PRE-REQUISITES

• PMBIA Level 1 Certification mandatory
• 2+ seasons teaching experience highly recommended, but not mandatory.
• Kids Module is an asset, but not mandatory
• Completed Level 2 Worksheet (available upon registration)
• Confident riding at speed with consistent form and technique on technical and flowy intermediate to advanced terrain; including green, blue and black trails.
• 40hr Wilderness First Aid (or equivalent) expected but not mandatory, as per the Level 1 recommendation.
• A minimum age of 17 is required for Level 2. Guiding and teaching mountain biking is inherently dangerous and being legally responsible for other adults and children, warrants a minimum age for certified instructors.

• Confident, advanced mountain bikers who are passionate about teaching and keen to develop their riding and teaching skills to teach intermediate to advanced students.
• Instructors with experience teaching beginner to intermediate students, in a variety of terrain.
• Instructors who are comfortable riding with consistent skills and technique on advanced, technical, single-black diamond trails and who can consistently perform the advanced maneuvers:
  • AIR: steeps, rock rolls on blue and single black diamond (red in Europe), small to medium tabletop jumps, approximately 6 – 12ft from lip to landing and drop-offs up to 5 ft high using a variety of techniques
• Riders who are comfortable riding with and leading groups in an outdoor environment, in challenging terrain in all conditions, while being responsible for the welfare of other adults and children.

READING MATERIALS & WORKSHEET: 2 – 3 HRS

The pre-course workshop is essential to prepare for either the AIR or TECH Advanced Instructor courses, so you can get the most out of your PMBIA Training. It involves reading the comprehensive PMBIA Reference Guide and appropriate Course Booklet, before completing the mandatory course worksheet. Please note the reading and worksheet takes approximately 2 – 3 hrs to complete. These will be provided in your member profile following registration.

WHEN SHOULD I BOOK MY TRAVEL & ACCOMMODATION, IF I’M TRAVELLING?
PMBI courses require minimum numbers to run and while most courses do run, some do not. It is therefore very important you do not make any travel arrangements, until the course is confirmed to be happening. Simply registering for a course is not a confirmation that the course will ultimately run.

WEATHER
Be ready to ride, regardless of weather; be sure to dress appropriately for conditions and bring spare clothes as required. The course will not be cancelled due to rain or hot/cold weather. Only severe weather conditions such as heavy rain (which damages the trails), heavy snow, lightning storms or extreme heat waves, may result in a course being rescheduled.

To view our Booking & Cancellation Policy, please click here: PMBIA Policies

TIMING
Please be punctual and arrive ready to listen, learn and ride! Plan your journey to the course location and if in doubt, take extra time to avoid being late. We will take up to an hour for lunch each day, between approximately 12pm – 1pm. Please bring food or money for food, depending on course location. Days typically finish between 4-5pm.

To be eligible for a PMBIA certification, you must attend the complete course for the full three days, totalling 27hrs training (including pre-course reading and worksheet).

EQUIPMENT
For Level 1 Courses in lift-accessed, downhill bike parks (lift up, ride down):
Ideally, the PMBIA recommends a good working, modern “Trail” or “Enduro” bike with 5-6 inches of suspension front and rear, quality disc brakes (180 or 200mm rotors) with downhill or enduro casing tires (to avoid pinch flats associated with harder terrain and higher speeds in bike parks). Although not ideal, due to cadence and climbing exercises when practice teaching, downhill bikes can also be used on a Level 1 course in a lift-accessed, downhill bike park.
A modern helmet that fits correctly and knee pads, are mandatory. Gloves and elbow pads are strongly recommended, but at the discretion of the individual. Full face helmets can be worn, but are not mandatory.

For Level 1 Courses in cross country trail networks (no lifts, ride up and down): 
A modern, good working cross country, trail or enduro bike. Downhill bikes will NOT be suitable for Level 1 courses held in cross country trail networks.
A modern helmet that fits correctly, is mandatory. Knee pads, gloves, and elbow pads are strongly recommended, but at the discretion of the individual.

OTHER EQUIPMENT?
You will need to bring the following things…

• working phone

• pen and paper

• small backpack or hip-pack to carry these things…

  • spare tubes and patches/tubeless puncture kit

  • tire levers and pump

  • multi-tool and chain tool

  • first aid kit

  • rain jacket/spare clothes based on weather

  • water & snacks

  • lunch, or money for lunch

AIR TEACHING

The teaching skills of the candidates will be assessed during a minimum of four, 10-20 minute practice teaching sessions. During these sessions, candidates will have the opportunity to ‘practice teach’ the other members of the group in both trail and open area environments, and receive feedback from the PMBIA Trainer.

ASSESMENT CRITERIA

Candidates should be able to guide students safely in green, blue or black, bike park-style terrain, while effectively developing their skills and introducing them to jumps and drops, showing a clear understanding and application of the Lesson Format, Training Wheel & IDEA Progression teaching models.

Level 2 candidates must be at the ‘consistent’ stage of skill development. Level 3 candidates must be at the ‘autonomous’ stage of skill development.

AIR RIDING

Both Level 2 and 3 candidates will be assessed on their overall riding skills and maneuvers throughout the entire course in lift-access/bike park trails, including jumps and drops. There will not be an isolated ‘ride off’ to assess riding skills. This ensures a more progressive, low-stress environment to learn and progress during the full course.

ASSESMENT CRITERIA

Both Level 2 and 3 AIR candidates should be comfortable descending intermediate to advanced technical terrain, including rock rolls, rough, loose and/or off camber terrain with roots and rocks, and cornering with speed and flow on flat and bermed corners. AIR instructors must also be able to perform advanced maneuvers such as jumps and drop-offs, over small to medium features.

Level 2 candidates must be at the ‘consistent’ stage of skill development. Level 3 candidates must be at the ‘autonomous’ stage of skill development.

AIR WORKSHEET

Candidates must read the AIR Course Booklet, PMBIA Reference Guide and complete the AIR Worksheet.

ASSESMENT CRITERIA

Completing the reading and worksheet takes approximately 2 – 4 hrs and acts as the written portion of the candidates assessment.

GENERAL QUESTIONS

DO I NEED MY FIRST AID CERTIFICATE TO PARTICIPATE IN THE COURSE?
No. While the PMBIA strongly recommends all instructors be a minimum 40hr Wilderness/Outdoor First Aid certified before working as an instructor or guide, you do not need a first-aid certificate, prior to participating in the course.

CAN I TAKE THE LEVEL 1 AND 2 IN THE SAME YEAR?
The PMBIA recommends teaching for at least a season, between passing the Level 1 and signing up for the Level 2. This helps consolidate all the teaching and guiding skills that are presented on the Level 1 course. The Level 2 also requires more advanced riding skills, which may take some Level 1 instructors one, two or even three years to learn.

A popular option is to attend one of the 2-day AIR or TECH Development Modules, if you are interested in the Level 2 Certification. These are shorter and act as great preparation for the 4-day AIR or TECH Certification Courses by giving participants a taster of the full course content, as well as the Level 2 riding and teaching standards. However, an experienced instructor (for example, perhaps they are a Level 3 Snowboard Instructor) who is also a strong, experienced mountain biker, might be able to successfully pass both Level 1 and 2 Certifications in the same season. Technically, once you have the Level 1 you can sign up straight away for the full, 4-day AIR or TECH Certification Courses to gain the Level 2 Certificate… just make sure you are ready and you take into account the PMBIA’s recommendations!

WHAT’S THE MINIMUM AGE FOR THE COURSE?
The minimum age for Level 2 courses is 17 years old. Guiding and teaching mountain biking is inherently dangerous, especially at the intermediate to advanced level of riding. Because the instructor is legally responsible for other adults and children, this warrants a higher, minimum age for Level 2 certified instructors.

WHAT RIDING SKILLS ARE REQUIRED?
For more details, check out the Level 2 AIR Riding & Teaching Standards on the video tab.

LEVEL 3 PATHWAY
LEVEL 3 REFINED, ADVANCED INSTRUCTOR

The Level 3 Certification requires instructors to complete both the 4-day Air Instructor Course and the 4-day Tech Instructor Course, and the Kids Module. The purpose of this modular approach to the Level 3 Certification is to provide a training pathway that builds a diverse, adaptable and refined, advanced instructor that can truly benefit the mountain bike industry. A PMBIA Level 3 Instructor will be able to work to a high degree of competency in a huge variety of mountain bike programs and industry positions.

Click here to learn more about the Level 3 pathway.

INJURIES
I HURT MYSELF RIDING AFTER I REGISTERED (BUT BEFORE THE COURSE) AND CAN NO LONGER ATTEND THE COURSE. WILL I GET A REFUND?
This may sound like an obvious thing to say, but if you’ve paid your money and signed up for a PMBIA course you should be taking it easy and making smart decisions so you don’t get hurt riding before the course. It is your responsibility to make sure you are healthy and ready to participate.

As an additional precaution against transmission of colds and influenza, we will not allow you to attend a class if you exhibit signs of such illness. NON-ATTENDANCE without notifying us before the start of the course, will result in 100% loss of payment.

Before the start of a course, for any injury or illness related cancellations, a doctor’s note (no later than five (5) business days after your original course date) will be required and you will be offered a 50% refund. Please contact us as soon as possible, before the start of the course, if you think you will not be able to attend due to injury or Illness at info@pmbia.org.

Once the course has started, if you get injured or become ill, there will be no refund offered.

PMBIA courses require minimum numbers to run. They also require many logistics, including trail permits for specific dates, detailed scheduling, travel and accommodation of course staff, and are confirmed two weeks prior to the start date. It is for these reasons this refund-injury policy exists to ensure the not-for-profit PMBIA, and its course participants, are not adversely impacted by last minute cancellations.

I HAVE HAD AN INJURY OR CONCUSSION THAT IS STILL AFFECTING ME. SHOULD I DISCLOSE THIS INFORMATION IN THE REGISTRATION PROCESS AND SHOULD I STILL PARTICIPATE IN THE COURSE?
The PMBIA strongly recommends not registering or attending a course if you are at all unsure of your physical and mental capabilities; this is especially important if you have recently suffered a concussion.

Please let us know if you have any prior injuries, before registering for the course.

You will be riding and thinking (a lot) for multiple days. The PMBIA courses are physically and mentally demanding. Please consult your physician for a professional opinion on your physical condition, should you have any concerns.

To view our Booking & Cancellation Policy, please click here

CROSSING OVER FROM OTHER CERTIFICATIONS
I’M ONLY GOING TO BE COACHING RACERS & ADVANCED RIDERS, CAN I START WITH THE LEVEL 2 COURSE, INSTEAD OF THE LEVEL 1?
No, you’ll still need to start with the PMBIA Level 1 course. “Learn the fundamentals and do them well”. This is the mantra of any professional, career instructor, guide, coach or teacher… and to do this, you need to start with Level 1. The Level 1 course will still provide plenty of tools to help you analyze your riders technique, develop lesson plans and improve their skills.

If you want to learn how to jump, you have to learn how to pump the bike first. If you want to learn how to run, you need to walk first. It’s the same for teaching. The PMBIA has been involved with training instructors for nearly twenty years. We have seen hundreds if not thousands of teachers, instructors and coaches from all walks of life and different sports, over the years.

The commonality, still to this day, is that all the top, most recognized and respected coaches in the world are the ones who started with a basic Level 1 course, continued training and gradually increased their certifications over time.

I’VE BEEN COACHING WITHOUT A CERTIFICATION AND/OR RACING FOR A WHILE, CAN I SKIP THE LEVEL 1 AND GO STRAIGHT TO LEVEL 2?
No. PMBIA Level 1 is a mandatory requirement before signing up for Level 2. The PMBIA also recommends a year of teaching experience after the PMBIA Level 1, before taking Level 2.

The reasons are simple. Expert riding skills or amazing race results do not automatically qualify someone to be an effective instructor or guide. While a few people can, a good rider doesn’t automatically make for a good teacher, just as a good teacher doesn’t automatically make for a good rider.

The PMBIA courses are instructor courses, primarily designed to train people how to teach. Teaching is complex and requires a variety of skills and expertise. Being able to break down skills, communicate effectively, build lesson plans, analyze technique, find solutions and pathways for improvement, empathize with different ability levels, understand and adapt to different learning styles, guide students at the appropriate speed on the appropriate terrain… and so on, it’s a lot to do!

Teaching, like any other profession, is a skill that takes a long time to learn how to do well. Just as you may have spent a long time learning how to ride a bike well, it takes the same time and investment to develop your teaching skills. Imagine it the other way around. Should an expert teacher who has never ridden, skip the Level 1 and go to Level 2? No, they naturally need to spend the time learning about and building their riding skills, just as a racer might need to start from the beginning to develop and learn about teaching skills.

The other reason is the PMBIA Level 2 Certification builds directly from the PMBIA Level 1 course content and materials. Even if you can or have coached in the past, without knowing and practicing the specific PMBIA Level 1 content, the Level 2 will be even more challenging. As such, the continuation of knowledge from Level 1 to 2 is paramount to candidates gaining the most from the PMBIA training.

The PMBIA has seen many world cup racers, pro’s and professional teachers or coaches on the PMBIA Level 1 courses over the years. These people, despite their incredible resumes or achievements, have all found the PMBIA Level 1 a truly valuable experience.

WHY DO I NEED TO START WITH PMBIA LEVEL 1, IF I’M ALREADY IMBA/BICP CERTIFIED?
The PMBIA Level 1 course is more akin to the IMBA/BICP Level 2 course. This is also the same for other MTB certifications out there. The PMBIA have had many course participants over the years from other programs, and have consistently found that even Level 2’s from other certifications still benefit most from taking the PMBIA Level 1, first. Teaching mountain biking is inherently dangerous so the PMBIA expects more from our Level 1 Instructors, to ensure they deliver the safest, most effective lessons possible.

The other thing to consider is not just Level 1, but also Level 2. The PMBIA Level 2 certification is an advanced instructor training program and requires instructors to be knowledgeable and consistent with the teaching methodologies and materials from the PMBIA Level 1 course. Because the PMBIA Level 2 builds directly from the PMBIA Level 1, without that prior knowledge, people struggle to come into the PMBIA Level 2 and be successful.

The continuation of knowledge from Level 1 to 2 is therefore paramount to candidates gaining the most from the PMBIA training. We want anyone crossing over to PMBIA to gain the most from their training with us and it’s with this logic and our previous experience, that these recommendations have been formed.

The PMBIA has always worked hard to raise the standards for mountain bike instructor and guide training, and this philosophy still drives us today.

TBC

WHO IS THIS COURSE FOR, AM I READY?

• Confident, advanced mountain bikers who are passionate about teaching and keen to develop their riding and teaching skills to teach intermediate to advanced students.
• Instructors with experience teaching beginner to intermediate students, in a variety of terrain.
• Instructors who are comfortable riding with consistent skills and technique on advanced, technical, single-black diamond trails and who can consistently perform the advanced maneuvers:
  • TECH: technical climbs, steeps, rock rolls on blue and single black diamond (red in Europe), basic bunnyhop, wheelie and manual (approx two bike lengths), endo, nose pivot, natural rolls downs and small drops approximately 2 ft high using a variety of techniques.
• Riders who are comfortable riding with and leading groups in an outdoor environment, in challenging terrain in all conditions, while being responsible for the welfare of other adults and children.

PRE-REQUISITES

• PMBIA Level 1 Certification mandatory
• 2+ seasons teaching experience highly recommended, but not mandatory.
• Kids Module is an asset, but not mandatory
• Completed Level 2 Worksheet (available upon registration)
• Confident riding at speed with consistent form and technique on technical and flowy intermediate to advanced terrain; including green, blue and black trails.
• 40hr Wilderness First Aid (or equivalent) expected but not mandatory, as per the Level 1 recommendation.
• A minimum age of 17 is required for Level 2. Guiding and teaching mountain biking is inherently dangerous and being legally responsible for other adults and children, warrants a minimum age for certified instructors.

READING MATERIALS & WORKSHEET: 2 – 3 HRS

The pre-course workshop is essential to prepare for either the AIR or TECH Advanced Instructor courses, so you can get the most out of your PMBIA Training. It involves reading the comprehensive PMBIA Reference Guide and appropriate Course Booklet, before completing the mandatory course worksheet. Please note the reading and worksheet takes approximately 2 – 3 hrs to complete. These will be provided in your member profile following registration.

WHEN SHOULD I BOOK MY TRAVEL & ACCOMMODATION, IF I’M TRAVELLING?
PMBI courses require minimum numbers to run and while most courses do run, some do not. It is therefore very important you do not make any travel arrangements, until the course is confirmed to be happening. Simply registering for a course is not a confirmation that the course will ultimately run.

WEATHER
Be ready to ride, regardless of weather; be sure to dress appropriately for conditions and bring spare clothes as required. The course will not be cancelled due to rain or hot/cold weather. Only severe weather conditions such as heavy rain (which damages the trails), heavy snow, lightning storms or extreme heat waves, may result in a course being rescheduled.

To view our Booking & Cancellation Policy, please click here: PMBIA Policies

TIMING
Please be punctual and arrive ready to listen, learn and ride! Plan your journey to the course location and if in doubt, take extra time to avoid being late. We will take up to an hour for lunch each day, between approximately 12pm – 1pm. Please bring food or money for food, depending on course location. Days typically finish between 4-5pm.

To be eligible for a PMBIA certification, you must attend the complete course for the full three days, totalling 27hrs training (including pre-course reading and worksheet).

EQUIPMENT
For Level 1 Courses in lift-accessed, downhill bike parks (lift up, ride down):
Ideally, the PMBIA recommends a good working, modern “Trail” or “Enduro” bike with 5-6 inches of suspension front and rear, quality disc brakes (180 or 200mm rotors) with downhill or enduro casing tires (to avoid pinch flats associated with harder terrain and higher speeds in bike parks). Although not ideal, due to cadence and climbing exercises when practice teaching, downhill bikes can also be used on a Level 1 course in a lift-accessed, downhill bike park.
A modern helmet that fits correctly and knee pads, are mandatory. Gloves and elbow pads are strongly recommended, but at the discretion of the individual. Full face helmets can be worn, but are not mandatory.

For Level 1 Courses in cross country trail networks (no lifts, ride up and down): 
A modern, good working cross country, trail or enduro bike. Downhill bikes will NOT be suitable for Level 1 courses held in cross country trail networks.
A modern helmet that fits correctly, is mandatory. Knee pads, gloves, and elbow pads are strongly recommended, but at the discretion of the individual.

OTHER EQUIPMENT?
You will need to bring the following things…

• working phone

• pen and paper

• small backpack or hip-pack to carry these things…

  • spare tubes and patches/tubeless puncture kit

  • tire levers and pump

  • multi-tool and chain tool

  • first aid kit

  • rain jacket/spare clothes based on weather

  • water & snacks

  • lunch, or money for lunch

TECH TEACHING

The teaching skills of the candidates will be assessed during a minimum of four, 10-20 minute practice teaching sessions. During these sessions, candidates will have the opportunity to ‘practice teach’ the other members of the group in both trail and open area environments, and receive feedback from the PMBIA Trainer.

ASSESMENT CRITERIA

Candidates should be able to guide students safely in green, blue or black, technical cross country/enduro terrain, while effectively developing their skills and introducing them to advanced maneuvers, showing a clear understanding and application of the Lesson Format, Training Wheel & IDEA Progression teaching models.

Level 2 candidates must be at the ‘consistent’ stage of skill development. Level 3 candidates must be at the ‘autonomous’ stage of skill development.

TECH RIDING

Both Level 2 and 3 candidates will be assessed on their overall riding skills and maneuvers throughout the entire course, in technical cross country and enduro-style terrain, including natural rolls downs, small drops and open area environments. There will not be an isolated ‘ride off’ to assess riding skills. This ensures a more progressive, low-stress environment to learn and progress during the full course.

ASSESMENT CRITERIA

Both Level 2 and 3 TECH candidates should be comfortable climbing and descending intermediate to advanced technical terrain, including rock rolls, rough, loose and/or off camber terrain with roots and rocks, and cornering with speed and flow on flat and bermed corners. TECH instructors must also be able to perform advanced maneuvers including bunnyhops, wheelies, manuals, endos, nose pivots, natural rolls downs and small drops approximately 2 ft high using a variety of techniques.

Level 2 candidates must be at the ‘consistent’ stage of skill development. Level 3 candidates must be at the ‘autonomous’ stage of skill development.

AIR WORKSHEET

Candidates must read the TECH Course Booklet, PMBIA Reference Guide and complete the TECH Worksheet.

ASSESMENT CRITERIA

Completing the reading and worksheet takes approximately 2 – 4 hrs and acts as the written portion of the candidates assessment.

GENERAL QUESTIONS

DO I NEED MY FIRST AID CERTIFICATE TO PARTICIPATE IN THE COURSE?
No. While the PMBIA strongly recommends all instructors be a minimum 40hr Wilderness/Outdoor First Aid certified before working as an instructor or guide, you do not need a first-aid certificate, prior to participating in the course.

CAN I TAKE THE LEVEL 1 AND 2 IN THE SAME YEAR?
The PMBIA recommends teaching for at least a season, between passing the Level 1 and signing up for the Level 2. This helps consolidate all the teaching and guiding skills that are presented on the Level 1 course. The Level 2 also requires more advanced riding skills, which may take some Level 1 instructors one, two or even three years to learn.

A popular option is to attend one of the 2-day AIR or TECH Development Modules, if you are interested in the Level 2 Certification. These are shorter and act as great preparation for the 4-day AIR or TECH Certification Courses by giving participants a taster of the full course content, as well as the Level 2 riding and teaching standards. However, an experienced instructor (for example, perhaps they are a Level 3 Snowboard Instructor) who is also a strong, experienced mountain biker, might be able to successfully pass both Level 1 and 2 Certifications in the same season. Technically, once you have the Level 1 you can sign up straight away for the full, 4-day AIR or TECH Certification Courses to gain the Level 2 Certificate… just make sure you are ready and you take into account the PMBIA’s recommendations!

WHAT’S THE MINIMUM AGE FOR THE COURSE?
The minimum age for Level 2 courses is 17 years old. Guiding and teaching mountain biking is inherently dangerous, especially at the intermediate to advanced level of riding. Because the instructor is legally responsible for other adults and children, this warrants a higher, minimum age for Level 2 certified instructors.

WHAT RIDING SKILLS ARE REQUIRED?
For more details, check out the Level 2 AIR Riding & Teaching Standards on the video tab.

LEVEL 3 PATHWAY
LEVEL 3 REFINED, ADVANCED INSTRUCTOR

The Level 3 Certification requires instructors to complete both the 4-day Air Instructor Course and the 4-day Tech Instructor Course, and the Kids Module. The purpose of this modular approach to the Level 3 Certification is to provide a training pathway that builds a diverse, adaptable and refined, advanced instructor that can truly benefit the mountain bike industry. A PMBIA Level 3 Instructor will be able to work to a high degree of competency in a huge variety of mountain bike programs and industry positions.

Click here to learn more about the Level 3 pathway.

INJURIES
I HURT MYSELF RIDING AFTER I REGISTERED (BUT BEFORE THE COURSE) AND CAN NO LONGER ATTEND THE COURSE. WILL I GET A REFUND?
This may sound like an obvious thing to say, but if you’ve paid your money and signed up for a PMBIA course you should be taking it easy and making smart decisions so you don’t get hurt riding before the course. It is your responsibility to make sure you are healthy and ready to participate.

As an additional precaution against transmission of colds and influenza, we will not allow you to attend a class if you exhibit signs of such illness. NON-ATTENDANCE without notifying us before the start of the course, will result in 100% loss of payment.

Before the start of a course, for any injury or illness related cancellations, a doctor’s note (no later than five (5) business days after your original course date) will be required and you will be offered a 50% refund. Please contact us as soon as possible, before the start of the course, if you think you will not be able to attend due to injury or Illness at info@pmbia.org.

Once the course has started, if you get injured or become ill, there will be no refund offered.

PMBIA courses require minimum numbers to run. They also require many logistics, including trail permits for specific dates, detailed scheduling, travel and accommodation of course staff, and are confirmed two weeks prior to the start date. It is for these reasons this refund-injury policy exists to ensure the not-for-profit PMBIA, and its course participants, are not adversely impacted by last minute cancellations.

I HAVE HAD AN INJURY OR CONCUSSION THAT IS STILL AFFECTING ME. SHOULD I DISCLOSE THIS INFORMATION IN THE REGISTRATION PROCESS AND SHOULD I STILL PARTICIPATE IN THE COURSE?
The PMBIA strongly recommends not registering or attending a course if you are at all unsure of your physical and mental capabilities; this is especially important if you have recently suffered a concussion.

Please let us know if you have any prior injuries, before registering for the course.

You will be riding and thinking (a lot) for multiple days. The PMBIA courses are physically and mentally demanding. Please consult your physician for a professional opinion on your physical condition, should you have any concerns.

To view our Booking & Cancellation Policy, please click here

CROSSING OVER FROM OTHER CERTIFICATIONS
I’M ONLY GOING TO BE COACHING RACERS & ADVANCED RIDERS, CAN I START WITH THE LEVEL 2 COURSE, INSTEAD OF THE LEVEL 1?
No, you’ll still need to start with the PMBIA Level 1 course. “Learn the fundamentals and do them well”. This is the mantra of any professional, career instructor, guide, coach or teacher… and to do this, you need to start with Level 1. The Level 1 course will still provide plenty of tools to help you analyze your riders technique, develop lesson plans and improve their skills.

If you want to learn how to jump, you have to learn how to pump the bike first. If you want to learn how to run, you need to walk first. It’s the same for teaching. The PMBIA has been involved with training instructors for nearly twenty years. We have seen hundreds if not thousands of teachers, instructors and coaches from all walks of life and different sports, over the years.

The commonality, still to this day, is that all the top, most recognized and respected coaches in the world are the ones who started with a basic Level 1 course, continued training and gradually increased their certifications over time.

I’VE BEEN COACHING WITHOUT A CERTIFICATION AND/OR RACING FOR A WHILE, CAN I SKIP THE LEVEL 1 AND GO STRAIGHT TO LEVEL 2?
No. PMBIA Level 1 is a mandatory requirement before signing up for Level 2. The PMBIA also recommends a year of teaching experience after the PMBIA Level 1, before taking Level 2.

The reasons are simple. Expert riding skills or amazing race results do not automatically qualify someone to be an effective instructor or guide. While a few people can, a good rider doesn’t automatically make for a good teacher, just as a good teacher doesn’t automatically make for a good rider.

The PMBIA courses are instructor courses, primarily designed to train people how to teach. Teaching is complex and requires a variety of skills and expertise. Being able to break down skills, communicate effectively, build lesson plans, analyze technique, find solutions and pathways for improvement, empathize with different ability levels, understand and adapt to different learning styles, guide students at the appropriate speed on the appropriate terrain… and so on, it’s a lot to do!

Teaching, like any other profession, is a skill that takes a long time to learn how to do well. Just as you may have spent a long time learning how to ride a bike well, it takes the same time and investment to develop your teaching skills. Imagine it the other way around. Should an expert teacher who has never ridden, skip the Level 1 and go to Level 2? No, they naturally need to spend the time learning about and building their riding skills, just as a racer might need to start from the beginning to develop and learn about teaching skills.

The other reason is the PMBIA Level 2 Certification builds directly from the PMBIA Level 1 course content and materials. Even if you can or have coached in the past, without knowing and practicing the specific PMBIA Level 1 content, the Level 2 will be even more challenging. As such, the continuation of knowledge from Level 1 to 2 is paramount to candidates gaining the most from the PMBIA training.

The PMBIA has seen many world cup racers, pro’s and professional teachers or coaches on the PMBIA Level 1 courses over the years. These people, despite their incredible resumes or achievements, have all found the PMBIA Level 1 a truly valuable experience.

WHY DO I NEED TO START WITH PMBIA LEVEL 1, IF I’M ALREADY IMBA/BICP CERTIFIED?
The PMBIA Level 1 course is more akin to the IMBA/BICP Level 2 course. This is also the same for other MTB certifications out there. The PMBIA have had many course participants over the years from other programs, and have consistently found that even Level 2’s from other certifications still benefit most from taking the PMBIA Level 1, first. Teaching mountain biking is inherently dangerous so the PMBIA expects more from our Level 1 Instructors, to ensure they deliver the safest, most effective lessons possible.

The other thing to consider is not just Level 1, but also Level 2. The PMBIA Level 2 certification is an advanced instructor training program and requires instructors to be knowledgeable and consistent with the teaching methodologies and materials from the PMBIA Level 1 course. Because the PMBIA Level 2 builds directly from the PMBIA Level 1, without that prior knowledge, people struggle to come into the PMBIA Level 2 and be successful.

The continuation of knowledge from Level 1 to 2 is therefore paramount to candidates gaining the most from the PMBIA training. We want anyone crossing over to PMBIA to gain the most from their training with us and it’s with this logic and our previous experience, that these recommendations have been formed.

The PMBIA has always worked hard to raise the standards for mountain bike instructor and guide training, and this philosophy still drives us today.

TBC