Most club runs make a point of taking in some of the tougher local climbs, so use this as an opportunity for some friendly competition and to test yourself.

Again, communication is key and this is never more the case than when the club run heads for the hills. Undoubtedly when climbing a certain amount of competition kicks in and the club run turns into a little race for the top. This is absolutely fine and all part of the fun, however what is important is to regroup afterwards and make sure everyone gets home together.

It’s always a good idea to have a few sections of the ride where everyone is free to ride at their own pace. Knowing this before you set off means that everyone is happy to do their own thing safe in the knowledge that the group will regroup afterwards and carry on the ride as one.

A great way to do this can be to stop at the next café or after the descent. The reason I say after the descent instead of at the top of the climb is that stronger riders can continue to the bottom of descent then turn around and start riding back up. This not only gives them an extra climb but also means everyone keeps moving and doesn’t get cold – a big consideration in the winter.

When the faster riders come across the last rider on the road, chances are they will be very near the top of the initial climb or on the descent, so everyone will have been riding throughout and the slower guys don’t feel like everyone is waiting at the top of the climb getting cold.