If you want to ride faster and with more confidence, remember that it is not merely a matter of getting fitter. You also have to think about preparation and good biking skills and technique. Keep in mind the following common biking mistakes most beginners make:
Poor Cornering Technique
To be able to corner smoothly, adjust your pace as you approach the turn; and don’t brake while cornering. See to it that you press down on the outside pedal and your inside pedal is up. Keep your eyes on where you are heading, at all times.
Sharp Braking on Descents
Applying light and gradual pressure on your brakes at the same time is more effective and safe when you are learning to ride than abruptly squeezing them. Braking too sharply while riding downhill can make you lose control. Try to sit up instead of using your brakes, as this increases wind resistance and can slow you down. Practice these biking skills on a hill you are familiar with, each time squeezing on the brake a little less.
Wrong Gears on Climbs
You should be in the right gear when approaching a climb. Do not leave it too late. If you have to change from a high gear to a low gear once you start to ascend, then you risk dropping your chain. Cycling uphill in a high gear means that your muscles recruit more fast-twitch muscles fibers which tire out quickly and take longer time to recover. If you shift to an easier gear and higher cadence, you save your energy and your fast-twitch muscles fibers for a later time.
Learn these important biking skills and you’ll have a more comfortable, safe, and enjoyable ride.
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