In my experience, trying to push off just makes life harder than need be. Getting started is really easy. The only problem is convincing yourself that's true.

Here are the simple secrets:

• select a lowish gear but not your granny unless you're on a super steep hill
• clip the foot on your choice in
• have pedal of your choice in position for a nice strong stroke
• apply gentle brake
• relax
• really, the relax part is essential
• are you totally relaxed?
• stay relaxed, no pushing off or body flopping or any other trick
• release brake as you
• take off with a nice smooth easy stroke
• staying relaxed because the bike really does want to stay up
• pedal away as you get the other foot clipped in