But it takes years, sometimes, for those lightbulb moments to strike. It could be the sudden realization that exerting some pull with your arms is a great help for climbing; I had been riding for many years before that dawned on me.

This action means that my full weight isn’t on the saddle (although I maintain contact with it); and I can exert more push on the pedals. It’s also helpful when I want to work at pushing the pace.

It takes years to develop cycling technique; or anyway, it took me years. I can’t afford a personal trainer; so I gleaned various bits of advice from reading.

I’m still waiting to hear when I may ride again. The workouts I’m getting really aren’t sufficient; I’m just trying to keep my body from becoming totally flabby.