“Finish the hill” is a term coaches use to remind riders that a climb doesn’t end till gravity starts pulling you down the other side.
Many riders, however, start easing up when the top comes into view. It’s understandable. You’ve been working hard. Your legs are burning, your lungs are heaving — but now you risk losing lots of time.
Backing off when you see the top will make the final meters last much longer. Instead, beginning with the next hill you ride, train yourself to ignore the physical and mental temptations. Don’t let up during those final few strokes. Keep your pace (or even accelerate) all the way over the top.
Finish the hill this way and you’ll gain distance on everyone who’s doing it the “normal” way. You’ll even be increasing your fitness. Once you make finishing hills a habit, your climbing confidence will grow. So will your climbing reputation.
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