Riding into a block headwind for mile after mile can be a dispiriting and lonely experience. It will sap your morale and, if not given the respect it deserves, your legs, too.

We’re not short on blustery conditions here in the UK so encountering a headwind is a matter of when, not if.

A headwind represents a significant challenge – like pedaling with the brake blocks rubbing on the rim – and one that can quickly eat into energy reserves if not tackled with care. So what can you do to ease the pain?

Here are six ways to beat a headwind, and if you have tips of your own, leave your comments below.