PMBIA Mountain Bike Instructor Courses

Train to become certified as a globally recognised Professional Mountain Bike Instructor. Open the door to more career opportunities in the MTB industry, improve your riding and ability to teach others.

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Courses in Japan
Our base is in Hakuba, Nagano Prefecture, and is where we try to schedule L1 courses but, if you are able to gather a group to meet the minimum numbers then we are able to travel to you, although running the course will depend on having suitable terrain at your loaction.
Important Info
JOI works with the PMBIA to organize and run courses in Japan, Taiwan, and the Philippines.
JOI handles registration and payment, and shares student details with PMBIA HQ, who will create your member profile. This process may take 2–3 days.
Once registered, please allow 2–3 days for your PMBIA profile to update. After that, you’ll be able to log in to the PMBIA website to complete your pre-course materials and download course documents.
✈️ Travel & Accommodation
We recommend not booking travel or accommodation until you receive a confirmation email from PMBIA that the course will run. A minimum number of participants is required to confirm each course.
JOI will do our best to ensure all courses proceed as scheduled.
NOTE: Facility fees (e.g. Gondola) + Lunch are not included in the course fee

WHO IS THIS COURSE FOR? AM I READY?

If you’re a Level 1 Instructor, we recommend at least one season of teaching experience before taking the TECH course. However, confident instructors are welcome to join sooner.
If you’re a Level 1 Instructor who enjoys technical riding and wants to improve at teaching skills like climbing, pedaling technique, endos or nose pivots, this course is ideal for you.
If you’re a Level 1 Instructor aiming to level up your teaching and riding on blue and black trails, this course is a great fit.

If you’re a Level 2 AIR Instructor looking to expand your ability to teach technical trail riding in cross-country or enduro terrain, this course is for you.
If you’re a Level 2 AIR Instructor aiming to refine riding skills for greater creativity, confidence, or speed, consider this course.
If you’re a full-time Level 2 AIR Instructor ready to grow as a coach, mentor, and technical rider, the TECH course supports your path.

This course is also suitable for:

Confident, advanced mountain bikers passionate about teaching intermediate to advanced riders.
Instructors experienced with beginner to intermediate students across a variety of terrain.
Instructors confident riding black diamond trails and performing at least emerging or consistent versions of technical maneuvers.
Riders confident leading and riding in groups, in all conditions, with responsibility for group safety and experience.

Required Maneuvers for TECH:

Comfortable, consistent, and correct execution of the following maneuvers over natural drops up to 2ft.

Maneuver	Level 2 \| Consistent \| 4 out of 5	Level 3 \| Autonomous \| All 5
Basic Bunnyhop	4–6″ high	Over 6″ high
Basic Wheelie	Min. two bike lengths	Min. three bike lengths
Basic Manual	Min. two bike lengths	Min. three bike lengths
Endo	Lifting rear wheel above 6″	Lifting rear wheel above 12″
Nose Pivot	Beyond 45° in one direction	Beyond 45° in both directions

Not sure if you’re ready for the TECH course? Try the 2-day TECH Module first. It’s a great way to develop your skills and familiarize yourself with Level 2/3 standards, without the pressure of assessment or certification.

PRE-COURSE READING & WORKSHEET: 2–3 HRS

To get the most from your PMBIA training, complete the pre-course reading and worksheet. This includes the comprehensive PMBIA Reference Guide and the TECH Course Booklet. Expect to spend 2–3 hours. Materials will be available in your member profile after registration.

COURSE LOGISTICS

For travel, accommodation, weather protocols, timing, and equipment needs, visit the FAQ tab on this page.

COURSE CONTEXT

The TECH Instructor Course is designed to certify Level 2 and 3 instructors, offering two assessment levels to provide a progressive training experience for each level. It trains instructors to teach and guide intermediate to advanced riders in cross-country environments using technical terrain.

Target: Intermediate to advanced riders
Terrain: Green, blue, and single black diamond (red in Europe) singletrack
Typical location: Cross-country trail networks
Skill goals: Climbing, descending, steeps/tech, cornering, pedaling technique, pumping
Maneuver goals: Nose pivots, wheelies, manuals, bunnyhops, natural drops
Environment: Front to mid-country (within 2 hours of emergency medical care)
Lesson length: 2 to 6 hours, private or group
Affiliation: Conducted through a mountain bike school, club, or coaching service

Course Duration: Four days + 2–3 hrs of pre-course reading and worksheet (35 hrs total, including assessment)

PREREQUISITES

PMBIA Level 1 Certification
Current PMBIA Membership (purchased separately)
2+ seasons teaching experience recommended
Kids Module is an asset, but not mandatory
Confident riding with consistent form on technical, flowy intermediate-to-advanced terrain
40hr Wilderness First Aid strongly recommended
Minimum age: 17 for Level 2 Certifications

DESCRIPTION

TECH INSTRUCTOR COURSE | 4-DAY INTERMEDIATE–ADVANCED CERTIFICATION

This course advances PMBIA instructors through practical, skill-based teaching focused on steeps, corners, climbing, and technical maneuvers. Emphasis is placed on delivering safe, skill-progressive lessons using PMBIA’s proven templates and methodology. Maneuver-based instruction introduces bunnyhops, manuals, wheelies, nose pivots, and small natural drops.

Climbing, pedaling efficiency, and control on steeps
Confident, consistent cornering, pumping, and descending
Technical maneuver instruction: bunnyhops, wheelies, manuals, nose pivots, drops

The course typically runs in cross-country trail networks. Instructors will develop five core skill sets: People Skills, Guiding Skills, Teaching Skills, Riding Skills, and Instructor Traits, while receiving daily feedback and mentorship from a PMBIA Trainer.

HOW IT WORKS FOR LEVEL 2 & 3 CERTIFICATIONS

Level 2 Pathway: Instructors may take either the AIR or TECH Instructor Course. After passing both teaching and riding assessments, they receive their Level 2 Certification.

Level 3 Pathway: Requires completion of both the AIR and TECH Instructor Courses, plus the Kids Module, creating a well-rounded, advanced instructor ready for diverse mountain bike roles.

PRECAP ASSESSMENT SYSTEM

Processing | Emerging | Consistent | Autonomous | Proficient

Level 2: Must demonstrate a minimum of “consistent” skill level in both teaching and riding.

Level 3: Must show an “autonomous” (refined) level of skill to pass both assessments.

GENERAL QUESTIONS

WHAT’S THE MINIMUM AGE FOR THE COURSE?

The minimum age for Level 2 courses is 17 years old. Teaching and guiding mountain biking is inherently dangerous at this level. Because instructors are legally responsible for both adults and children, PMBIA requires a higher minimum age.

DO I NEED MY FIRST AID CERTIFICATE TO PARTICIPATE IN THE COURSE?

No. While PMBIA strongly recommends a minimum 40hr Wilderness/Outdoor First Aid certification before working as an instructor or guide, you do not need a first aid certificate to participate in the course.

WILL THE COURSE RUN IF IT’S RAINING?

Yes, courses run rain or shine. Mountain bike instructors and guides must be prepared to work in all outdoor conditions. Unless there is lightning or truly extreme weather, the course will go ahead. Bring spare gloves and socks for comfort in wet or cold weather.

CAN I TAKE THE LEVEL 1 AND 2 IN THE SAME YEAR?

PMBIA recommends teaching for at least a season between Level 1 and Level 2 to help consolidate your teaching and guiding skills. However, experienced instructors (e.g., Level 3 Snowboard Instructors) who are strong, confident riders may be able to complete both in the same season. The 2-day AIR or TECH Development Modules are also great preparation for the full 4-day certification courses.

COURSE LOGISTICS

OTHER EQUIPMENT

Instructors must carry:

Working phone
Pen and paper
Small backpack or hip-pack
Spare tubes/patches or tubeless kit
Tire levers and pump
Multi-tool and chain tool
First aid kit
Weather-appropriate clothing
Water & snacks
Lunch or money for lunch

TIMING

Arrive on time, ready to learn and ride. Each day includes a 1-hour lunch break around 12pm–1pm. Courses typically finish between 4–5pm. Full attendance is required for certification.

WHEN SHOULD I BOOK MY TRAVEL & ACCOMMODATION?

Do not book travel or accommodation until the course is confirmed by PMBIA. Minimum numbers are required.

WEATHER

Courses run in all weather unless safety is compromised (e.g., lightning or severe conditions). Dress appropriately. Spare socks and gloves are highly recommended. Full policy: pmbia.bike/policies

EQUIPMENT

Lift-accessed courses: Trail or Enduro bike (125–160mm suspension), good brakes, enduro/DH tires. XC bikes: suitable for climbing/descending. Downhill bikes are not suitable for XC courses. Helmets are mandatory. Knee pads, gloves, elbow pads recommended. Flat pedals with MTB-specific shoes are suggested. E-bikes are not typically allowed but contact info@pmbia.bike for exceptions.

RE-TESTS

WHAT IF I FAIL THE COURSE?Re-tests are a valuable opportunity for growth.

Riding re-test: attend Day 2 of a course or submit a video (follow the PDF guidelines).
Teaching re-test: return for Day 2 and teach one maneuver and one skills lesson.
Full re-test: If both portions are failed, retake the full course (20% discount applies).
Timeline: Re-tests must be completed within two calendar years.

Contact info@pmbia.bike to register.

LEVEL 3 PATHWAY

LEVEL 3 REFINED, ADVANCED INSTRUCTOR

The PMBIA Level 3 Certification requires instructors to complete the 4-day AIR Instructor Course, the 4-day TECH Instructor Course, and the Kids Module. This modular format helps build diverse, adaptable instructors ready to lead in a wide range of mountain bike programs and industry settings.Click here to learn more.

INJURIES

I GOT INJURED AFTER REGISTERING. WILL I GET A REFUND?

PMBIA expects all participants to stay healthy and make smart riding decisions before the course. Injury-related cancellations require a doctor’s note (submitted within five business days of the course start date) and may result in a 50% refund or course transfer. If you fail to notify us before the course begins, no refund will be issued. Once the course has started, refunds are not possible.

I HAVE HAD AN INJURY OR CONCUSSION. SHOULD I STILL PARTICIPATE?

The PMBIA strongly recommends not participating in a course if you are not 100% physically and mentally capable—especially after a concussion. If you have any concerns, please consult your physician. You will be riding and thinking intensively over multiple days. Disclose any past injuries before registering.

Courses require minimum enrollment and significant planning including permits and scheduling. Our injury policy ensures fairness for other participants and helps PMBIA, a not-for-profit organization, run sustainably.

See the Booking & Cancellation Policy: click here

CROSSING OVER FROM OTHER CERTIFICATIONS

WHY DO I NEED TO START WITH PMBIA LEVEL 1 IF I’M ALREADY CERTIFIED OR EXPERIENCED?

The PMBIA Level 1 course is more aligned with IMBA/BICP Level 2 and serves as a critical foundation for teaching within the PMBIA system. Even instructors certified elsewhere, or with significant coaching or racing experience, consistently find Level 1 essential due to PMBIA’s unique methodology and progression model.

PMBIA Level 2 is an advanced course that assumes you understand and can apply the concepts from Level 1. Without that background, even skilled riders may struggle to teach effectively or succeed in the Level 2 environment. PMBIA has seen many experienced professionals—including Level 2-certified instructors from other systems—gain the most value by starting with PMBIA Level 1.

The continuation of learning from Level 1 to Level 2 is fundamental to building consistent, safe, and effective instruction. PMBIA’s standards are designed to raise the bar for mountain bike teaching globally, and starting with Level 1 ensures all instructors are prepared to deliver the highest quality training to their students.

TECH TEACHING

Candidates will be assessed through a minimum of four, 10–20 minute practice teaching sessions. These sessions take place in both trail and open environments, allowing candidates to practice with peers and receive feedback from a PMBIA Trainer.

ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

Candidates must guide safely on green, blue, or black flow and technical terrain, while introducing students to jumps and drops. Teaching should reflect clear application of the PMBIA Lesson Format, Training Wheel, and IDEA Progression models.

Level 2: Teaching consistently with confidence and structure, using sound technical content in a safe and engaging way.
Level 3: Teaching autonomously, adapting and refining content fluidly to suit student needs.
Emphasis on People Skills and the Human-Centric Approach.
Effective risk management using PMBIA terrain and class protocols.
Skill-blending to enhance both skills- and maneuver-based lessons.
Proficient use of Lesson Format and Training Wheel models.
Structured use of the I.D.E.A. Progression teaching model.
Sound drills, tasks, and lesson content encouraging genuine development.
Clear, concise, and technically accurate explanations.
Demonstrates variety and effectiveness in teaching techniques.
Appropriate terrain use for optimal safety, engagement, and progression.
Detailed analysis of student biomechanics and techniques.
Delivers positive, solution-focused, technically accurate feedback.
Advanced mechanical understanding, including suspension setup, bike fit, and geometry discussions.

TECH COURSE WORKSHEET

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

ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

Reading and completing the worksheet takes approximately 2–4 hours and serves as the written component of the assessment.

TECH RIDING

Level 2 and 3 candidates are assessed throughout the course in natural, cross country and enduro-style terrain, including roll-downs and drops. No isolated ‘ride-off’ takes place, promoting a progressive, low-stress learning environment.

ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

Candidates should be comfortable climbing and descending advanced terrain with roots, rocks, steep sections, and tight corners, and demonstrate a range of foundational maneuvers.

Level 2: Skills are consistent in easier conditions.
Level 3: Skills are autonomous, refined, and effective under challenge.

RIDING SKILLS

Strong, mobile riding position with active range of movement.
Cadence and pedaling technique for control and efficiency on climbs and tech terrain.
Controlled braking without skidding on steeps and roll-downs.
Advanced trail scanning with creative line choice and smooth riding.
Effective angulation, inclination, and rotation in various cornering scenarios.
Pressure control for rough terrain, pumping, and smooth transitions.
Refined timing of techniques to produce smooth, efficient riding.

RIDING MANEUVERS

Level 2: Demonstrate 4 of 5 required maneuvers + drops up to ~2ft with appropriate technique.
Level 3: Demonstrate all 5 maneuvers + drops up to ~2ft with refined technique.
Performs drop techniques based on “Point of Commitment, Press/Absorb/Poke” according to drop shape, speed, and size.
Advanced emergency stop with stability, centered body, and minimal skid (front brake only).

TECH MANEUVER REQUIREMENTS

Maneuver	Level 2 \| Consistent (4 of 5)	Level 3 \| Autonomous (All 5)
Basic Bunnyhop	4–6″ high	Over 6″ high
Basic Wheelie	Min. 2 bike lengths	Min. 3 bike lengths
Basic Manual	Min. 2 bike lengths	Min. 3 bike lengths
Endo	Rear wheel lift above 6″	Rear wheel lift above 12″
Nose Pivot	Beyond 45° one direction	Beyond 45° both directions

JAPAN
OUTDOOR
INSTITUTE

PMBIA Mountain Bike Instructor Courses

Select a Course to View

Courses in Japan

Important Info

✈️ Travel & Accommodation

PMBIA Course Schedule

WHO IS THIS COURSE FOR? AM I READY?

PRE-COURSE READING & WORKSHEET: 2–3 HRS

COURSE LOGISTICS

COURSE CONTEXT

PREREQUISITES

DESCRIPTION

HOW IT WORKS FOR LEVEL 2 & 3 CERTIFICATIONS

PRECAP ASSESSMENT SYSTEM

GENERAL QUESTIONS

COURSE LOGISTICS

RE-TESTS

LEVEL 3 PATHWAY

INJURIES

CROSSING OVER FROM OTHER CERTIFICATIONS

TECH TEACHING

ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

TECH COURSE WORKSHEET

ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

TECH RIDING

ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

Level 2 / 3 TECH Course