Help others experience the benefits & pleasures of safe cycling.
Teaching someone to ride a bike, or to ride more safely and comfortably in traffic, is incredibly fulfilling. During the process, you will learn much, much more about cycling and about interacting with others.
The Center for Cycling Education's detailed and effective instructor training program addresses all the necessary elements, including instructional theory and practice, risk management, financial planning, course promotion and management, follow-up, and ongoing student support.
It's not for everyone. The process is a relatively long one requiring a number of steps, as well an investment of money and considerable volunteer time. Teaching courses often involves a great deal of coordination between many individuals and groups, and a sometimes seemingly endless number of details to track and deal with. And there is always the issue of the weather.
However, the reward for this commitment is substantial. Imagine teaching someone who was wobbly on their bike to handle it well, then helping him or her develop the skills to ride on the road. Then imagine seeing this person some time later, riding comfortably, confidently and competently in busy downtown traffic.
Should you become an active instructor, you will hear many stories from people of how the course you taught literally changed their life. Of being able to join friends in an activity for which they'd previously been an outsider. Of losing weight, and feeling better physically and emotionally. Of having less stress and interacting better with their family. Of avoiding a collision or fall thanks to the skills they now have.
Qualities required of a Cycling Instructor
It is important to realize that while excellent cycling skills are critical to becoming an instructor, these alone do not indicate that an individual is suited to teaching. There are many key qualities required for effectively teaching others and guiding them in potentially dangerous traffic situations. The following are just some of these:
• strong interpersonal skills;
• ability to remain calm in challenging situations;
• excellent planning and coordinating abilities;
• ability to adapt readily to changing conditions/situations as they arise;
• high level of organizational competency;
• non-confrontational attitude in the classroom and on the road;
• willingness and ability to leave ego aside;
• unwavering interest in, and attention to, the safety and comfort of students.
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