Ok, that may seem like a stupid question...but where I live and ride, the terrain is predominantly flat. Like a pancake. I'm talkin' F-L-A-T. So, I went on a 25 mile ride yesterday (my first one EVER) and had to deal with gradual sloping hills for the first time ever. The upside - I never once had to get off and walk, inspite of burning legs and lungs ....but the downside, it took me WAY too long and used up too much energy to figure out how to handle the hills.

I guess my question is - what is the best technique for conquering hills, other than just doing it? How do you gals who live in hilly and/or mountainous areas do it? I'd like to ride in places other than my local area, but that will involve more hills. I have a ride coming up on April 1 and I'd like to be more prepared. Any advice?

Thanks!

Kate