International Bike Fitter Magazine - January 2022 (Issue 4)

INTERNATIONAL

BIKE FITTER I B F I

M A G A Z I N E

JANUARY 2022 • ISSUE FOUR

A NEW ROUTE FOR BIKE FITTING EDUCATION Setting out plans for industry-wide standards in our education special

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Contents

7

8

10

HOW THE PANDEMIC

MAKE YOUR

HAS CHANGED

A NEW DAWN IN BIKE

ONLINE PROFILE

CYCLING SHOE NEEDS

FIT EDUCATION

STAND OUT

Vice-President’s letter

2

Education FAQ

20

EDUCATION SPECIAL: Creating a new system

Wahoo Speedplay

23

for bike fitting education

10

Tried and Tested

24

The common syllabus explained

14

Meet the Education Committee

26

Cafe Stop - Kwanchai Nualchanchy

16

Education provider profiles

29

New products

17

The importance of posture

34

Online learning explained

19

2022 JANUARY ISSUE 4

International Bike Fitter • Issue Four • January 2022 •

EDITOR’S LETTER

I

t’s with great pleasure that I get to

brought about by the pandemic and the

welcome you to issue four of

ensuing explosion in demand for bikes. We

International Bike Fitter, which is

now have an almost unprecedented amount of

dedicated to education.

I know it’s been a long time coming, but

new cyclists exploring the limits of what they can do on a bike. How comfortable and

the IBFI team has been working tirelessly to

effective they are on their bikes will be a huge

get everything ready to be able to launch in

part of whether they stick with cycling or not in

this issue; I cannot tell you how excited I am

the long run.

to see the fruits of these labours.

TURNING POINT As we welcome in 2022, the industry is at a point where we all still face challenges

We have an exciting opportunity as bike fitters to help educate a new generation of cyclists. So what better time to ensure that we’re all singing off the same hymn sheet — or at least from the same book?

I don’t think it’s too dramatic to say that

GLOBAL EDUCATION

harmonising education within the industry is a

To this end, we are launching a new Common Syllabus for bike fitting education,

fundamental step to creating a respected

creating a globally recognised modular

profession.

education system. The syllabus will continue

If I think back to when I first started fitting,

to be developed by our education committee,

there were no educational standards that our

who we get to introduce in this issue.

clients understood or could compare to any of our peers. I think this is why

We also feature profiles of the education providers who are evolving their own courses in-line with the new syllabus, so you will be able to see which courses globally will already get you on-track to a new qualification.

clients started quantifying fitters

H

armonising education is

a fundamental step to creating a respected profession

by what type of technology was used, rather than the level of education and experience of the person conducting their fit.

Peppered amongst all of this education information we have your favourite usual IBFI magazine features and products

Obviously, there will

reviews, including a catch up with

also be online elements to these courses so that we can ensure the

the product development team at Wahoo, a

depth of knowledge in new students. To help

feature on how the pandemic has affected foot

facilitate this, we have created an online

size (yes, really), and a Cafe Stop with Thai

learning management system, which will be

fitter Kwanchai Nualchanchy.

explained in more detail in this issue.

So, with no further ado, welcome to our education issue. Have fun, look around and

INCLUSIVE

don’t forget to do your homework!

All good education is inclusive, which is why we are also asking for applicants to join

Lee Prescott

the IBFI’s education committee. Regardless of

IBFI Vice President

where you are in your career, this is your opportunity to get involved in shaping the future of bike fitting.

International Bike Fitter is published by the International Bike Fitting Institute (IBFI) Unit 9, Hatton Technology Park, Dark Lane, Warwickshire, CV35 8XB, England Contacts: Andy Brooke (IBFI President): andy@ibfi-certification.com Lee Prescott (IBFI Vice President): lee@ibfi-certification.com Designed and produced by Caroline Stocks Communications • www.carolinestocks.co.uk

ONE SITE. HUNDREDS OF PRODUCTS.

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*Not all brands available in all geographic locations

How could Covid affect cycling shoes?

The global pandemic has changed lots about the cycling industry — but could changes to cycling shoes be an another unexpected outcome?

IBFI President and UK bike fitter Andy Brooke tries his theory out for size.

H

ere’s a fun little thought experiment. How

work from home, they will be more likely to wear

will Covid impact cycling shoes? And no,

comfier, wider options like slippers or trainers — or

for once it’s a not a supply chain issue.

often won’t wear shoes at all. There’s lots of

And whilst it might lead to increased sales, it’s not

research out there about walking barefoot and foot

related to the global explosion in cycling that Covid

width. Cultures that predominantly wear sandals

helped create. Give up?

or are barefoot have much wider feet than those

I think we all see a lot of customers with shoes

that are customarily shod (not a typo, just not a

that are far too narrow, and that trend may

common word. When you wear clothes,

increase over the next few months and years. The pandemic has resulted in a lot of people working from home, and that shift looks set to continue long after Covid restrictions ease around the world.

Companies have found ways to work

you’re clothed, when you wear shoes,

“Spending more time barefoot actually widens your feet.”

you’re shod).

Widening feet Spending more time barefoot actually widens your feet. So, working from home

around not being in the office anymore,

and not wearing dress shoes might

and it’s rumoured that several big

actually result in a lot of people ending up

employers are considering making that

with wider feet. Don’t be surprised if

switch a permanent one. Fewer staff in

people say their work shoes feel a little

the office, means employers can rent

tight when they returned after Covid, it’s

smaller office buildings and save money. So, while

not uncommon. But given that cycling shoes are

working from home might not have been too

often very narrow as well, you might find a lot of

popular with many bosses before Covid, it looks

customers are now complaining of foot pain in

like it’s here to stay for a while yet.

shoes that never used to cause them issues.

Unless foot width is something you record and can Swapping dress shoes for slippers

go back and compare, it’s unlikely you’ll be able to

So how does working from home impact cycling

quantify the change, but if your clients are noticing

shoes? When men and women go into an office,

a difference, this might be the reason. Let’s hope

they often wear dress shoes or heels, which aren’t

the industry reacts and we see a lot more wide

the widest shoes in the world. But when people

fitting options from brands in the future.

MAKE YOUR ONLINE PROFILE STAND OUT When it comes to advertising your business and reaching new customers, Google Business Profiles is a simple tool all bike fit businesses can utilise. Ben Wall of dotwall web design shares his top tips for optimising your own listing, and explains why reviews matter.

T

hese days, most people use Google to research any purchase, whether it's a new

3 things you can do right now to

TV, a pair of trainers, or indeed, a bike fit.

optimise your listing

The main questions that potential customers have are: Is there someone close to me that can serve

Business Information

their needs? And if so, are they good? To help

Your profile needs to be updated with current

answer those questions, Google will always find

photos, website, phone, and physical address

the three most relevant businesses and place them

information. In a business bio, you need to

at the top of the organic search results. This makes

describe what your business is, what it does,

having an up-to-date online profile Google is able

and make sure you use keywords that describe

to search for vital for any business.

the services you offer and where you offer them. For example: "BikefitPros are expert bike

What is Google Business Profile?

fitters in London. We offer a variety of bike

GBP is a free service provided by Google that

fitting services...". You're allowed 750

allows businesses to share information about their

characters for your bio.

services, opening hours, contacts, and business updates. Google Maps also integrates GBP listings

Reviews, Reviews, Reviews

to give the customers directions as and when

Nowadays, people want to know that someone

necessary.

has already used the product or service they plan to purchase so they know they're making

'Bike fitter near me'

an informed decision. Google understands this

This is the term most commonly used by people

as ‘social proof’. As an example, imagine there

looking for a bike fit. If you want to find new

are three Italian restaurants in your town. Each

customers for your bike fitting business, you need

restaurant has a GBP listing, has up-to-date

to optimise your GBP for these keywords.

information, and has good photos.

From Google zero to hero The first restaurant on the list has ten reviews at 3/5, the second has 20 reviews with a rating of

Graeme at GV Pro Bike Fit in Liverpool, UK, has

4/5, and the third restaurant on the list has 100

over 50 five-star reviews on his GBO listing and

reviews of 5-stars.

tops the Google rankings in his area after

Which one would you choose to eat at? 9/10

approaching dotwall to help him create a Google-

people pick the restaurant with 100, 5-star

optimised website. The

reviews.

result is a steady

With bike fitting, the situation is the same. You

stream of enquiries

might be the best bike fitter in your country on paper, but if there is a local bike fitter with five 5star reviews, and you don't have any, more than likely you've already lost that customer.

If you don’t have any Google reviews yet, reach out to your last 20 customers and ask them for a

through his website about his services, securing him customers he might not have otherwise

review. Explain you're building your online

have gained.

reputation and a review would mean a great deal

“I read through the

to you.

IBFI quarterly magazine and came

Business updates

across an offer from

You can post updates about your business on

Ben at dotwall. He was offering some discounts on

GBP, just like you do on Instagram and

websites for bike fitters, so I gave him a call,” says

Facebook. By posting business news, bike fitting

Graeme.

tips, or updates on your listing, you will expand your profile and provide a more enjoyable read for people searching for your services. Also, Google will recognise that your listing is active, and as a result, will likely rank you higher than the competition.

“As a cyclist, he knew exactly what I wanted and quickly mocked up a website homepage. I was genuinely impressed and proud to think that this was my website and people would be looking at it!"

Fast forward almost a year, and Graeme says Ben

The more you get involved with your Google

continues to be one of his main allies in attracting

Business Profile, making sure reviews keep

people to place a booking for a bike fit.

coming in, the more Google will shine a light on

“He is very good at looking at a website from a

your website. And when you have an excellent

customer's perspective and tweaks things

looking website that's designed to convert, you'll

accordingly,” he says.

see the enquiries coming in!

“Most people have heard of the term 'SEO' and

For more help and to enquire about website

making your website 'optimised' for Google

design and SEO, visit dotwall.co.uk. IBFI

searches, which might seem like a difficult task.

members receive a 20% discount on all services.

“However, it's easier than you think, especially with the aid of Google Business Profile.

“Having people search for ‘Bike fit near me’ and my

Top Tip: Publer allows you to link five social media platforms (including Google), allowing you to post once to five different platforms – you can even schedule your posts to go out throughout the week.

website appearing near the top of the first page is the most critical aspect for me now, because that customer is probably within a 20-mile radius — and that's exactly who I'm trying to attract.”

A NEW DAWN IN BIKE FIT EDUCATION

As part of its continued efforts to improve bike fitting, the IBFI has joined forces with fit educators around the world to create a common education standard to help professionalise the industry. IBFI President Andy Brooke explains the exciting changes, and what they’ll mean for IBFI members.

T

here are some big changes

they start? Who offered the best courses?

coming in the world of bike fitting

How many courses would they need to do to

education. Over the next few pages,

become a good fitter?

we’re going to run you through what we

As an industry, we stagnated. Fitters found it

consider to be the biggest step towards

easy to reach a moderately competent level

professionalising bike fitting that we’ve ever

but very difficult to progress any further. No

undertaken. And it wouldn’t have been

matter who they started training with, there

possible with the support of a great

were rarely more than 6-8 days of

group of bike fit educators, but

training available across multiple

more about them later.

courses, and if they wanted to then

switch to another provider, they were First, a little background

forced to go back to their very first

Before the IBFI was established back in 2015, there was no parity between bike fitting education courses, and very little trust between education providers.

That created a very difficult environment for new and early-career fitters. Where should

course. This meant there was a huge financial disincentive to continue learning. Once a fitter had done a few courses, the return on investment to go back and work through the different levels of courses with a new provider was virtually nothing – a lot of money spent on course

fees, travel, accommodation and even loss of

types of courses to compare easily to

earnings through not fitting, often resulted in

traditional academia, and across 38 different

learning the same things in a slightly different

countries. The European Qualifications

way.

Framework (EQF) is an 8-level system that

The IBFI worked hard to encourage

runs from high-school standard courses right

education and improvement but ultimately it

through to PhD-level.

resulted in some fitters collecting credits by

It’s been used extensively in sports and

simply attending multiple entry-level courses

complimentary-medical fields, like Sports

from different providers. They weren’t

Therapy (practitioners are similar to Athletic

learning anything new or developing their

Trainers in the US), Sports Massage and

skills, just relearning the same

Personal Training. It made perfect

basic things. It was time for a

sense for the IBFI to follow a similar

change and other industries could

path. Our existing levels could be

help show us the way.

transferred over to the first four

Looking outside of bike fitting Bike fitting education is classed as vocational training, which means it’s not an academic qualification gained through a university or sitting through lectures; it’s hands-on training that requires skill as well as

levels of the EQF, meaning our courses would grow in difficulty from high-school equivalent courses at level 1, all the way up to level 4 with an equivalent complexity to the first year of a bachelor’s or undergraduate degree.

knowledge. Thankfully the European Union

The need for a common syllabus

(EU) has a history of great vocational training,

Once we’d decided upon a framework for a

and it created a system that allows these

new education system, we needed to agree

BIKE FIT TRAINING IS HANDS-ON, REQUIRING SKILL AS WELL AS KNOWLEDGE

as an industry to use a common syllabus that

Syllabus creation

would allow us to fully implement it.

Shifting over to the new education system

It was important that there wasn’t duplication

would already bring significant benefits, like

between levels, and that each new course

reducing the need to duplicate learning when

taught different and exciting material. That

switching between providers, making the

way we could be sure that students gained a

qualification progression much clearer, and

significant knowledge increase after each

mirroring professional standards in other

level of training, meaning we could

industries. It might even lead to bike

be confident that a higher level

fitting qualifications being recognised

fitter was better trained than a

by traditional academic institutions

lower level fitter. This structure

like colleges and universities.

would also ensure that fitters have

But it was also an opportunity for the

a clear path through a well-

IBFI to strengthen what was taught,

rounded, complete education without having to duplicate material.

Standardising quality The other reason we needed a common syllabus was to

‘The common syllabus will be managed by a global education committee who will develop it and ensure it is owned and run by the industry’

both in the topics covered and the level of detail. The IBFI, in consultation with experienced education providers around the world, started out by listing all the topics we’d like a level 4 fitter to have training on, and then divided those

standardise the quality and level of

logically between the four levels of

qualifications. Qualifications within

courses to create a common

the EQF are recognised by all providers,

syllabus.

meaning students could attend a level 1

The plan is for this common syllabus to be

course with one provider and move on to

managed by a new global education

level 2 with another. This completely removes

committee, who will develop it over time and

the need to drop back to entry-level courses

ensure it is owned and run by the industry as

and hopefully makes it easier and cheaper for

a whole, not something the IBFI handed

students to work their way up to the higher

down.

levels of training and certification. The way this works in other industries is through the implementation of common assessment protocols at each level. If students have to cover the same core materials and pass the same assessments regardless of who offered the course, providers can be confident that they’re ready to move on to the next level.

That’s exactly what we’re implementing here.

Online learning Covid created a huge drive for online learning, and we couldn’t ignore that. With bike fitting being a balance of skill and knowledge, it seemed logical to split the training between online and in person. The more academic, knowledge-based topics could be delivered online, reducing the time

sat in front of PowerPoint presentations

of education providers, we ended up with a

during in-person courses and freeing up more

great and balanced syllabus that was

time for practical, skill-based sessions. All the

agreed by over a dozen education

online modules will be delivered through the

providers.

same Learning Management System,

Over the next four pages you’ll be able to

managed by the IBFI and a team of

see the structure of the syllabus. We’ve

independent assessors, meaning every

stripped out some of the detail so that it

student — regardless of provider — can

didn’t require another magazine entirely just

easily be filtered into the same assessment.

for the syllabus, but hopefully you’ll be able

This allows the IBFI to shift its role into that of

to see the topics covered and the

a true professional body; overseeing the

progression offered through the different

quality of education received, and ensuring

levels. A level 4 fitter really should be able to

that all students have to pass the same

tackle almost anything!

standard of assessment regardless of course

Later in this issues we’ll explain how the

provider. As always, the IBFI will work to

syllabus will evolve and who will manage it,

support existing education providers, and will

along with how the online elements will

not be delivering educational courses.

work, and how we’ll ‘grandfather-in’ existing experienced fitters. We know this is a big

A balanced syllabus

change, but we’re really excited about the

The first draft syllabus was started in 2019

potential for this approach to raise standards

and presented to the first few education

and create an industry we can all be proud

providers in 2020. By working through their

of. If you have any questions or comments,

feedback, making improvements, and doing

get in touch at andy@ibfi-certification.com.

the same thing with each subsequent group

GETTING TO GRIPS WITH THE NEW EDUCATION SYLLABUS

Recognised education providers around the world will be offering courses in-line with the new common syllabus, making it easier for fitters to progress throughout their career.

Here, we set out what you should expect to learn at each education level.

T

he new common syllabus retains the four

chunks to ensure it can easily fit around other

levels of IBFI’s current certification system

commitments. The in-person courses will usually be

but splits each level into two modules – one

delivered across three days, although this is entirely

delivered online through a new multivendor

up to the course provider.

education website — to be launched soon — and

As you’ll see from the tables here, the breadth of

one delivered in person by recognised education

content is far greater than anything currently

providers.

available, and creates a very clear path for fitters

Each module consists of around 24 hours of

looking to progress from entry-level, early career

learning. The online content can be completed at a

practitioners to advanced, well-rounded

time to suit the student, and even be split into

professionals.

An introduction to bike fitting, providing all the skills a retail fitter needs to carry out a daflkj

basic fit

Online module:

In-person module

Lesson 1: Introduction to Anatomy

Postural cues of bad fit, identification of a

Lesson 2: Pre-fit Interview

functional saddle position window (fore-aft and

Lesson 3: Introductory pre-fit screening

height), identification of a functional handlebar

Lesson 4: Bike Measurements

position window, intro to cleat positioning, intro to insole selection, basic mechanic skills, and bike sizing.

Builds on the knowledge gained in level 1 and digs into more discipline-specific detail

Online module:

In-person module

Lesson 1: The business of bike fitting

Crank length selection, intermediate physical

Lesson 2: Intro to cycling biomechanics

assessment and clinical reasoning, intermediate

Lesson 3: Common cycling discomfort

foot evaluation, foot-pedal interface, fitting for TT

Lesson 4: Intro to bike fitting technology

and Triathlon, fitting for Road, fitting for MTB, and gender-specific fit issues.

Expands a fitter’s knowledge of anatomy and biomechanics, while focusing on lkjlkjljlkk contact point selection Online module:

In-person module

Lesson 1: Intermediate anatomy

Saddle selection, shoe selection, advanced

Lesson 2: Cycling injuries

insole selection, pedal systems and float,

Lesson 3: Intermediate cycling biomechanics

handlebar and cockpit selection, advanced onbike visual cues, advanced foot evaluation, and weight distribution/centre of mass.

Provides everything a fitter could need, including custom frame design, fitting para……

athletes and exposure to all the technologies commonly used in fitting.

Online module:

In-person module

Lesson 1: Custom frame design

Motion capture, pressure mapping, force pedals,

Lesson 2: Reviewing scientific literature

electromyography (EMG), aerodynamics,

Lesson 3: Teaching, mentoring, and assessing

physiology of position, off-bike exercises, strength and conditioning for cycling, para-fit and fitting at the extremes.

IBFI cafe stop: Kwanchai Nualchanchy Thai fitter Kwanchai Nualchanchy, of Velocity, Chiang Mai, braves the hot seat in our latest IBFI fitter profile.

When did you decide you were going to be

can finish in 10 minutes!

a bike fitter? I had so many questions about

How did you get to where you are

cycling when I started cycling a long, long

today? Keep learning and cycling,

time ago. When I learned about bike fitting, I

consistency.

really felt a strong passion for it.

How do you unwind? Go cycling in a new

Who’s the most famous person you’ve ever met in your job? I can’t tell you, I’m fitting him!

place.

If you had to get a job outside of cycling, what would it be? A high school teacher.

What’s your favourite event in the cycling calendar? All of the Spring classics.

What’s the biggest frustration in your job? When you start learning and realise how little you know.

What’s the best thing about what you do? Making

Tell us a something not many people know about you I am not good at all ball sports.

What’s the most difficult thing about being a bike fitter? Focusing on every detail.

What’s the most useful tool or technology you work with? Pressure mapping.

What website can you easily waste an

customers happy.

What’s the toughest fit you’ve ever done? A client with an injury related to their nervous system.

What’s the best thing about

hour on? cyclingtips.com What bike fit qualifications do you have? I have a long list of them!

What course, book or websites do you think every fitter should check

working in cycling? Travelling.

What’s the strangest thing in your fit studio? Clients

out? science-cycling.org/ What advice would you give to someone just starting out in bike fit? Always ask questions.

thinking bike fitting

Espresso time

How do you take your coffee? Cappuccino – nothing extra What was the last book you read? World economy 1,000 year What pedals do you ride? Speedplay What saddle do you use? Specialized Romin evo mirror What’s your dream bike? Still in my dreams!

Favourite place to cycle? Iceland Favourite pro rider? Laurent Jalabert

NEW PRODUCTS International Bike Fitter shares some of the newest tools and tech from across the global bike fit industry.

FORM Modular Leg Length Shim System These new shims from FORM (pictured, below left) have

Ryden Bike Geometry Tool

an impressive amount of thinking behind them. Available in 2mm and 3mm thicknesses they can then be pinned

This inexpensive tool (pictured, above)

together to create a full range of thicknesses from 2mm to

uses the power of your smartphone and

10mm or beyond. They are also precurved and chamfered for easy

its in built inclinometer to work out the XY dimensions of a rider’s position.

cleat entry.

It’s in the development phase right now,

More details at www.form-

but a full test will be appearing in the

bikefitting.com

next issue of International Bike Fitter.

Kits from RRP £12

RRP £45 plus P&P

Deda Jet One extensions With a lot of the world tour teams now using 3D-printed extensions on their TT bikes, costing into five figures, it looked like the amateur rider wouldn’t be able to benefit from this level of aerodynamics.

These Deda Extensions (pictured, right) fill that gap though, and are shaped perfectly to conform to a rider’s arm, reducing any negative pressure zone.

The clip-on version can be set to any angle on a regular base bar, giving full versatility for any position.

RRP £759.99

Interested in getting your product featured?

Send details to lee@ibfi-certification.com Being featured on this page is not an endorsement by the IBFI

A NEW WAY TO LEARN

The IBFI’s new e-learning platform will offer fitters greater flexibility when it comes to choosing education providers and breaking their learning into bite-sized chunks.

E

-learning has been growing for years. It’s a

Whilst the online content could be delivered in

great way to fit courses around your busy

person — and that’s an option some education

lifestyle and take things at your own pace.

providers may explore in the future — the in-person

But it has its limitations, especially for subjects that

content just isn’t well-suited to the online learning

are a little more practical. It can be hard to learn a

environment.

new skill online, when you can only see things from

The skill of bike fitting is much better learnt by

one direction, and you often can’t ask questions

seeing and feeling it in person. But that doesn’t

and interact with the instructor.

mean we can’t learn a lot of the knowledge-based

The pandemic really pushed e-learning into the

material online. That’s where the IBFI’s new e-

spotlight, as travel was almost impossible and

learning platform comes in.

group classes inside just weren’t safe. Thankfully,

masks, PPE and vaccines are all playing an

IBFI e-learning platform

important role in getting things slowly back to

Our new website will be split into five sections, one

normal. But e-learning is here to stay, and bike

for each of the four course levels, and one for

fitting needs to adapt.

additional CPD courses that sit outside the

That’s why the new common syllabus allows for

common syllabus. Unlike a standard e-learning

half of each module to be delivered online. As part

platform, ours is programmed to know which

of the new system, the IBFI will be providing

courses meet which criteria — meaning you only

recognised education providers with an e-learning

need to attend one course from level 1 to unlock

platform to list their courses on the web.

the courses available at level 2. And with

everything being on the same platform, we can easily manage the assessment process and ensure every course within the same level uses the same assessment.

You won’t be able to just sit at home and rattle through the online content though; after completing the online part of a level, you’ll need to complete the in-person component before the system will unlock the next round of online courses.

• Support live chat features allowing regular support sessions with instructors • Allow students to rate courses using a 5-star system • Use the same login as your IBFI account (coming soon) • Allow downloadable content like course brochures, presentations and notes • Include community chat where you can discuss

We’re also working behind the scenes to update

your learning with other students

our main IBFI website. There’ll be a single login

• Offer courses in multiple languages

across both sites and data on qualifications will be

• Offer additional CPD courses on topics outside

shared straight onto the find-a-fitter map. Within 24 hours of completing a course, the e-learning platform will update your map listing to reflect your new level of certification. You’ll also be able to edit your own map listing more easily and add more photos and information.

The new e-learning platform will:

the standard syllabus This new website will help both fitters and fit educators: Fitters across the world will more easily be able to access additional, high-quality education content that counts towards their IBFI certification.

Meanwhile, fit educators will have a platform to take their courses global and access a broader range of

• Handle all course payments

students — not just those who live locally or are

• Automatically grade assessments for level 1

willing to travel.

courses

The website will be launching in the coming weeks

• Issue certificates upon passing the assessment

so keep an eye on IBFI’s social media channels for

• Easily track your progress between sessions

more details. It’ll also contain a section for

• Allow for course material to be added as text,

Continued Professional Development (CPD)

slides, videos and even streamed content

courses, allowing for a wide range of topics to be covered.

FAQ

A

s you’ve no doubt gathered from the

370 hours, while Diplomas cover courses over

previous pages, the new IBFI education

370 hours.

syllabus is a big step up from anything

currently available in the bike fitting industry. It covers a broad range of topics and progresses through to subjects rarely taught but that are incredibly important for inclusivity, like ParaCycling. Everyone should be able to experience the joy of riding a bike, and that module in particular is a huge step in that direction.

But it’s a big and complex change, so we’re

You may have noticed through the syllabus pages that each module has a number of learning hours associated with it. Guided learning is actual contact time, while total learning includes selfguided learning, like additional reading around the subject, going over your notes and time spent thinking about and processing the new concepts.

The IBFI will work towards becoming an issuing

sure you’ll have lots of questions.

body under the QCF, meaning that

Here’s a quick guide to some of the

students who complete all four levels will

more common questions we’ve been

be able to receive a Diploma in bike fitting.

asked so far.

If we manage to get to that stage, colleges and universities across Europe (and

Why are the courses so much

hopefully several other parts of the world)

bigger?

will recognise the qualification and may

The European Qualification

offer university credits in

Framework (EQF) helps us define the difficulty

acknowledgement of recognised prior learning

of a course and the level of complexity, but it

(RPL).

doesn’t mention length. You can do a short course at a higher level, or a long course at a

How are the courses split?

lower level. So we decided to follow the

Each level is split into two modules, each with

Qualifications and Credit Framework (QCF),

equivalent to 3 days guided learning. One module

which splits courses into three categories:

will be more knowledge-based, and delivered

Award, Certificate and Diploma. Awards are any

online, while the other module will be more skill-

courses from 10-120 hours of learning,

based and delivered in-person.

Certificates cover courses between 120 and

The online content will be delivered by

In-person courses will be assessed by your

education providers on a learning platform

instructors, with the external moderation

hosted by the IBFI, which be launched at the

mentioned above. Instructors will be trained in

beginning of 2022. Students will be able to view

what to assess and how, and the student will

courses by their preferred provider by visiting

be asked to produce a folder of supporting

their landing page, or view all courses by

evidence. This may include questions and

visiting the homepage for that course level.

answers, photos of practical assessments, and

Regardless of which provider you choose,

explanations of decision-making processes.

every student at the same level will attend the same assessment, and only after passing that assessment will you be allowed to progress to the next level.

Level 4 certification may include in-person peer-review. This could become part of an assessment day tagged on the back of a conference or event, or be done virtually. We’re

Will you assess the in-person courses as

working hard to ensure that level 4 certification

well?

is the highest possible standard and something

Yes. You may have noticed there’s a teaching,

fitters will be proud to achieve.

assessing and mentoring lesson at level 4. All

Will this replace the old certification

courses delivered in-person must have at least

system?

one instructor who has attended this lesson, and all in-person assessments can only be carried out by instructors that have attended that lesson.

The IBFI will then manage an external moderation programme, where roughly 1 in 10 course attendees will be

Long-term, yes, but there’ll be a grace period of at least two years where experienced fitters can still apply for certification based on the old credits system.

How will the new system effect existing and experienced fitter?

selected at random to have their assessment

Existing IBFI members will retain their current

material from the in-person courses re-marked

certification level and be given time to work

by an external and independent assessor. This

their way through the online content at each

ensures that all course providers are assessing

level up to their current level of certification.

to the same standards.

This must be completed before they can

What will the assessments look like?

Online assessments will follow a simple format.

Level 1 will be multiple choice questions marked automatically by the learning platform.

Level 2 will be open-ended questions, where you have to type in your own response, and will be marked by an IBFI assessor. Levels 3 and 4 will be assessed by a combination of openended questions and case studies, with IBFI and/or external assessors marking the assessment material.

access the courses at the next level, but they can attend in-person courses at their current level or below.

If a fitter fails an assessment at any level, they’ll be given the opportunity to re-sit the assessment and support to help them bring their training level back in line with their certification level. Persistent failings may result in the IBFI lowering a fitter's certification level, but only as a last resort. Fitters will be given every opportunity to pass, and on-going support will be provided.

There are further details being discussed

that all level 4 fitters have completed the

currently that may impact level 4 fitters, but any

highest-level courses.

decision on that will be made in consultation with IBFI members. It has been proposed that all level 4 fitters be dropped back a step to level

I still have questions — who can I speak to?

3, meaning they’ll have to complete all the

You can email us at info@ibfi-certification.com

content at level 4 (both online and in-person) to

or look out for our AMAs on this topic, which

get back up to level 4. This was proposed given

will be promoted through the IBFI’s social

the huge step up in training material to ensure

media channels soon.

THE FITTERS’ FAVOURITES S

peedplay pedals have long been a

The next big thing for our line of pedals will be

favourite of bike fitters due to the ability to

the POWRLINK ZERO which will be in the

independently adjust fore/aft, medial/lateral

market soon.

and float along with multiple axle lengths to provide different stance widths. With the latest

What impact do you think the different

versions released by Wahoo, the new owners

centre of rotation on the Speedplay

of Speedplay, we spoke to Katie DuPree,

system has on pedalling efficiency and

Wahoo product manager for pedals and

biomechanical effectiveness?

sensors, to hear about the developments.

The rotational free float is a core value for Speedplay pedals. As with all biomechanics in

How do you feel you have improved on the

cycling, you want everything to be in

original pedals?

alignment and have a dialled-in setting for the

Wahoo expanded accessibility to Speedplay's

individual cyclist. The further your

adjustable float; it is now available in both

biomechanic settings are out of skew, the

Standard and Easy Tension Cleat systems,

more you increase risk of long term wear and tear, which leads to

rather than just Speedplay Zero cleats from the

discomfort and potential

legacy Speedplay line.

injury. The solid base and

The legacy Ultra Light

foundation of this bike fit lies within the pedal and cleat

Action cleats did not offer adjustable float. The Wahoo Speedplay pedal has been redesigned with a

system as a fixed point — the base — of your riding position. Having a solid,

sealed system that no longer requires greasing

connected, and aligned point in the pedals

and regular maintenance. The redesign has also

increases cycling efficiencies and thus leads

increased the durability of the pedals, and made

to improved cycling performance. Everything

the Speedplay pedal system easier to install with

builds upon that, so it's very important to start

hex wrench design.

with the best pedal system and having the adjustable float of the Speedplay system

What do you see as the main benefits of the

allows cyclists to have the best possible fit for

Speedplay system?

their specific body mechanics and comfort

The main benefits are dual-sided entry making it

needs.

easier to clip in and out and get on with your ride, 3-axis adjustability for dialling-in a perfect fit,

Will you still be offering multiple axle

rotational free float 0-15 degrees, low profile

lengths to bike fitters?

design for better aerodynamics, low stack height

Yes, Wahoo will be introducing multiple axle

for increased power transfer, walkable cleats, and

lengths for the Wahoo Speedplay Zero pedals

exceptional cornering clearance.

in the near future. Available lengths will be 56mm, 59mm and 65mm.

Any interesting new developments in the pipeline?

For more information, visit wahoofitness.com.

VELOMETRIK SMART COVER New bike fit products come to the market all the time, but how do you know which ones are worth buying? UK fitter Lee Prescott shares his thoughts on the Velometrik Smart Cover after trying it out in his fit studio.

T

here’s no doubt that the ability to

of the ischial tuberosity to determine width,

see exactly how the weight of a

while its saddle advice app lists over 1500

rider’s being supported by their

saddle models.

saddle is an invaluable tool for any bike fitter.

Whilst these are largely more conventional retail devices, it’s Velometrik’s

Saddle pressure mapping in realtime

smart cover that offers definite value for

can really shed light on how an athlete’s

bike fitting professionals, with its unique

pelvis is interacting with the saddle. What’s

features setting it apart from other pressure

more, it can really make the selection of an

mapping systems.

appropriate saddle a more data driven process as opposed to trial and error.

Velometrik is a German company with a

The pressure mat itself uses embroidered silver threads so that sensors don’t have to be soldered into the mat. And

new suite of tools aimed at streamlining the

with 378 sensors, the readings you can

saddle selection process. Its Smart cube,

take have impressive resolution. This

for example, allows the pressure mapping

EASY-TOREAD: Results can be outputted for easy client presentation

manufacturing method also appears to be very robust whilst remaining flexible.

One small issue we had was when using

In use the system works well and it’s quick to operate once the initial setup is done. The pressure readings we took were

this cover with small bikes, or those with the

consistent and showed a lot of the type of

saddle very low, it was difficult to prevent it

data you would want to see, such as

rubbing on the back wheel without standing

averages per quadrant, movement patterns

and holding it.

and max and min pressures.

The sensor mat is large meaning that

This version of the unit is priced at

you can fit it onto a multitude of saddle

€1700. Velometrik have a new cordless

types including very wide saddles, such as

version planned for 2022 which will transfer

those seen on Dutch roadster-style bikes

the data via Bluetooth and sample at 48

and E-bikes. To provide an easy-to-read

Hz. This will feed to web-based analysis

data screen rather than showing the entire

software which you can run on your studio

pressure reading you can create masks

PC rather than having to plug the

within the software that correspond to the

proprietary unit into a second screen. This

shape of the saddle being mapped.

is planned to retail for €2300.

The software is quite intuitive and the

There is no doubt the Velometrik have

results can be outputted for easy

got some big ideas and these first products

presentation to the client. This initial version

are an impressive statement of intent.

I tested has the software running on a proprietary mini PC that comes with the kit.

RRP 2023€

You simply plug it into a screen connect to

www.velometrik.de

the internet and you’re ready to go.

Opinions expressed in these reviews are personal and are not endorsements by the IBFI. Products in this article were purchased by the reviewer. If you are a bike fitter and have been using a new product you’d like to review, or if you are a company and you’d like to submit a product for a long-term review by qualified bike fitters, email lee@ibfi-certification.com

SETTING THE COURSE FOR BIKE FIT EDUCATION The IBFI Education Committee will take on the long-term development of the common syllabus. Here, we introduce you to the committee’s first five members, and outline how you can apply to join them.

T

o ensure the new common syllabus is something owned and run by the industry, the IBFI has worked with

Tony Corke – Torke Cycling Tony has worked in bike fitting for over 20 years, starting at Cyclefit

industry to create a new committee to

in London before moving over to

manage it, and continue its development.

the US to work with Paul Swift

The committee will be made up of eight

and Kit Vogel at BikeFit. He has

experienced fitters and fit educators, who

worked as a fit educator both for BikeFit

will help to keep the syllabus up to date

and under his own brand, Torke Cycling.

and ensure it remains at the cutting edge

He has worked for independent stores,

of bike fitting education.

chain stores and fitting studios in the UK

The first five members of the committee

and the USA. Tony helps to develop sales

have already been recruited and you can

strategies for bike shops using bike fitting

read about them here. The final three places

as their lead. He has presented on bike

will be filled using an application process

fitting to top dealers at the Giant Dealers’

outlined on the next page. This will ensure

Conference in the USA and to frame

that the committee isn’t pulled too far in any

builders at Bespoked UKHBS. He has been

one direction by large education companies,

International BikeFit Pro Instructor with

and allows for representation from a more

Paul Swift and assisted at Slowtwitch and

diverse cohort. These elected

ICS courses. Tony was SICI certified with

representatives will also work with members

Paraic McGlynn. He is an expert in custom

and seek feedback on how the syllabus could

bicycle design and building, and the

be improved, allowing every IBFI member to

constituent parts thereof.

have an input on the future of bike fitting

Tony’s courses, run through Torke Cycling,

education.

are some of the most comprehensive

courses available. By partnering with co-

pushes the envelope to discover new ways

instructors across Europe, Tony has

to help his clients. And having worked as

delivered courses in several different

the lead fitter for Movistar, Lotto Jumbo and

countries and in multiple languages.

the Spanish Olympic Team, those clients are some of the best in the business.

John Higgins – Fit Kit Systems

Jon’s interest in cycling biomechanics

John entered the world of bike

began in the late 90s, when working for the

fitting in 2007 while working for a

Basque National Sports Agency. Their

major outdoor recreation chain

understanding of cycling biomechanics was

selling bikes and attending an introductory course on bike fitting with Fit

limited so he was asked to undertake two research projects to help fill the gaps.

Kit Systems. This sparked a fascination and

Those papers, later published and

curiosity with the bike-body relationship,

presented at international conferences,

and a progressively singular focus on bike

sparked a new passion, and led to Jon

fitting. Following years of practice in the

launching Custom4.us – which offers

cycling retail world, John started an

biomechanical screening and consultancy

independent fit studio in 2014.

services in cycling and running.

Recognising that there is always more to

Jon teaches bike fitting courses to much of

learn on this topic, John has actively

the Spanish speaking world and

pursued continuing education from other

Custom4.us has expanded into an

leading fitters and fit educators, including

international network of fitters and fit

attending national and international

educators. Through his consultancy work,

conferences, and greatly benefitted from

Jon has also been involved in the creation

the IBFI mentorship program. John

of iconic products like the shark fin saddle.

acquired Fit Kit Systems in 2015 but

continues to work “in the trenches” as a full-time professional bike fitter, testing

Paraic McGlynn – Cyclologic After racing at Cat 1 level, Paraic

ideas and equipment, and gaining insight

moved into coaching, sports

and feedback from customers.

biomechanics, sports science, and

As a bike fit educator John brings to his

performance analysis. He spent

students a unique blend of experience,

time with both Cycling Ireland and the

including: a career background in corporate

French Cycling Federation, working

training and development; retail bike shop

towards National Coaching and Training

employee; independent fit studio operator

Centre tutor certification.

and fitter; industry supplier, and multi-

Paraic has a passion for technology and

disciplinary cyclist.

education, influenced by working for Intel’s

training department in Ireland and the

Jon Iriberri – Custom4.us

United States, and has a Graduate

Jon has been a leading innovator in

Qualification in Corporate Training and

bike fitting since the late 1990s.

Development. In 2000, Paraic relocated to

Often one of the first to embrace

the US and became co-owner of a retail

new technologies, Jon constantly

store in Arizona. He worked to develop a

more scientific approach to bike fitting,

Brazil. A keen sportsman, Marcelo has

sports orthotics, and developed cycling

participated in many different sports,

motion analysis methodologies. Prior to

including basketball, BMX, triathlon, and

founding Cyclologic, Paraic was a director

road cycling. He is also a highly decorated

of Serotta’s SICI Fit school and was active

Jiu-jitsu practitioner and teacher.

in the development of the world’s first

With a degree in Physical Education, and

Cycling Specific Wind tunnel.

another in Acupuncture and Chinese

Paraic has worked with elite cyclists and

medicine, Marcelo has a broad

triathletes from across the world and spent

understanding of the human body and

nine years as the lead fitter for Trek-

sporting performance. In his fitting career,

Segafredo. He also consults on product

Marcelo strives for balance and takes a

development for global cycling brands and

holistic approach to ensure no stone is left

runs Bike Fitter Supply, a multivendor

unturned. He has worked with some of the

website supplying bike fitting products to

best cyclists and triathletes in Brazil, and

the industry.

indeed from across South America.

Marcelo has a passion for learning and has

Marcelo Rocha – marcelorocha.com

gained several qualifications in bike fitting, including FIST, Serotta, Retul,

Marcelo is one of the leading fitters

Bikefitting.com and Guru.

in South America and has been

MarceloRocha.com offers training courses

fitting since 2002 when he was the first person to offer bike fitting services in his hometown, Brasilia, the capital of

to fitters across Brazil. Marcelo is an incredibly experienced educator, having delivered courses for Retul and Guru before setting up his own education centre.

Help shape future courses — join the IBFI’s education committee If you’d like to help shape the future of bike fitting education, why not join our committee? You’ll get a direct say in the future direction of the syllabus and work with the wider IBFI membership to provide feedback at committee meetings.

HOW TO APPLY The application process is open to any IBFI member, you don’t need a background in education or training, but useful and related experiences outside of fitting will strengthen your application.

To apply, simply send your CV to andy@ibfi-certification.com, outlining in the email the reasons you’d make a good committee member.

We would love applicants from geographical regions not currently represented on the committee so preference will be given to applicants from outside the US and Europe. At least one place on the committee will also be filled by a female fitter, regardless of their geographic location.

MEET THE EDUCATORS ALREADY ON-BOARD Leading bike fitting educators from across the world have signed up to the new common syllabus, with more set to join soon. Here, we profile some of those offering courses in-line with the new curriculum.

'relaxed' state on the bicycle, giving the cyclist the most stability and the greatest potential to produce power.

Amy Schultz is a licensed and practicing

Doctor of Physical Therapy. She also has an

Bike Fitness Coaching, California (USA)

undergraduate degree in kinesiology &

Bike Fitness Coaching approach bike

biomechanics and raced as a women’s elite

fitting from a biomechanical perspective

category 2 crit racer. Amy holds a certificate

and start from the fundamental belief that

as a Certified Strength and Conditioning

no two people are the same. Their

Specialist (CSCS) and currently works as a

courses teach that each bike fit is a

physical therapist at the Red Bull Athletic

unique experience and it’s necessary to

Performance Center.

work with the cyclist’s input to help them

achieve their perfect fit. The courses are written and delivered by Father and Daughter pair, Rick and Amy Schultz, who offer a great balance of biomechanics, coaching and physical therapy knowledge.

Rick Schultz is a certified Cycling coach and has certifications in power-

BikeFit Physio, Essex and Cambridgeshire (UK) Charlie Holt is a Chartered

based training, LEOMO real-time motion

Physiotherapist and IBFI-certified bike fitter

analysis, and is a USAC Certified Skills

working in Essex and Cambridgeshire, UK.

Instructor. Rick's bike fitting beliefs focus

Charlie started thebikefitphysio.co.uk,

on placing the rider’s body into its natural

combining his physiotherapy knowledge and

SUPPORTING INSTRUCTORS

bike fitting skills to help cyclists experiencing

Dr Wendy Holliday is a Physical

pain find a position that allows them to enjoy

Therapist with a special interest in clinical

pain-free cycling again. Charlie teaches bike

bike fitting. After working in private practice

fitting through bikefit-training.com and has

for over ten years, she decided to pursue

developed several courses — his most

post-graduate studies with a focus on

popular being one designed specifically for

cycling biomechanics. Wendy’s passion is

healthcare professionals. Charlie’s approach

combining her PT experience with cycling

to bike fitting teaches healthcare

research to conduct clinical bike fits for

professionals to use their strengths, in

those who are either injured or

particular their knowledge of human anatomy

uncomfortable on the bike. Wendy has

and how the body moves, to enhance the

presented at numerous international

bike fitting services they provide.

conferences, including Science and Cycling,

He demonstrates how a quality biomechanical assessment can determine

Medicine of Cycling and ISCO. Wendy and Curtis are teaming up to

what position you think about putting a

offer online and in-person bike fitting

cyclist in, and delves into developing

workshops. The aim is to provide content

personalised home-exercise programs to

that enables bike fitters to assess cycling

help cyclists address muscle weaknesses. To

clients on and off the bike confidently. Their

Charlie, bike fitting isn’t a one-off session;

focus is on developing evaluation and

he teaches that it’s a continued process of

intervention skills and teaching treatment

working with the cyclist to improve their body

tools to improve the injured cyclist. Their

mechanics which will in turn, improve the

first offering is a hands-on practical

quality of the bike fit even further.

workshop in April.

Custom4.us, Bilbao (Spain) Curtis Cramblett and Wendy Holliday, California and North Carolina (USA) Curtis Cramblett is a Licensed Physical Therapist (LPT) with over 15 years’ experience. He’s also a Certified Functional Manual Therapist (CFMT) and has worked with Garmin-Cervelo as a bike fitter and physical therapist. Curtis is a founding member of Medicine of Cycling and a member of the IBFI steering committee. He regularly presents at conferences across the world, including ICS and ISCO.

Custom4.us is the brainchild of Jon iriberri, who has been a leading innovator in bike fitting since the late 1990s. Jon has worked as the lead fitter for Movistar, Lotto Jumbo and the Spanish Olympic Team, meaning his clients are some of the best in the business.

Custom4.us offers biomechanical screening and consultancy services in cycling and running. They also consult in sports medicine and offer coaching services, along with online courses in bike

SUPPORTING INSTRUCTORS

coaching, sport nutrition courses and fitting,

Cyclefit is active throughout Europe, and

training with power. With over 15 centres

partly beyond, but recognises the importance

across Spain, they’re one of the biggest bike

of personal contact and individual solutions.

fitting networks in Europe.

This is the reason they work so closely with

Jon teaches bike fitting courses, online

local specialists and experts who are close

and in-person, to much of the Spanish

to cyclists and can provide a unique, hands-

speaking world and Custom4.us has

on service.

expanded into an international network of fitters and fit educators. They now offer bike fitting education across most of Europe and South America. Jon has also presented at conferences across the world and is a great role model for elite fitters, always willing to share his knowledge and speak openly with

Cyclologic, Scottsdale, Arizona (USA) Cyclologic started as a fit-first retail store

colleagues and peers.

and quickly expanded into cycling analysis education and technology development. It’s education arm now offers courses in over 15 countries and half a dozen languages and is growing constantly. Cyclologic’s sister

Cyclefit, Hamont (Belgium) Cyclefit is part of Innovative Cycling BV

company, MOTIONMETRIQ, is one of the biggest video capture companies in bike

and was founded in 2013. Cyclefit’s mission

fitting and continues to push the boundaries

is to give as many cyclists as possible more

of what’s available to bike fitters.

cycling pleasure. This is achieved through

Head fitter, Paraic McGlynn, has worked

the development and distribution of bike

with professional teams like Trek-Segafredo

fitting products, software and services to help

and the US Olympic Triathlon Team, along

with the determination of a comfortable and

with a host of elite-level cyclists and

sustainable cycling position.

triathletes. He also works as a product

Cyclefit is based on real solutions, and

consultant with Purely Custom and was

independent, honest advice for all cyclists.

heavily involved in the development and

As knowledge is considered the most

implementation of Trek’s in-house Precision

important aspect for independent retailers,

Fit courses.

Cyclefit spends a lot of time and energy on

Cyclologic offers comprehensive training

training courses and sharing its knowledge.

on cycling analysis, passing on knowledge

Covid presented a real challenge for bike fit

gained by working with professional teams,

educators, but Cyclefit showed great resolve

medical support staff and international bike

and innovation in hosting an incredibly

brands. It partners with industry leaders and

successful series of webinars.

innovators like MOTIONMETRIQ, gebioMized

SUPPORTING INSTRUCTORS

and Purely Custom to develop some of the best analytical tools available.

Marcelo Rocha, Brasilia (Brazil) Marcelo is one of the leading fitters in

Fit Kit Systems, Salt Lake City, Utah (USA) Formed in the early 1980’s, Fit Kit Systems is the longest running bike fit education and equipment supplier in the United States. Many notable fitters of today got their start with a bike fit course from Fit Kit Systems, and many bike shops progressed their bike sizing, sales, and fitting with the use of products and protocol from Fit Kit Systems.

Fit Kit Systems pioneered the use of body segment measurements as a metric of relevance for bike sizing and fitting; resolved a plague of knee pain issues with the Rotational Adjustment Device when cleatpedal systems were first introduced, and developed software for documenting bike fits when personal computers first started showing up in bike shops.

Today, Fit Kit Systems continues to be a small, innovative and independent supplier. It offers : • practical, hands-on fitting tools and

South America and has been fitting since 2002. He has a thirst for knowledge that has taken him across the world to continue his development as a bike fitter. Marcelo has always been keen to share what he learns as well, which makes him a great instructor. In fact, bike fitting isn’t the only area where Marcelo teaches. He is a highly decorated Jiu-jitsu practitioner and teacher.

With a degree in Physical Education, and another in Acupuncture and Chinese medicine, Marcelo has a broad understanding of the human body and sporting performance. In his fitting courses, he strives for balance and takes a holistic approach to ensure no stone is left unturned.

Marcelo has gained several qualifications in bike fitting, including FIST, Serotta, Retul, Bikefitting.com and Guru. He is an incredibly experienced educator, having delivered courses for Retul and Guru before setting up his own education centre.

MarceloRocha.com offers training courses to fitters across Brazil.

supplies for both fitters and cycling enthusiasts, offering both in-house and distributed brands • revised and updated educational content online and in person, with a focus on

Physiohaus Bike Fit Education Centre,

foundational concepts and skills

Newcastle Upon Tyne (UK)

• bike fit documentation software with client reports.

Physiohaus use their background in Physiotherapy to deliver evidence-based, practical training in a small group

SUPPORTING INSTRUCTORS

environment utilising a variety of tools,

fitting courses both for BikeFit and under

technologies and approaches.

his own brand, Torke Cycling.

Lead Instructor: John Dennis MCSP John worked as Lead Instructor with Retül

By partnering with co-instructors across Europe, Torke Cycling are able to deliver

from 2010 to 2016 and has vast experience

courses in multiple different countries and

teaching bike fit classes, from basic fit

several different languages.

principles to advanced motion capture. He

Tony’s expertise in bicycle design and

developed course curriculum and led on

background in retail and sales adds a

development of courses for medical

unique, practical dimension to the advice

professionals and the management principles

and support he offers course participants.

behind cycling related injuries.

Torke Cycling Bike Fitting training adds a

Instructor: Morgan Lloyd MCSP

new level of understanding to the bike

Morgan has significant experience

fitter’s work, helping them to deliver

working with most of the world’s best bike

incredible customer satisfaction and

fitting tools and technologies, and experience

facilitate better client-fitter relationships for

in setting up and starting a bike fitting

improved outcomes. Torke Cycling training

business. His own bike fitting education

is brand-neutral and suitable for developing

journey started at Cyclefit in London where

bike fitters working with all systems.

Morgan helped to develop and implement the

Tony is also Partner and Head of

Trek Precision Fit education program, train

Cycling Dynamics for Spoon Customs and

educators across Europe and lead training in

helps to develop custom geometry bicycles

the UK.

for clients around the world.

Between them, John and Morgan have

Bike fitters, physiotherapists, coaches

been involved in fitting pro cycling teams

and athletes from across the world use

such as One Pro Cycling, the Great Britain

Torke Cycling methods to optimise both

Cycling Team, Orica Greenedge, Europcar,

their own riding positions, and those of their

Team Sky, MTN Qhebeka, Geox, Colombia

clients.

Pro Cycling, WNT Pro Cycling and Radioshack, as well as numerous pro triathletes on the ITU and Ironman circuits.

Torke Cycling, Bath (UK) Torke Cycling is run by Tony Corke, who has over 20 years’ experience working in bike fitting. He has worked as a fitter in the UK and US, and has experience running bike

BECOME PART OF THE NEW EDUCATION SYSTEM If you’re a bike fitting education provider and want to find out more about running courses in-line with the new education syllabus, get in touch by emailing: andy@ibfi-certification.com

Get involved with the IBFI’s magazine

H

ave you ever wanted to have a go at writing

editing, collecting

an article? Is there a subject you’d love to

photos, and coming up

share with bike fitters around the world? Do

with ideas for features.

you want to get more involved with the IBFI? If so,

We’d also like help with

International Bike Fitter needs you.

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Every issue of this magazine is put together entirely by volunteers, and we’re looking to expand our volunteer team to help grow the publication and build on the success we’ve had so far.

You don’t have to have had any experience in writing to get involved, and while a good standard of English is desirable, it’s not essential.

Volunteer tasks can include anything from writing articles, identifying authors to submit papers,

regular Cafe Stop feature, so if you know any fitters you think should be featured, get in touch.

Volunteer roles with the magazine can be as big or small a role as you’d like, and can be a great way of getting involved with the IBFI and the wider bike fitting industry.

To find out more about joining the volunteer team, or to submit article ideas, email Andy Brooke Andy@ibfi-certification.com

THE IMPORTANCE OF POSTURE IN BIKE FIT

In his IBFI mentoring assessment, Utah-based Australian fitter John Higgins of BikeFitr and Fit Kit Systems, explains why good posture matters when it comes to comfort and sustainability.

R

egardless of whether we are sitting,

measurements oversimplify the postural

standing, walking, running, sleeping, or

presentation of the person. A cyclist may exhibit

cycling, the influence of gravity is ever

the same position as defined by joint angles, but

present. Posture is how we align and hold our body

present with a notably different posture – with

to counter the relentless force of gravity. The

implications for energy efficiency, comfort, and

central focus of posture is the alignment of the

performance.

pelvis and spine, which together provide the foundation for the movement of the upper and lower extremities.

From a bike fit perspective, it is worth

Benefits of optimal posture A cyclist’s posture on a bicycle may be viewed as qualitatively optimal or suboptimal. Their

considering how a cyclist might best align their

posture will be either helping or hindering overall

pelvis and spinal column to function at an optimal

comfort and performance through the following

level on the bicycle. Posture is not the same as

attributes:

position. Position takes into account the arrangement and movement of the upper and lower

• Balance A key role of optimal posture is to align

limbs in relation to the spine, and to each other. A

the body to function and perform well in the

cyclist’s position is commonly defined by joint angle

presence of gravity. Hence, having the

measures, and indirectly documented by bike set

rider’s centre of mass balanced over

up measures.

the primary fulcrum point of the

Although the use of motion analysis can

bicycle will help optimise

provide comprehensive data and useful insights

muscle recruitment and

into a cyclist’s position and function, point-to-point

handling responsiveness.

If the rider’s centre of mass is balanced over the

on a bicycle, other than through the metrics

bike, then small postural changes can be more

provided from their cycle computer. With the

easily deployed for the demands of different riding

exception of some high performance programs, the

situations, such as climbing, sprinting, cornering,

culture of cycling has not embraced skills-based

and descending.

feedback and coaching, other than the skill of

• Airway and breathing Optimal posture

getting faster by getting fitter. Many cyclists do not

contributes to the maintenance of an open (vs

know how they should be situated on a bicycle, and

restricted) airway to enable full use of the lungs. A

how to align and use their body to best effect for

sub-optimal posture will restrict the airway, limit

comfort and performance.

the mobility of the ribcage, and inhibit the action of

• Equipment choice Many cyclists present with

the diaphragm. Effective gas exchange is

poor posture due to subconscious compensations

necessary to fuel the muscles to drive the pedals.

for unsuitable equipment choices. The saddle is a

• Muscle recruitment Postural alignment informs

frequent culprit and is a critical piece of equipment

body position which affects muscle recruitment.

We are looking for a balance of anterior and posterior muscle activity from the hips and lower limbs to drive the pedals, while

because many postural compensations result from a poorly supported pelvis.

However, the list is extensive and also includes seat post setback, crank length,

minimising unnecessary or

stem length and angle, handlebar

compensatory upper body muscle

dimensions, and most fundamentally, the

recruitment.

underlying bike frame geometry and size.

• Neural Transmission Optimal spinal alignment

• Bike fit position This refers primarily to saddle

minimises the risk of nerve impingement to both

position (height, setback, angle) and handlebar

the upper and lower limbs, supporting full neural

position (reach and drop) for the cyclist. A person

activity which is needed for maximal muscle fibre

can present with a good position as defined by

recruitment and sensory feedback.

normative joint angles based on static or dynamic

• Efficient energy use The summation of the

measurements, and yet exhibit signs of suboptimal

above factors will reduce the amount of energy

posture.

used in maintaining postural compensations,

If a fit position is determined and set up without

extending the time taken to reach a state of

considering posture, the rider may be locked into a

fatigue. Poor posture likely hastens the onset of

position of ongoing postural compensation. If they

fatigue for any given fitness level.

subsequently attempt to adopt a position of

• Ongoing participation For injured or older

improved posture, the fit position will make it

cyclists with medically diagnosed spinal

harder, not easier to maintain. A ‘good fit' is not a

conditions, the ability to maintain optimal posture

good fit if it only takes into account position as

while riding is critical to being able to continue

defined by joint angles.

riding pain-free and without further aggravation to

• Foot-pedal interface An important subset of both

their condition.

equipment choice and the bike fit position is the choice of cycling shoe and related internal foot

Contributors to suboptimal posture

support, and external cleat position and

• Postural self-awareness The vast majority of

modifications. Dysfunction in the stability of the feet

cyclists are unaware of how they look and function

on the pedals can have kinetic chain ripple effects up to the pelvis and spine.

• Pre-existing conditions These include leg

significant, and so on. In this model, an area such

length differences, spinal conditions (scoliosis,

as the foot-pedal interface might be revisited

spondylitis, stenosis, disc compression, fractures,

multiple times at different stages, instead of trying

and fusions), overuse injuries, and carryover

to do everything at once.

effects from prior accidents or surgeries. Any of these may produce postural compensations as

The primary interventions used in the bike fit

the body seeks the line of least resistance to

process are:

operate the bicycle.

Awareness raising First is discussing the importance and benefits of adopting an optimal

Bike fit interventions to promote optimal

posture on the bike. I liken this to being in a

posture

position of ‘athletic readiness’ in order to function

Incorporating a postural-centric approach into

and perform well. This is equally applicable to any

an existing bike fit process may require a shift in

other sport, so if I have determined the cyclist is

mindset and process. The process begins with a

also active in other sports, I will reference those for

pre-fit interview and off-bike posture, gait, and

an analogy.

functional movement assessment, followed by an examination of the

The intellectual concept is made more powerful with visuals, and the best visual is for the cyclist to

current bike presentation and set

see themselves on the bike via video. I primarily

up. Once the cyclist is on the bike,

use the side view, but occasionally will use rear

begin with a global impression of

view to show pelvic instability, or front view to

their overall posture and

illustrate leg alignment. Often the cyclist does not

relationship to the equipment.

If postural compensations are present, move to

know what to do on the bike to improve their posture, so we start off the bike.

more specific assessments to flush out probable

Off-bike coaching I will have a good idea of the

causes. This may include position assessments,

person’s postural positioning potential on the bike

pelvic stability, saddle pressure mapping, centre of

through previous assessment of their standing

mass balance, frontal plane knee tracking, and

posture, gait, strength, and mobility. To translate

deeper questioning of the rider. The purpose of this

this onto the bike, I find it helps to start with a

information gathering phase is to build up an

postural movement sequence off the bike. From

evidence case to present to the cyclist and to

standing, I introduce and guide the rider through

hypothesise likely interventions. This is not ignoring

hip hinging, spinal stabilisation, core, and shoulder

the cyclist’s reason for a bike fit, be it performance

engagement.

gains or relieving discomforts. These specific

In addition, I want the cyclist to achieve a

objectives or issues are addressed within a

balanced weight distribution fore-aft, and balanced

postural context.

recruitment of the glutes, hamstrings, and

The traditional bike fitting process follows a

quadriceps while in hip and knee flexion. Initially,

linear sequence of adjustments to the shoes/cleats,

this is done with the feet side by side, and then with

saddle, and then bars. A postural-centric approach

one foot in front of the other to simulate being on

takes the form of a ‘cascading triage’ model, in

cranks. This is done with live video feedback from

which the area of highest need and impact is

the side so the person can see their movements

addressed first, followed by the next most

and posture.

On-bike coaching Back on the bike, I have the

and then slouching on the couch, the posture-

cyclist apply and practice the same techniques,

aware cyclist will focus on adopting a position of

principally hip hinging and by lifting and leading

‘athletic readiness’ and in doing so will likely

with the sternum to prevent excessive thoracic

enhance their performance, as well as mitigate

flexion. This may be supported with hands-on

common cycling aches and pains.

physical cuing to help rotate the pelvis, relax the

In addition to increasing proprioceptive and

back or engage the shoulders or core. I’ll have the

mental awareness, some riders will benefit from

person ride with live video feedback so they can

a program of exercises to improve posterior

experiment and connect what they feel with what

chain and spinal mobility, and core and glute

they see. The person needs to understand where

strengthening and activation.

they need to be on the bike, and how to get there, and your guidance may be needed for this.

Equipment selection and positioning At this

Conclusion Advances in the accuracy and use of

stage, the bike fitter will be determining whether the

technology for bike fitting has swung the

existing fit related equipment on the bike is suitable

pendulum toward a strong focus on data

or should be changed, as well as working to refine

collection and analytical thinking. By focusing on

the rider’s position such that it supports the practice

the cyclist’s posture, the bike fitter can blend

and maintenance of optimal posture. Everything is

qualitative observations together with quantitative

up for revision, including the bike itself, but

data to achieve a superior outcome. The best

common candidates are changes to the saddle,

bike fitting outcomes involve attention to the

saddle positioning, cleat positioning, and handlebar

interactions and interdependencies of posture,

positioning. The primary contact points are

position, and contact point management.

manipulated to allow the person to ride in a non-

• This article is an edited version of a paper

compensatory manner.

presented to the IBFI by John Higgins as a

Assign homework Work with the cyclist to find

requirement for attaining Level 3 certification.

one or two mental or physical triggers that

John was mentored by IBFI Level 4 fitter

they can take away and use to cue themselves into having an optimal

Happy Freedman. Additional thanks to Dr. Andrea Myers for providing peer review. If

posture for specific riding situations

you’re a Level 3 or 4 certified fitter and

(climbing, descending, cornering,

would like to become a mentor, email

etc.). Instead of climbing onto the bike

mentoring@ibfi-certification.com.

PRODUCT RECALL NOTICE Due to a recent single reported failure incident, FORM Bikefitting has initiated a cautionary recall of all their 16mm titanium pedal extenders. At time of publication of this notice, no information was available as to the cause of the failure.

Use of this product could result in failure leading to loss of control and injury. If you have sold, fitted or are using a set of these extenders:

- stop using them immediately - inform any clients who have them fitted to stop using them - contact FORM or your distributor for further info on what to do All purchases of this product will be refunded.

Contact FORM at contact@form-bikefit.co.uk RECALL DATE 11/11/21

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