Nina, you saw me so you know I go slow on hills. The slowest I've ever gone and still went forward and stayed upright was 2.3 miles per hour. Yes, it is possible to almost be going backwards and still get up a hill. The key is to plan the hill. If you have low gears get into them and spin if you don't then get alittle speed and power up. I perfer both methods but I typically only power a shorter hill (like a freeway overpass). Come out and do my 3 Bump ride. That will make you stronger (if it doesn't kill you! )