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Grimpeur (gram-peurr), or the feminine grimpeuse (gram-peuhz), is a French term, literally translated as “climber.” To be a true grimpeur, one must be strong-willed and physically tough, able to suffer more than the next rider to get to the top first. True heart. In the women’s peloton, American Mara Abbott is the epitome of a grimpeuse. This all-climbing profile was created in honor of this amazing female athlete. If you have concerns about one long climb, rest-assured, we provide modifications and motivations to keep your class engaged. Read more…

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While instructors most often lead adults in group exercise classes, we also share many parallels with teachers of children. Check out Rita Pierson’s TED Talk, “Every Kid Needs a Champion,” to see how she prioritizes personal connection or relationship over all else when helping children succeed. You’ll find some great ideas to bring into the cycling studio.Read more…

doesn't like you FB

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In: My Cycling Class Today
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Have you ever had a rider who you assumed just did not like you or your class, but they still came regularly? They don’t interact, they don’t listen to your cues, they don’t smile, they don’t stay and chat, but there they are, week after week. Could your perception be wrong? Could it be something entirely different? Izabela recounts a not-so-uncommon story that revealed the truth about one of her regulars. Read how she turned it around.Read more…

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All instructors are entitled to deference and respect, but in the absence of a ‘superhero cape,’ unfortunately respect is not as common as it should be. Instructors, do you get the respect you should? If not, consider weaving your own “don’t-mess-with-me” cape, and perhaps you can also wield the seven special “superhero” powers that Christine’s gives her. Read more…

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In: Class Profiles, Instructor Issues & growth, Music Resources
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Are your rides beginning to all seem the same, with only slight variations of the playlist? Do you suffer from “writer’s block” when you start to plan a new class, taking hours to complete one? Don’t worry, it’s not you. It’s your ride creation process. All of these problems can be fixed by simply adopting a new approach to planning your classes. Read more…

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Have you heard of the #22Pushup Challenge? If so, I bet you haven’t heard of someone asking their entire indoor cycling class do the push-ups with them! That’s what ICA contributor Bill Roach did with his classes—what a great way to raise awareness! If you want to do this challenge, let me know in the comments and I’ll nominate you on Facebook.Read more…

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In: Class Profiles, Outdoor Cycling
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Stage 17 of the Vuelta a Espana ends on a summit never before used in this race. It has leg-searing segments of 19%, 20%, and even 22% grade. Translation: us mere mortals would be walking our bikes! This profile gives you the cues to inspire your riders up steep climbs like this while also encouraging them to pull back if needed. The music is all Spanish artists, with motivating tracks to fire you up the climbs. Venga! Read more…

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In: Class Profiles, Theme Ride Thursday
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Another 2016 Rio Olympics profile, this one based on the Olympic Road Race. It’s a very challenging ride with four laps over a steep climb, and ending with a fast flat to a sprint finish. Robert builds the excitement in this profile, very much like a Tour de France stage. The music is Brazilian, bringing you and your class even closer to the games! Read more…