Fight the Burn: How to Take on a Steep Uphill Trail and Live to Tell the Tale

Every biker on the planet would agree that the best part to a ride is down hill. This is where it all comes together in a symphony of speed, adrenaline and skill. However, unless you live in a different physical plane than the rest of us, the truth of the matter is that to go down a hill also requires going up a hill.  The problem is that in truth, the bigger the down, the bigger the up. So the trick in climbing up any hill is to know how to do it to make sure not only that you get to the top, but that when you are there you have the energy and desire to go on.

While every rider will eventually discover what works best for them, the following are some suggestions on taking on those uber hills and still have some gas left in the tank.

• The primary key to taking on any hill is having the skill and endurance too do it. If you are trying to take on a steep incline and you have only started biking that day, you might want to reconsider. Even the best bikers in the world took some time getting in shape and learning correct biking techniques. Do the same favor for yourself and make sure you are ready before trying to take on Mount Everest.
• Momentum is another important part of climbing a hill. The more momentum you have, the easier the beginning of the incline will be. The easier the beginning the more gas you have for the middle and end of the hill. When you see the big hill coming, get your speed up and attack it with a good amount of speed and force. Also remember to gear down a bit before you start the climb. Gearing down after you have started is going to create some possible problems.
• Once you are on the hill keep the pace steady and remember to breathe well. Trying to go to fast or hyperventilating will have you running out of steam long before you reach the top. Maintain a consistent speed on the pedals and keep your breathing rhythmic. This will help you out a lot as breathing right helps gets oxygen to those tired muscles that are working to keep you in motion. 
• As you climb the hill, remember that the shortest distance between two points is a straight line. Do your best to keep from having to turn your wheel to often to avoid obstacles. This will both make the ride shorter and will preserve energy that you would loose from over taxing your arms.
• Finally, if for some reason you have to stop while climbing the hill try to find a leveled off place to do so. This will let you get some momentum as you begin your climb again. However if the momentum is just not enough to get you going again, be willing to walk your bike the rest of the way. After all, if you don’t have enough speed to keep the bike in motion the chances of you falling are pretty high. A fall can end your day quicker than anyone would like.

With patience, the right approach and a little practice, even the most daunting hills can be climbed. When you get to the top, take a quick breather (you earned it!) and then get ready for the best part…the downhill!

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