Qualifications
As part of our 4-week mountain bike course we include two courses in addition to our coaching: 1) an optional instructor training course (PMBI) and 2) a three day trail building course designed by the International Mountain Biking Association (IMBA). Both courses will set you up for success, whether you simply want to be a great rider, build amazing trails in your backyard, or perhaps want to work in the mountain bike industry.
Mountain Bike Instructor Training
As part of the four week course we arrange an optional three day instructor course course (PMBI). This course is suitable for more advance riders and will lead you through the essentials of breaking down the fundamental skills necessary to teach and guide a beginner to intermediate level rider in a very clear, concise and step by step manner.
The program starts with an evening of theory: understanding the role of an instructor, industry standards, risk management as well as teaching and learning theories and strategies. The following two days are on the bikes, where we outline each skill's teaching points, demonstrations, assessments and group management practices.
The PMBI certification is currently recognized by:
- Sports Insurance
- Colleges/College of the Rockies
- University clubs
- Bike Parks
- Cycling Associations
- The Dirt Series
During the course you will be taught, as well as assessed on, the following skills:
- Demonstrate and teach confidently and correctly
- Explain the teaching points and application of each skill
- Spot common errors and correct them in a concise, effective and constructive manor
- Deal with common challenging learning situations during lessons
- Communicate effectively: able to identify and work with people of different learning styles
- Manage different ability levels and varied progressions during a lesson
- Plan lessons with a focus
- Minimize risk to students, instructor and the company
The PMBI certification course has been designed and is delivered by ZEPtechniques.
International Mountain Biking Association (IMBA) - Three day Trail Building course.
Another component of the course is a three day trail building course. The advantage of taking this course is that you will quickly be able to appreciate a great trail and you will be able to contribute to the design, building and maintenance of mountain bike trails both in Fernie and at home. Additionally, for those wanting to pursue a career in the industry it will add another “string to your bow” of mountain bike related skills that will be attractive to future employers in the industry. Topics covered include:
- Sustainable trail design
- Basic construction
- Turns, drainage and bridges
- Trail Reroutes
- Trail Reclamation
- Rockwork
- Fostering volunteer clubs and partnerships
- Effective Use of Signage
