So how do you do it? Unfortunately there's no big secret - it's down to practice and plenty of it. That said, there's a few things to be aware of that can help...
Safety First
Before I get in to it I'll state a few golden rules:
- Wear protection - wrist guards at the very least should be worn and preferably knee pads, elbow pads and a helmet too. Not only do these protect you if and when you fall they also give you a greater sense of confidence to go for it.
- If you know you're about to take a dive look after yourself first - let the unicycle fend for itself. If you can safely grab the back of the seat as you come off then so much the better but if not don't worry about it - let it drop.
- Practice in a safe area - find yourself an open space of flat smooth ground that's clear of stones, glass and anything else you wouldn't want to fall on.
Softly Softly
Like learning just about anything new don't expect miracles. It's easy to think, "other people can do it so I should too". Learning to unicycle is very challenging and (usually) doesn't happen straight off. Some people like to set themselves a time limit for practice sessions. This doesn't work for me as I prefer to aim for a goal to achieve then stop: safe in the knowledge that I've done what I set out to do. So this is what I recommend. It took me a week of practising every night to make it across the short side of a tennis court. Each night I'd mark a spot further and further away on the ground that I wanted to reach. When I'd reach my spot 3 times I'd stop and go home feeling fantastic about what I'd achieved.
Into the Big Blue Yonder
Some folks like to practice next to a stretch of wall to give them something to lean against as they take their first revolutions. It's a matter of preference but for me I found that more frustrating and actually a hindrance - I'd make a few pedals, wobble too close to the wall and have no space to try and correct myself. Instead, I'd get on to my unicycle with the aid of a wall and ride out in to open space. This gives you the room to at least try and keep going. Also, if you've got a mobile wall (a human helper to lean on) then they can come with you.
It's All About Falling
While not strictly (!) true there is something to the above statement. When you're moving you're basically falling in the desired direction but pedalling to keep the wheel pushing you along in this state. This means you have to lean forwards more than you really think you should be. Hmmm... sounds scary!
Don't Look Down
Someone who knows their physics might be able to explain the technicalities of this but it really helps to look into the distance. Try and keep your gaze fixed on a distant point on the horizon and not 3 feet infront of you.
Sit Up Straight
Posture is important to your riding and sitting up straight is highly advised. It might sound unpleasant (and all too real sometimes) but imaging the seat post carries on through the seat and up your back.
Smooth Strokes
The smoother and more consistent your pedalling action is the easier it is to control your unicycle. So try and keep to a rhythm.
