostly riding clipless and then take a plain platform ride on rare occasion.
With both cages and Powergrip straps, you have straps running over the top of your feet, your foot is "in" the strap and thus when you pull your foot up the pedal comes up along with it- you CAN pull up on the upstroke. Also, you CAN easily pull your pedal backwards and around into a good position while keeping your foot "in" at a stop light or intersection. It's really not that terribly different from the clipless concept, just a bit more play to work with if you have the cages or straps loosely adjusted. They can be adjusted pretty tight if you want. I keep my straps fairly snug. They also keep my foot from slipping off the pedal if it's wet out- pedals get quite slippery when wet. I love my straps.

Yes, people have been riding for generations without clipless but 100 years ago they didn't switch back and forth. It's just easier to stick with one way.
Some people switch bikes all the time with no problem- they keep a clipless bike for road riding and a plain platform pedal bikes for errands, and they use both bikes several times a week. Just saying.

As for dog training, a long leash or light rope teaches them faster. Treats and praise are great rewards, but you can't give a correction by waving a treat at them. You always want a dog to think a leash is attached no matter whether one is or not.
Indeed, one wouldn't give a correction by waving a treat! (-unless one was playing with less than a full deck) I think there are lots of various successful dog training methods out there. Probably using a long lead can help a great deal, but some things can be taught off leash too. I'm sure you are good at training dogs.