Unfortunately, I'm still in the "wussy lungs, wussy legs, too" category. BUT I just keep at it anyway. It's SO fun to feel myself getting stronger.

On the other "hills/affirmations" thread on TE, someone suggested to "pedal in circles". That is what I'm always thinking/chugging as I spin up, and it works for me (thanks, whoever you were . Hills here are pretty much something I handle on the middle chain ring, considering the "top of hill exertion" a windsprint or interval, or whatever the term may be for kicking my butt for awhile, then riding within my target heart rate range for awhile again till the next hill. And the flight downhill is ALWAYS worth the effort up.

Newbiechick, you have my deepest respect and admiration as you handle southern Indiana hills on a hybrid! You are a magnificent woman!!!! You can sit farther back on the saddle AND sit more upright (you're right, for more lung capacity (upright) and for more hamstring/glut input (farther back), too). Girl, when you DO get that road bike in a year or so, you'll have wings. Keep up the great work! You're incredible!!!