How to Ride a Unicycle
You often see unicycles in circus performances, probably as part of a funny act. While the act of riding one seems easy, getting the hang of it requires proper training and plenty of practice. If you’ve never tried doing this before, here’s how to ride a unicycle properly.
What You’ll Need:
Unicycle
Shin guards
Helmet
A couple of friends
Check Your Unicycle And Surroundings
A good and well-functional unicycle is a must, otherwise, you might end up toppling over or falling, which can be dangerous. Make sure the unicycle is set up properly before you start. Here are several considerations to remember.
unicycling
Tire pressure - Proper tire pressure is crucial. Check the tire and what psi it needs. Most models have 20 pounds per square inch.
Seat adjustment - A unicycle seat swivels. Check that it’s facing forward and not cocked or leaning to just one side. A crooked unicycle seat will get in the way of your legs as you pedal, hindering your movements.
Seat height - Adjusting this is like just adjusting one on a regular bike. Make sure that when you adjust it, your leg can stretch to reach the pedal’s lowest point, but there’s still a slight bend in your knee.
As for the practicing area, it’s best to start riding your unicycle in a spacious, flat and hard surface, with a fence or handrail nearby that you can grasp for support. It’s also a good idea to have another person with you while you practice. When you get better, you’ll learn to ride the unicycle in other places, even without any support.
Mounting The Unicycle
Getting on the unicycle for the first time can be difficult and uncomfortable for the beginner. If you don’t do itr properly, you’ll lose your footing easily. Here’s how to mount properly.
Position yourself beside the fence or the rail, putting one hand on it for balance. As you hold on, put a foot on the higher pedal. Press down.
Your other foot should stay on the ground as you mount. Keeping your grip on the rail, put the other foot on the other pedal, then push down to balance yourself. Make sure you push the high pedal forward while pushing it down, otherwise, you’ll go backward.
Pick up the inside foot then put it on the unicycle’s inside pedal.
When you get used to this, you can now try mounting the unicycle without any support. Start at the first position, pushing hard on one foot. Do it in a fluid motion, but not too fast, or you’ll lose your footing.
Push up on the pedal, then get the other foot on the other pedal. Put your butt on the seat while it’s lifting up. Start pedaling.
Moving Around
Balancing is the aspect many people have difficulty with when unicycling. If you can’t do this properly, ask tow of your friends to support you. Let them stain on either side of you, putting your hands on their shoulders. Don’t put your weight on them, though.
As you do this, look straight ahead. Focus your sight on something in front of you, and concentrate. Imagine yourself cycling to that thing.
When you finally get used to balancing, you can ask your friends to let go of you.
Steering can be done through leaning, but be careful not to lose your balance. Even as you lean you need to maintain a balanced posture.
When you manage to stay on the unicycle for 30 seconds at a time, try practicing on other areas, such as over inclines, bumps and declines.
Some Tips:
When you start losing your balance, just let go of the pedals and land your feet on the ground.
Wear a helmet. You can never tell when accidents will happen.
When you become good, try to learn how to juggle. It’s a delightful and classic unicycle trick.
Unicycling is a cool trick you’ll certainly enjoy. Just follow these steps and tips and you’ll soon perfect this stunt.