Level 3 - Mountain Bike Coach (MBC)

1. Course Description

The Mountain Bike Coach MBC course is a modular course to assess a candidate’s ability to coach and lead technical riding at advanced levels including racing and physical performance. Module one is a two- day assessment course. Day 1 Guiding day and day 2 Coaching day. Module two is the successful completion of modules from the ABCC Coach Level 3 Award. An MBC Training Course is recommended.

2. Aim

The aim of the course is to train and assess TTL’s or equivalent candidates to lead and coach advanced cycling activities on and off road.The main emphasis of the course is on coaching and developing a coached rider’s performance in a variety of mountain bike disciplines and environments.

It is also aimed at training and assessing the candidate’s theoretical and practical ability in cycle coaching through the completion of the ABCC Coach Level 3 Award or equivalent.

3. Pre Course Standards

A background of advanced level leading and coaching is essential, with TTL or equivalent and 40 logged off road rides. Coaching and leading groups on varied advanced terrain and mountain bike environments including night riding and overnight journeys, with personal riding in at least three major UK geographical biking areas.
Overseas experience is expected, and the candidate must be a competent Level 3 in personal cycling skills, and be proficient in a hill-walking environment.

4. Liabilities and Limitations

The Mountain Bike Coach (MBC) may guide and coach, on all cycle permitted areas or unmarked cycle trails, including multi day journeys, overseas, and skills parks, with a risk assessment. Terrain can be up to and including Severe but must not be defined as mountainous or remote unless technically proficient in that environment.

Furthermore the Coach must be operating within the limitations of their current logbook experience with a maximum instructor to student ratio of 1-6. An appropriate and valid first aid certificate and insurance must be held.

5. Course Outcomes

On receiving a pass it is recommended that the candidate gains further Coaching experience, (using their Action Plan), before applying for the Association of British Mountainbike Guides (ABMG) course. A defer must apply for a re-assessment after completion of an Action Plan, and a fail must re-sit the course after a minimum time of 6 months and completion of an Action Plan.

All candidates will receive an immediate verbal feedback, followed by a written report and Action Plan.

6. Transfer of awards

Candidates with equivalent qualifications from other awarding bodies i.e. BC, MBLA, CTC, MIAS, Mountain Bike Leader Awards, may apply to transfer their awards to MBCUK.