new strategy & mantra for the hills

[caligurl]

I also always challenge myself to NEVER stand up.

why not stand?????????

[SpinSis]

I think I need to learn to stand more (I'll try the dancing idea...) I just seem to spin my way up...and will confess to using the granny ring still. But my fitness has improved so that I am actually shifting into harder gears as I approach the top, which helps me pull over the top easier and faster....

When I started, I found that my lungs did an almost reflexive big gulp at some point up the hill. But I find that if I sit back in the saddle, loosen my grip and relax my arms and shoulders, everything else follows suit, including my lung capacity and rate of breathing. I also really love hills, so I just imagine that I am Lance and Jan is on my tail... But I do like the mantra that was shared earlier along the lines of "I like hills and chocolate is good" I may try that as needed!

[Melodylynn]

I'm glad that I am not the only one that has the tired lung, strong legs problem. My weekday rides on Tues and Thurs have about 5 miles of good hills. They start small and come one after another. By the time I hit the big one I am completely out of breath. I will have to try the higher gear and sing a nice slow song too. The last time I rode that way was the first time I rode my new bike and I was a little bit intimidated. I still don't have the gears down yet! I know, time and patients!!! Just keep reminding my self that Rome was not built in a day!!!

Melody