It is said that people’s number one fear is public speaking. What do we do when we are leading an indoor cycling class? We are in front of a group of people who are hanging on every word we say! Bravo to each and every one of you who has taken on this amazing role of coaching cycling; you are saying “Take that!” to public speaking.
Nevertheless, some new instructors are more challenged than others with stage fright, especially if they do not come from a group fitness background. Most of these insecurities are easily quelled with experience. You’ve got to get out there and practice, practice, practice. Allow yourself the time and space to make mistakes. There is no instructor on this planet who hasn’t gone through the learning curve and made mistakes. I bet each one of us has some embarrassing stories to tell! It’s a part of doing what we do.
Here are some tips that will minimize your pain as you move beyond your certification.
First of all, the single most important piece of advice you will ever hear:
Never, ever stop learning!
Coming up in part 2, we’ll provide more tips on engaging your students, and what profiles to use when you are first learning to teach.
Jennifer, as you know, I work quite a bith with new instructors. You have presented here a wonderful outline of the key concepts to get a new instructor up and running. Good job. (As always!)
thanks!
Great read and reminders!
Great article, with wonderful insight. Thanks!