"I Can't Climb"

The words "I can't climb" are often uttered by those cyclists who start going backwards when the road goes upwards. Nonsense. Everyone can climb. Obviously, some are far better than others, but if you have the will, you too can kill that hill.

What makes a good climber? Well, usually, the really good ones are very lightly built - in the 9 to 10 stone region. But, they pack alot of power! Lightweight, plus power equals fast hill climbing. So, the first question for those wishing to improve their climbing ability is, "Have I eaten all the pies?". If you're packing too much lard, lose it! Now, I'm not suggesting you try to make yourself as stick thin as some of the climbing specialists of the professional peloton (afterall, it's nice to be able to open a stiff lid on a jar of marmalade), but try eating a few less pasties and say "no" to that fifth pint of lager.

Next, and perhaps most importantly, in order to become a better climber on the bike you.....wait for it.....have to climb more! In my experience, those cyclists who say they can't climb have often simply tried, found it hard and given up. "Oh, I'm best on the flat", they sometimes say, which makes me chuckle. Yes, it's tough and it can hurt, but you will get better and stronger with practice and hard work.

"You must master the hill, Daniel San", as Mr Miyagi might say. If you find riding hills hurts, make it as easy as possible. Start tackling them in a very easy gear. Go slowly, take your time. Don't let the hill hurt you. As you become more confident and stronger, start riding up it in a slightly harder gear. Ride within your limits. If you have to and can afford it, invest in smaller gears. I recommend a compact chainset for tackling hilly roads, particularly very steep hills, by which I mean 1:6 or steeper. I ride a 34, 26 bottom gear, which enables me to handle the steepest hills with confidence. Less powerful riders may be better suited with a triple chain ring. You often see cyclists trying to climb hills with gears which they do not have the power to turn effectively. Do youself, particularly your knees, a favour and use gears in keeping with your ability.

"Rise with power". When you get out of the saddle on a climb to apply more power, make sure your extra effort doesn't go to waste - shift into a bigger gear. If staying seated, which you should try to do for most of the time, try siting back on the saddle to really engage the upper part of your quadriceps. Stay focused, as relaxed as possible and concentrate on maintaining a good cadence.

In the event of you really starting to suffer on a climb, bring to mind that well-known US Marine recruitment propaganda, "Pain is weakness leaving the body" - the laughter it induces will make you feel better!

Heed these words and the hill master you will. Listen not and slump to the side of the road in a ditch you must.

Master Yoda (standing in for the Pale Rider I am)