This problem is new to me this year. I don't get it. I am unable to start pedaling my bike on a very slight incline. I didn't have this problem last year. Is it because I am 67?

I decided I would try a hill I avoided all last year. I was able to start on flat place and then go up the long steep hill. I got all the way to the top on my bicycle! At the top of the hill there is a beautiful area with several trails. There is a really sharp turn at the end of one hill and I always stop there because I am scared I will crash. But then to continue on there is a very slight hill and just can't get the pedals going so I had to walk to where it was flat. There was also another very small incline -- it's not even a hill -- in the middle a pedestrian and I absolutely could not get on my bike. I had to walk that too.

I try to keep the right pedal up so I can push it down while I try to put my foot on the left pedall.. I can't seem to do it.. I seems I am very clumsy with my left foot as well as not being fast enough.

What has changed from last year? I need to get up those tiny little hills. I am supposed to be riding not walking! What am I supposed to do?

Note: I do not wear clip or cripples shoes. My pedals grip the bottom of my shoes. The pedals have little spikey things on them. I wore these tennis shoes all last year and just love them.

Thanks in advance to anyone who can advise me!