Help!

Answers to common problems when first learning

Tensing Up / Panicing

It feels scary to let go of the rail. People often tense up and take their weight off the seat, which makes you fall off straight away because the weight of your foot on the pedal creates leverage that twists the unicycle out from underneath you. Keep your weight on the seat.

Twisting

If the unicycle keeps twisting out from underneath you, then there is too much force on the pedals. Keep your weight on the seat and trust your weight to it. Your feet should support none of your body weight, and touch the pedals with just enough force to turn them around.

Always turning or falling left (or right)

First, check that the seat is straight and the pedals are screwed tightly into the cranks. If the unicycle is OK, then don’t worry too much. Just choose a big area and stay on as long as you can. Turning right will come later.

Point your knees into the direction of the turn or fall and you will steer into it and stay on longer.

Frequent Falling

If you get two revs away from the rail and fall every time, keep your weight on the seat.

Be patient: just keep practicing. Try to do another half a revolution each time. Donʼt worry about direction: just stay up and on as long as you can.

Elvis Pelvis

Correct posture is upright but relaxed. Push your hips forward until they are vertically under your shoulders. Do that “Elvis” thrust and straighten up.

Holding on to the seat.

It is tempting, especially if it has a handle. Hanging on to the seat encourages hunching over and riding crooked. Wave your arms around for balance. Looking good comes later (heh heh)

Getting it right

Riding should feel smooth and relaxed. As easy as walking. Upper body is flexible and able to move for balance as needed, lower body is seated comfortably and does the pedalling and steering.