In parts 1 and 2, I discussed two approaches to avoid when cueing resistance. In this and the following article, I provide tips on how to teach the concept of resistance and inspire your riders to add enough so that they achieve the adaptations your profile is targeting. This article describes the warm-up and provides cues for establishing that first touch of the resistance knob or gear level so riders can prepare the body at the proper intensity.Read more…

This week’s Friday Favorites features a track driven by powerful percussion that will elevate your ride. With its steady rhythm and evolving intensity, it’s perfect for a challenging sustained climb or rolling hills. Whether you’re keeping a consistent 70 rpm or varying your cadence with the terrain, the beat will help you push through the effort and stay focused.Read more…

Grab your helmets and your sense of humor—because it’s the end of the world…again. Or not. May 21 is End of the World Day! Whether you’re escaping an asteroid or doing your final sprint through the gates of Valhalla, this is a theme ride idea that lets you mix humor, storytelling, and music with just enough existential dread to keep things spicy. Use our bucket playlist of 235 songs and these creative coaching ideas to help you create your last class on Earth. Make it legendary and ride like there’s no tomorrow…again! 🚴‍♀️🌍🔥Read more…

This song is an iconic piece from the mid-’80s, known for its slow, steady build in both energy and emotion. Starting off soft and ambient, it gradually intensifies, making it perfect for a progressive 3-2-1 drill at 100 rpm. As the track reaches its peak, you’ll feel the power surge, giving your riders the perfect opportunity to push their limits and finish strong.Read more…

In part 1 of this series on coaching resistance in cycling classes, I described a popular but ineffective coaching method: assigning a specific number of “turns” on the resistance knob. Now I want to address another flawed method: using a 1–10 resistance scale. Honestly, this one might be even worse—because it’s not tied to anything meaningful. It’s arbitrary, inconsistent, and ultimately unhelpful. Here are four reasons why this method leads to confusion.Read more…

Coaching resistance is one of the more challenging aspects of being an indoor cycling instructor. In this series, you will learn the two most common yet ineffective methods of teaching resistance. We will then provide you with a technique of encouraging your riders to add load in a way that will help them experience what your profile is calling for so they can be more successful. We will end with dozens of creative coaching cues for adding resistance. You will emerge a better, more informed instructor. Read more…

Some songs are more than music—they’re an invitation to let go. This week’s Timeless Classic brings a soulful, calming energy that helps riders transition from the intensity of class to a peaceful, refreshed state of mind. It’s a track that’s stood the test of time, offering the perfect backdrop to lower heart rates, ease breathing, and send everyone off the bike feeling grounded and renewed.Read more…

Much like a fine wine, a well-crafted indoor cycling class is the result of expertise, experimentation, and careful refinement. The consumer—in this case, the student in cycling class—may or may not understand the science behind it—they only know this is their favorite instructor, the one who consistently delivers an incredible experience.Read more…