Getting restarted on a hill can either be simple or super frustrating. I have a few cues for you to follow that will make it much easier, watch this video and see if you can get restarted smoother next time you are on the trail!

Start from this position:

Both brakes engaged (one finger on each brake)

Looking ahead, where your bike will be going in the next 3-10 feet

Your dominant leg at 11:00 or 1:00 (positions of power) not at 12:00 or 6:00

Sitting on your seat (you don’t want to hop on your bike at the last second, because your feet end up at 12 & 6 when you hop).

Then PEDAL your bike with your foot that is on the pedal. Don’t SCOOT this bike like it’s a scooter!

Many things happen all at once: release brakes, push with your foot that is on the pedal (not from the foot that is on the ground), keep your eyes ahead, keep your rear end on your seat.

Sometimes I have my clients touch the leg that is supposed to work first. Tap that thigh and tell it to work!

I recommend lowering your seat so you can reach the ground easily with one of your feet. If you don’t have a dropper, find a small feature in the trail to set your foot on so that your rear end is ON THE SEAT!