The word “facilitate” is Latin in origin (facilis), and means “to make easy or easier.”Group cycling leaders aretypicallyguidesratherthan instructors. They guide the class through the activity, making it easier for participants to follow. Facilitators need to be positive coaches for their students.
A “coach,” in the context of athletics or as a provider of private lessons (acting coach), originated in university slang out of “stage-coach” (one who carries you along). The word “positive,” in the context of facilitative learning, is characterized by affirmation (to strengthen). Thus, when the words “positive” and “coach” are combined, yet another definition of facilitator is produced: a person who carries participants along, strengthening them in the process.
Throughout the group cycling class, facilitators should:
* Demonstrate a reasonable, flexible and caring attitude.
* Create a state of mutual respect to make participants feel safe and unthreatened.
* Demonstrate friendliness, consideration and enthusiasm.
* Demonstrate a strong understanding of thesubject.
* Create a low-stress learning environment.
* Present “key points” of information, as needed.
* Demonstrate effective skills and techniques.
* Help participants develop effective skills and techniques.
* Help participants enjoy the class.
Three principles for facilitation.Experience has demonstrated that when facilitators keep three basic principles in mind, learning is easier and remains enjoyable for participants and thefacilitator.
1.Do not hover.During class, the facilitator should circulate among the class, but shouldnot linger or “hover.” Instead, the facilitator should move around the room using appropriate praise and reinforcing correct skill. This positive coaching will help strengthen the participant’s self-confidence. Facilitators should prevent participants from repeating incorrect procedures. Corrections of skills by the facilitator should be done in a supportive manner.
2. Do not step over the edge.This principle applies primarily to facilitators with credentials beyond the basics. Having facilitators with special training and experience canoffer a wonderful perspective; however the downside is that it is easy for them to “step over the edge” (i.e., ride beyond the class’ fitness level or use undefined terminology). If instructors step over the edge, the club risks losing its participants.
3.Know there is no one way.Facilitators have or have not been certified in a particular group cycling program, and they have unique and distinctive differences in style and presentation. However, the use of standard techniques and terminologies will provide consistency and safety.
Facilitator checklist. Group cycling instructors should use the following guidelines:
1. They should arrive 10 minutes early to class to greet everyone and learn theirnames. They should also make an effort to learn two names each week, and vow to learn something more about someone in every class.
2. Always introduce themselvesand explain or describe what their goals are for the class.
3. Always ask, “Is this anyone’s first class?” or “Does anyone have an injury or limitation I should be aware of?”
4. Review proper form and technique. Facilitators will enhance participants’ execution of the exercises, plusincrease their kinesthetic awareness.
5. Make eye contact with every person at least once during the workout. This lets participants know that the instructor is aware of their existence and is watching their form.
6. Arm class members with knowledge. Instructors should offer fitness tips, explain why theyuse certain positions, tempos and phrases, and help particpants to execute correctly.
7. Change their routine and music regularly. This helps the facilitator and the class to achieve a more bal-anced workout.
8. Be a “coach” instead of an instructor. This allows the facilitator to personalize the program for all participants’ needs, and tooffer modifications when necessary.
9. Be consistently positive, upbeat and professional. There is no room for mood swings.
10. When possible, instructors shouldlet participants know ahead of time when they won’t be there to teach a class.
12. Always thank your participants. Facilitators should let class members know that they appreciate the time and effort it took for them to attend the class.
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