I ride with 3 water bottles - two = ice water & one has a mix of cytomax & a splash of whey protein powder. Before the hill, I'll take a couple of swigs from the cytomax bottle and I swear it makes hills easier.

Approach the hill at a fast pace so that momentum helps carry you up. As pedaling gets harder, shift to easier gears. NEVER wait until you're mashing the gear, it just uses up muscle energy.

If you must stand, make sure that you have an easier gear to switch to when you sit. You'll need it because seated pedaling is harder than pushing down with your body weight.

As somebody else said, push your butt to the back of your saddle and pedal using those strong gluteal muscles. If you're in clips, pull back with the alternate leg - pedaling in a circle.

Don't blast up the hills fercryinoutloud! Just take it easy, especially in the heat & humidity. Practice your technique because it will pay dividends. You are developing muscle memory.

Oh - and the kids on the BMX bikes? Know that someday they'll be middle aged men, struggling up a hill & some cute young thing will pass them like they're standing still.

Here is something I believe - don't get off & walk. If you have to go at 3mph, as long as you're upright, you're moving. I never want to teach my mind that it is OK to quit. That's just me & I'm sure it doesn't apply to everybody.