Sliding back during climbing

[NealH]

I see some articles on the internet that recommend sliding back a cm or so during climbing - or lets say climbing seated at sustained 7-8% grades. I've also read comments that say one is better off to slide slightly foward to get over the crankset and handlebars a bit more. This should provide for better power transfer.

Is this a situation where it is probably better to move back and forth during the climb to change the muscle group loading thus provide some relief or, should the majority of time be spent in one of these positions (sliding back or foward) for this type extended climbing? Or, should one stay put, shut up and just pedal ?

[doofus]

most folks find that they are more balanced and can get more glute involved when they slide back on the saddle on long climbs. if you are taller, or have more upper body weight, sliding back will be more comfortable, as it will if you are a 75-88 rpm climber.

it depends.

some with light upper bodies and a higher cadence style might be more comfortable climbing for a long time sliding forward. if you're not built like marco pantani, this might not work well for you

[Archibald]

Depends on grade and cadence. Sliding back is good if you're a low rpm masher, the opposite if you're a spinner. When it gets steep enough that you have to worry about weighting the front tire, that will dictate your position. I wouldn't over-analyze it.

[Curt Goodrich]

There's no right or wrong. Try and error will tell you what works for you. Listen to your body and the stopwatch if you're so inclined. Don't overthink it.

[Archibald]

There's no right or wrong. Try and error will tell you what works for you. Listen to your body and the stopwatch if you're so inclined. Don't overthink it.

Copycat. :hahaha:

[jsf]

I find that sliding back on the saddle and keeping my hands loosely on the upper bar allows me to spin 80-90 going up hill and keeps my heart rate and breathing at as reasonable level. The Gluts do 'all' the work. j
-Jon

[Curt Goodrich]

You're pretty fast for an old guy.

[Cary Ford]

I just try to get up the effin hill.

[DarrenCT]

There's no right or wrong. Try and error will tell you what works for you. Listen to your body and the stopwatch if you're so inclined. Don't overthink it.

exactly. sorta like other positions unrelated to cycling

[72gmc]

I focus on my hands--light on the bars, loose grip--and breathing out the Alexi Grewal way. If I have those two covered my butt finds its own way, usually back in the saddle.

[WadePatton]

I just try to get up the effin hill.

Yeah, I move around according to which muscle group is wasted.:frown:

[Fixed]

Yeah, I move around according to which muscle group is wasted.:frown:

that works for me on my bridge well i have been in the mountains before too
cheers
butch