Flipping Hills

[kaybee]

Hey Shaula! Yes, it will get better. Not only will you get stronger, you will learn how and when to shift (there really is a method to the madness!). Hubby and I live in northwest Georgia, where it's impossible to find a flat route, and are noticing that, after 2 months of riding, the hills are getting much easier. You might also want to consider going with clipless pedals, if you haven't already. It makes a world of difference.

[latelatebloomer]

Oh yes, it does get better, and what a feeling!! I live in easter Pa, so there's nothing but rolling hills in my ride. Even if it LOOKS flat, it never is! This spring, my heart used to just about come out of my chest at any incline, and if anyone could have heard my breathing, they would have dialed 911. So I walked when I had to. But I didn't give up, and my lungs and legs are so much stronger. I often switch between standing and sitting - standing seems to let my heart catch up a for a few beats.

[Madizell]

I'm so glad you posted this question. I'm new to the website and relatively new to biking. I live in Central Arizona and it's nothing but mountains here. I started riding to work a few years ago then stopped because I changed jobs and the commute was much longer and the I started again and stopped because of "lack of daylight" and . . . . well -- anyway -- I started up again about 3-4 months ago. Anyway --- the hills just don't seem to be getting any easier, especially at the end of my work day. The commute home, while it has its ups and downs, is essentially a 10 mile climb and always into a head wind. I make it, but by the end of the week, I'm destroyed!! Any suggestions on building my strength/endurance/speed? Thanks -

[CorsairMac]

first - welcome to the board! I know I was out for a few weeks so if you've already done this sry for the re-peat:

there's a thread under the open titled "getting to know you" - gives you a chance to get to know us better and tell us more about you!

as for your commute home - I also commute up a mountain every night 6 miles, some days in 30+ mph headwinds. My first thought when you talked about the struggle was: do you eat anything before you head home? I found I was wearing myself out during my commute home until I started eating just a little something about 20 mins before I left work. Also, do you drink during the climb?? even if you aren't hot - I make myself drink about every 10 minutes during that climb just to make sure I stay hydrated.