Help breaking bad habits- I'm a mess

[north woods gal]

As others have mentioned, it's all a matter of practice. Don't pass up going clipless because it's something new and scary. So many advantages. I go clipless on all our bikes - road, mountain, commuter and even fat.

If your bike can handle it, ride on grass to practice your stops. Beats falling on pavement. When you fall, and we all did it a time or two when learning, be sure NOT to stick your arm out to break the fall. That's a good way to damage you hand, wrist or arm. Just tuck in and absorb the fall with your shoulder.

Don't let a fall rattle you. Just smile and keep going. I remember a time back when I was learning that still makes me smile. I was on a bike trail, approaching a stop sign. On the other side of the intersection, a cute guy was also coming to a stop. Okay, I got a little distracted and forget to unsnap in time. Yup, toppled right over on my side in front of him. He rushed to my aide, but when he could see I wasn't injured, we both started laughing. One of my fondest memories, now.