How to Fall

As I was reading Amber Lewis's story about the "First Fall", I noticed that Corporal Punishment mentioned Law Enforcement Bicycle Association training on how to fall. I thought I would give a quick description of how it is taught in a LEBA course. This works best on slow speed tip overs such as learning to unclip when stopping.

Of course it would be easier if I just showed you how to do it, I will work on a video, but for now I will try to describe it.

As you fall sideways, hold onto the handlebar and STAY CLIPPED into the pedals. Try to let the bar end hit the ground first to absorb the shock, and simultaneously tuck your shoulder so that you roll onto your side, spreading the force of the landing over the mass of your body. Done right, the bike arcs upside down above you as you roll over on the ground and click out of the pedals. Sticking your arm out to brace yourself, (natural reaction) puts extreme stress on a small area of your hand that can easily torque and break your collarbone or wrist. Keep you hands on the bars to reduce the chance of injury

With over the handlebar accidents, sticking your hands straight out to stop the fall is also a natural reaction. What we teach is the "Tuck and Roll". By practicing this on the grass or mats, this will prevent you from trying to "catch" yourself while going over the bars.

From a running start,(jog), tuck your chin into your chest, cover your head with your arms and dive forward onto a mat or grass. Stay loose and roll across your shoulder and back. You will come to a safe stop either sitting or back on your feet, depending on your speed. Basically a shoulder roll.

I have used both techniques and have come out with nothing more than a dirty jersey and a little abrasion. The more you practice the more natural it will feel, and the better chance you will do it instinctively when crashing.

Hope this helps.