Yes, I do a lot to prepare for my classes. I spend hours making playlists. I read articles on physiology and innovative cueing. You do it too. But there’s one thing I do that I think makes a huge difference in my coaching. And maybe you don’t agree with its importance. Are you ready?
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Take out a blank sheet of paper. Write down what you believe are your strongest attributes as an instructor. Got them? Now, what happens when you receive comments about them that aren’t exactly positive? How do you respond?Read more…
In their book, “The Power of Moments: Why Certain Experiences Have Extraordinary Impact,” the Heath Brothers describe how certain experiences leave a lasting impact and change us. These can happen anywhere. Have you encountered such a moment as an instructor; an experience that changed you? How might you create these, either for yourself or for others?
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As instructors, we become accustomed to being the center of attention. Even if we’re never totally comfortable with it, it becomes routine. We implicitly agree when we take the mic that we will be evaluated by our participants. But what goes through your head (and your heart) when you’re REALLY being evaluated on your ability to lead? Are you open to constructive feedback?Read more…
You’ve heard the saying “by failing to prepare, you prepare to fail,” right? Every second counts when you teach early-morning classes—what do you do when alarm clocks fail? Whether you rise before the sun or teach as it sets, this post by dawn-patrol coach Jackie Maniscalco can help ensure you’re prepared for success!Read more…
One of my students told me he thought another rider’s seat was too low. He was right. As a bonus, the correct setup helped her increase her wattage. On one hand, I wondered how I missed this; on the other, I was so grateful he felt comfortable enough to tell me. Here are a few of my reflections on this incident. Read more…
Jackie Cohen Maniscalco had one of those 3-minute large group auditions we wrote about recently at a major chain club. In fact, Jackie’s request for help in the ICA Facebook group is what inspired me to write the article. Jackie had an interesting experience at her audition and agreed to share it with you all. You know, in case you might ever experience one like it where you actually get less than 3 minutes to show what you know!Read more…
Jackie Maniscalco replies to a recent article about wrestling with the guilt of teaching cycle class after pregnancy posted in the ICA Facebook group, and explains why you shouldn’t have mom guilt for taking time out for yourself. After all, you can’t pour from an empty cup!Read more…