Originally Posted by Lemond1985

I have not seen anyone mention gearing, but I would suggest having a 1:1 gear for recovery and super-steep stuff. That means if you have a 34 chainring up front, you also have a 34 in the back. A 1:1 gear will allow you to go approximately walking speed up a very steep climb. Very handy for catching your breath. If you need a gear lower than that, you'd probably be better off walking. It might seem like overkill, but if you do any climbs over 10% it will come in very handy.

Another thing I have learned is how to recover on a climb. It does no good to keep struggling to keep up with a group that's climbing too fast, if you keep trying, you'll just explode and maybe have to quit for the day. That which is unsustainable must eventually stop. It's better to back off your effort to a level that's sustainable and catch your breath. Then try to catch up on the descent.

For getting stronger, there's nothing like "just" an hour a week of high intensity, gasping-for-breath effort (combined with good food and rest). Just ask Race Across America champ Lon Haldeman:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9FfA6VM7iT4