Coach Soltren - It's Official!

I just checked the USA Cycling Web site, and guess what I found!

Coach
Road - Cat 3
Track - Cat 3

That's right ladies and gentlemen, USA Cycling has determined that I'm capable of passing a really easy test and a background check! I'm "technically" a certified "coach". Whether I ever take on any formal clients is another story, but this is a good story to tell on the road. For more information, please visit http://www.usacycling.org/news/user/story.php?id=95. How many other cycling coaches do you know? (If you're reading this blog, well, probably at least three, but that's beside the point.)

I'll eventually work toward becoming a Level 2 and Level 1 coach. At the very least, I'd like to learn much more about the physiology of periodization of training. The question is, when?

If you want further proof, check out the USAC Search Results.

Level up.

Coach Soltren

When I renewed my USCF license this year, I decided to pay the extra $30 for the coaching exam and booklet. I'm working my way through the book, and hope to complete the criminal background check and the exam within the next couple of weeks.

I find it vaguely amusing that the only thing between being a racer and a coach is a 250 page book. I think having the coaching certification will be useful in making me a better racer and a better Bike & Build leader. I may even take clients one day, though I need to start doing better myself and establish a good record before I do that.

After I take this test, I'll be a Level 3 coach. Going on to Level 2 and Level 1 involves more years, and training camps. I'd also like to eventually be an official and a mechanic. It's not hard.