Quote Originally Posted by Paradox View Post
Thanks Irulan...Yes, I understand the basic mountain biking skills, like moving around on the bike, leaning forward, getting off the back of the seat, etc.



I am fearful.. of falling.

My fitness level is not so good. After two years of riding it seems to have actually worsened instead of improved. I get out of breath quickly going uphill and have very little upper body strength. I am told that if I just keep riding it will get better.

I don't know about newbies or girls groups - I have only ridden with my boyfriend. As it is, I haven't even been taught how to put my bike on my roof rack. I am in the Denver, CO area.

My boyfriend, being the expert that he is (he also works in a shop) really thinks he is a good teacher. Everything he tells me is in agreement with what I read.

fear of falling
1. get some elbow and knee pads
2. lose the clipless for now
3. find a group/club/womens ride. it's good to get away from the bf every now and then.

Lunachix of Boulder are supposed to be great, I am sure with shop connections you can find some other rides. It just takes the relationship dymanic out of the equation. if hes' the "expert" ( dimestore analysis, I know) there's always that pressure to do good to please them.

You might also try going solo, just to enjoy the ride on an easy trail. And grrl, learn how to rack your own bike!!

I do have trouble getting off the back of the seat as I feel like I am hanging on by just the brake levers since I can't ride clipless.
I don't really understand that. You shouldn't be back behind the seat unless it's really steep. Many riders go too far back when they should be extended themselves up, standing up more. You should be able to feel comfortable when just standing on the pedals and holding the handlebars - how your feet are attached to the pedals in this position are irrelevant. Also, if you are too far back you lose control of the front of the bike.

Anyway it's all food for thought. I've been assistant coaching women's skills clinics around here lately and it's a lot of fun.