A new instructor, Robert, commented on my article on being comfortable with silence that he admitted to his students he was doing something that was really hard for him. This got me thinking about other scenarios when it’s more helpful to just simply be up-front with your students about your own challenges and admit your humanness. Here are seven more examples, and I welcome your thoughts as well.Read more…

Honoring musical legends in our cycling classes when they leave this world is a great way to play tribute to amazing artists, while at the same time expanding your own musical repertoire. It gives you an excuse to play tracks you might not normally play—and who knows? You—and your riders—may discover genres you wouldn’t normally ride to! Here are four Allman Brothers songs you won’t want to miss.Read more…

Here is the analysis of the power files I posted a few weeks ago. I had two winners, Karyn and Bill, who posted their suggestions about what was going on with power output, heart rate, and cadence. Posts like these will serve to increase your knowledge, helping you create profiles with purpose. They should also be eye-openers to help expand your coaching, even if you don’t have power!Read more…

Two months ago, I wrote a post about the wisdom (or lack of it) of standing for very long periods out of the saddle. I challenged anyone in the indoor cycling world to perform my standing climb challenge. I still think it’s worth trying, but I recognize it’s not a very effective workout, so I have a much more attainable challenge; one which will also be eye-opening as you compare power, heart rate, and cadence with standing versus seated efforts. Will you do this challenge?Read more…

cycling for runners

I have been a runner for most of my adult life. I ran my first marathon in 1995 and have run numerous other marathons, half marathons, and 5Ks since. In that time, like most runners, I have sought out tools to improve my health and performance in the sport. What I have learned is that cycling is a fantastic cross-training option for runners. Whether you run or you have runners in your classes, knowing how indoor cycling can positively influence a running program will help you to design the right balance between the ride and the run.
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shy instructor

Are you the shy instructor? You can feel confident and energetic when teaching your indoor cycling class even if you are an introvert. Shy instructors can be terrific by simply unlearning a few misconceptions about performing in public. If this is you, it’s time to up your game by stopping the behaviors or beliefs that may be limiting your performance. In part 1 of this series, you learned to rechannel your anxiety and to stop thinking of public performance as a “gift.” In part 2, you will learn to stop doubting yourself.
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