Climbing Cadence and Style.

An tip from Bobby Julich (Pro Cyclist)

"I tend to spin a lot more than most pro climbers. My cadence is probably 80 to 100rpm even on the most steepest climbs."
Most climbers slide forward and backwood in the saddle to vary the strain on their muscles, but I try to stay in the same place most of the time. I climb with my hands on the brake hoods and relax my arms when I am seated."

Lance Armstrong also prefers a rapid cadence, he has an amazing ability to spin up steep grades while his competitors are grinding.

The secret is to choose gearing that lets you spin on the steepest climbs in your area. If it takes a 39x27 low gear, get one. Don't let vanity stand in the way. Lance regularly climbs in a 23 and say's he thinking about putting on a 25. You'll find that you, too, climb just as fast when your pedaling a lower gear more rapidly. And your knees will thank you.

While you're spinning up climbs, think about relaxing your upper body. Muscular tension in arms, shoulders and face uses energy better spent for turning the pedals.