Is there a correct way to fall?

[blueskies]

For those who are new to being clipped in, I think a key is to practice clipping in & unclipping, a lot. When I first got mine, I would go to a quiet bike path, and ride along, clipping and unclipping repeatedly. Ten times on the right, ten times on the left. Practice the skills that you need to be safe, so that unclipping becomes part of your muscle memory.

If you are going to fall, here's advice on how, from mountain bike legend Neal Overend, who rode for his whole career without a broken bone, quoted from the book Bike for Life:

- Balancing act: Practicing track stands and general balancing will help you avoid slow-speed falls. "It'll give you that extra second to clip-out," says Ned. And avoid toppling over on your hip.

- Slip out fast: Set up your pedals to get out of them easily in a crash. Clean 'em out, keep 'em oiled, and you can pull your foot out quickly and avoid a knee injury. (New riders might not realize that the ease of release is adjustable, just like ski bindings.)

- Soft landing: Minimize impact when you hit the ground. Fight the urge to stick an arm out; that'll risk a broken collarbone. Instead, keep your body in and try to let the handlebar and pedal hit the ground first. Before you hit, tuck your arm in and roll, letting your whole body absorbe the blow.

I would also add that it's good for new riders to learn & practice good form for a quick stop. You want to avoid the crash, when that car turns in front of you...

Blueskies