When biking, it is instantly assumed by most people that spending more time on a flat route will require lesser effort compared to a short time on a hilly route. Yes, there could be some truth to such, but this is not always the case. There are some factors that should be taken into account. There are different ways by which you can measure the hilliness, and hence, different ways to determine the intensity required. If you are wondering how many miles is 2,000 feet and if you are interested in knowing how to measure your route, keep on reading and we will provide you with some insights that you should know.
So, How Many Miles is 2,000 Feet?
2,000 feet is equal to roughly .4 miles. If you think of it, driving 2,000 feet is a piece of cake. You wonÔÇÖt even sweat before you are able to complete your route. However, we are not always referring to a straight line here. It does not always mean that you should be biking in a paved route. In some instances, this would refer to a hilly climb, which will be challenging, especially for anyone who is used into city biking on flat roads. With this, the next part of our discussion deals with some of the ways by which you can determine how hilly the climb is.
The first would be through the measurement of the total vertical climb. In this case, biking at a distance of 2,000 vertical feet is definitely longer compared to 1,000 vertical feet. This is provided that all things are equal, such as the conditions of the trail.
Another way of being able to measure hilliness would be through grade or the steepness of the hill. Provided that you have two hills, both of which are 200 feet, the steeper one, logically, will be the hill that will be harder to climb. The computation would be through dividing the vertical climb with the horizontal distance.
Lastly, you can also consider the hill index. This is a numerical index that will provide you with an estimated figure of the steepness of the hill. The higher the hill index is, the more difficult it will be for you to have it climbed, even if the distance is just short.
Tips in Climbing Uphill
For sure, you are now confused. We are as well. But we are trying to help you, so we try as much to sound easy. Forget about the hilliness computation. Now that we have brushed up on the computations, let us go to the more important part. We will provide you with some practical tips that you should keep in mind when biking uphill. By following the tips that will be mentioned below, it will be a lot easier for you to bike in steep grounds.
- One of the most important things that you should do is to have mental preparation. If you know what you will be climbing and if you are mentally-ready for it, things will be a lot easier compared to being surprised right there and then after spontaneously knowing that you will be biking uphill.
- Make sure that you have comfortable clothing. It will require more effort on your end. You will be sweating a lot and your muscles will be put into greater use. If you are comfortable with what you wear, you will be able to deliver better biking performance.
- Regular exercise is also needed. This will help to strengthen the muscles and increase your stamina. With this, biking uphill will be a piece of cake for you. If you do not have regular exercise, you will most probably end up struggling.
- Finding your most comfortable position is also a must. Once you have figured out your optimal position, it will be easier to bike uphill. This is one thing that might require practice and experimentation. If you are uncomfortable with your current position, switch to a new one until you are able to find one that is perfect for you.
- You should also be familiar with the gearing techniques and how to properly shift. You should shift your gear in anticipation of the next route, not only once you are there. In many instances, you will realize that it is too late for you to be changing your gears.
- Make sure that your bike is in its best condition. Have it regularly inspected. From the tires to the brakes, the seat to the frame, if the bike is at its best, it will help make uphill climbs more bearable.
- Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, just keep your focus. Do not lose the momentum. Eye on the prize, as they would say. Always think of what lies at the end of the road and do not entertain negative thoughts. You can do it ÔÇô this should be your mantra.
