What's being a MTB coach or guide really like?

Being a MTB coach or guide is massively rewarding - it feels amazing when you help riders gain confidence and build their skills on the bike. It’s a ALOT of fun and all of us would say that no two days are ever the same. We meet great people and explore amazing trails - isn't that what life is meant to be about!?  

It's super varied! One day, we might be teaching the core skills to beginners, and the next, we're leading experienced riders through more technical trails. We get to work with every type of person you could think of - from kids who race to adults who have never been off road before. We lead the group, observe the riders and then offer them coaching to help them progress. In general as guides and coaches we might lead a local community ride, do 1-1 coaching, run a whole day of jumps coaching or support an entire race team prepare for an event. Variety is the definitely the spice of life for all of us. 

This is a great question and the answer is, a lot of different types of people!  

 

It doesn't matter if you are an introvert or an extrovert, a solid weekend rider or you race world cups, as long as you are passionate and want to support others, then with the right taining, you can be a good guide or coach. There are a lot of riders who want to share their passion and help others progress, maybe they want a career in MTB coaching or guiding or perhaps they want to lead community groups - people like scout leaders or teachers, and charity workers often become guides or coaches. 

They ride their bikes (normally whenever they get the chance!) and then follow one of the variety of routes into becoming qualified. We personally love the MBCUK accredited Trail Leader and Tech trail leader courses as they are really hands on and are great for different levels of riders.  

 

The level 1 Trail Leader course trains and assesses you to lead rides on and off road (up to moderate terrain). It covers group leadership, navigation, fixing bikes at the trail side, planning and risk assessment alongside lots of other skills.  

 

The level 2 Technical Trail Leader does all of the above but is for more experienced riders who may go onto to lead and coach on more difficult terrain. 

 

If so give us a shout!  

 

All of our leadership courses are fun, practical, and hands-on, so you leave ready to lead rides with confidence. Our tutors are super friendly and supportive and we offer both mixed and female only sessions to make sure everyone feels comfortable and learns in the right way for them.