Ask the Expert: Should You Ride at the Intensity of Your Students?

Back in 2012, I had the incredible opportunity to film a series of videos in the stunning backdrop of Kauai during a Global Ride virtual ride project. While on location, I collaborated with the legendary Tom Scotto, a master in the indoor cycling world. At the time, Tom was with Cycling Fusion but later joined ICA for several years, where he shared his extensive knowledge and passion for the sport.

Knowing I had such a wealth of expertise at my fingertips, I recorded three Ask the Expert videos with Tom that addressed some important questions we cycling instructors face. These videos remain just as relevant today as they were when we first created them.

• Video 1 (This post): When should you ride at the same intensity as your class versus coaching from a lighter effort?
• Video 2: Tips for “faking it” while teaching (and a dose of humor!)
• Video 3: How to stay confident when you’re one of the few instructors in your facility adhering to proper cycling principles.

These are timeless topics that resonate with instructors at every level, and I’m thrilled to revisit this first video with you.

When Should Instructors Ride at the Intensity of the Class?

The debate over whether instructors should match the intensity of their riders is as old as indoor cycling itself. Some programs advocate rarely working as hard as the class to focus entirely on coaching and cueing. This approach has its merits, particularly in high-intensity sessions or with new riders who need extra guidance. However, there are also moments when riding at the class’s intensity can be incredibly powerful—for connection, motivation, and authenticity.

In this video, Tom Scotto and I dive into the nuances of this topic, sharing our experiences and practical tips for finding the right balance. Whether you’re new to instructing or a seasoned pro, you’ll discover valuable insights to help you elevate your coaching game and better engage with your riders.

Take a few minutes to watch this video, and let us know in the comments: how do you approach riding at the class’s intensity?

When you’re ready for more, don’t miss Video #2, where Tom and I dive into the art of… well… faking it while coaching! It’s a fun and insightful discussion that’s sure to bring a smile to your face while giving you practical tips. Watch it here!