Yesterday, my body was subjected to the abuse that the natural physics law of gravity can render on one who while climbing a hill on a bicycle runs out of energy before the top and fails to unclip their shoes from the pedals. (See footnote)
It was one of the many lessons that I have failed to realize that there is no defying.This is the second fall in three rides this season, both of which occurred because I did not unclip my shoes from the pedals.
Maybe it was a reminder of two things. Tomorrow I start teaching another college physics course, and this reminded to be prepared. The second thing is, if I were 50 pounds lighter, the impact of my body with the pavement would be lessened considerably.
Perhaps I need to practice more unclipping my shoes from the pedals or perhaps I should unclip before heading uphill?
Enjoy cycling and spare the air!
FOOTNOTE: Many cyclists, pro and non-pro, wear shoes that have clips on the bottom that "lock" your foot the the pedal for more efficient pedaling because you are pulling up with one foot while pushing down with the other. It's easy to unclip by twisting the back of your foot to the outside... timing is everything though!
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