(Please no one take offense to this...) and realize that you are getting a bit of a "jump" by riding with a guy, who is stronger simply because he is a guy. When I first started riding, I was riding with guys only and couldn't figure out what was wrong with me...until I rode with a mixed group and found myself able to keep up with the group. The guys I rode (and still ride) with push themselves to make sure I push myself, which I really appreciate. It's made me a stronger rider. I ride with some strong women riders as well, and my one most frequent woman buddy rider agrees that when both of us ride with the stronger men, we ride harder. SO you actually may ALREADY be pretty strong, you just don't realize it!

I know what you mean about strength and I am of the belief that yes, it makes a big difference. I don't have access to real weights so I concentrate on a few things I can do at home in a short period of time that have most definitely made a difference: push ups (real ones, not the ones with your knees on the ground) and "planks" (holding in the "down" pushup position) and wall sits. I try to do 5 sets of 20 pushups and 4-5 wall sits at 2:30 each at least 3 times a week. I used to do a lot of Yoga too but I don't think I'll be able to get back into that until my dog is 4 or 5!

I've really slacked off lately and have noticed a difference, so that alone tells me that I benefit from even that small amount of strength training.

And finally, hills. Since I live in hill country I can't shy away from them. I have to love them. I often joke that I have NO IDEA on how to ride the flats, but I think it's true. Think of hills as a way to make you a stronger rider. Plus, you get to rest after the top...you don't get to do that on the flats! Learn to love them and expect/anticipate the benefits they bring--so much of it is mental and not physical.

y