Ride Leader training

 

The club needs to keep up its flow of new leaders to stay alive and at the AGM it was explained that we barely have enough ride leaders to maintain our rides programme. For September and October  we currently have 6 rides that are not covered. I am sure that most of us have the makings of a ride leader in us but  just need a bit of confidence to take the plunge. So to that end I have been researching options for some formal coaching to support our members and enable them to step up as ride leaders, or the intermediate step of sub-leader which is a major contribution to the viability of our rides.

Jen Buckley is a qualified cycling coach who can offer a package of three hours of training, focussing on the skills required to successfully plan and lead a ride. This would consist of 1 hour theory (either Zoom or face to face) covering expectations of ride leaders, roles and responsibilities, route planning, key skills required e.g communication, leadership, bike checks etc. This would be followed by a practical session on the road honing group leading skills and gaining dynamic feedback to increase confidence, of around 2 hours.

Initially, we would aim to have a get together for potentially interested members and discuss their particular issues regarding ride leading. Jen could then tailor the course to our specific needs and concerns. She could take 6-8 members in a group and would charge an incredibly reasonable £15-20 per person for the three hours of coaching. Furthermore, we have some left-over funds in the kitty from CUK which means the cost would come down to around £10-14 per person depending on the number of takers.

I have done online coaching (via Zoom and Zwift) with Jen as well as taking part in an outdoor session, both of which I thoroughly enjoyed. She is an excellent, motivational coach and I am sure she would give anyone thinking of stepping up,   the confidence to lead a ride. I will be signing up for the first group, hopefully starting in September/October so potential ride leaders and subbies please let me know if you would like to join Jen and me for what promises to be a fun and informative experience!

Best wishes

Sue

sue.foster39@gmail.com