I think it's happened to everyone many times.  I believe crank arm length should be designed to fit the rider on the bike, not to avoid pedal strikes.  Since bike size is relative to leg length, usually the length selected by the manufacturer is appropriate.

There is not real key to it because it happens to all of us.  You'll probably be more aware of your pedal position for a few rides and then  you'll go back to instinct.

LittleL1986 wrote on 06/12/15 at 1:57pm:



And there it is...

Full suspension bikes can be more at risk for pedal strikes than hardtails due the pivot at the bottom bracket. It really becomes even more so of a issue if you don't keep your rear shock pressure up where it needs to be. 

I hit mine way less on a hardtail, but don't think for minute I still don't get one every now and then.

I'm a big fan of Specialized products and ride one, but I've noticed that compared to my previous bikes Specialized bikes seem to have lower bottom brackets. I've hit my share of rocks.  I've also learned, the hard way, not to pedal through turns that involve much bike lean, as just a little lean will put my inside pedal in the dirt. I've just learned to adjust. Glad you're okay.

Full Sus Trek Fuel Ex 8. Plenty of pedal strikes. 

They actually seem to happen more at Renni and Sherman. 

Any one you walk away from is a good one.

If it weren't for roots and pedal strikes I'd probably be upright most of the time.

There is a nice rock on the Thread Trail near the end.  I had never seen it until my right pedal caught it one day.  I see it every pass now and its got more than just my mark on it.  Its amazing to me how many moves you can make on a bike without crashing.

I've had my fair share of fractured and bruised ribs, a couple of which were due to "pedal plants."  My biggest crash last year was a Hollywood-style endo launch at RRT due to this very reason - no injury on that one though, luckily.

As you ride, you'll get better judgement with your bike, and if you hit the same trails over and over, you'll learn where the areas are that you have to watch out for.

Also, make sure your pedal position is correct.  i.e. if you're rolling straight, keep your pedals even.  If you're turning, put the pedal down on the opposite side of the turn, weight that side, etc.  Do a YouTube search for detailed descriptions.

But it's like was said already, everyone has crashes from time to time, comes with the territory.