THE 3 LEVELS OF MOUNTAIN BIKE LEADER QUALIFICATION
MIAS Level 1 (non-technical terrain)
This qualification is aimed at those who wish to lead groups of beginners in non-technical terrain (forest tracks, canal towpaths etc). Basic Skills - allowing access into low-level terrain, with little potential hazards. i.e. country parks, canal towpaths, bridleways and cycle paths in non-wilderness areas where help is almost immediately accessible. Successful candidates will need to have a current 2 day First Aid Certificate qualification is valid.
MIAS Level 2 (TechnicalTerrain)
This qualification is aimed at those who wish to lead groups of beginners in non technical terrain and intermediate riders in technical (singletrack, rocky, demanding terrain). For low level rides on bridleways and wilderness areas. Intermediate Skills - allowing access into wild country, with the potential hazards that surround such terrain, so good map reading skills will be needed to achieve this qualification. Successful candidates will need to have a current 2 day First Aid Certificate before their qualification is valid.
*Important* MIAS level 1 & 2 courses run at the same time and your performance within the syllabus will determine whether you are awarded the level 1 or the level 2 qualification at the end of the course.
MIAS Level 3 (MountainousTerrain)
This is a qualification for those wishing to lead advanced riders in areas defined as mountainous by mountain training UK. You will already need to be a MIAS level 2 or equivalent and show evidence through your log book that you ride regularly in mountainous terrain. You must be proficient with advanced map reading and use of GPS. You will be able to guide groups beyond 30 mins of cycling assistance. You will require advanced riding techniques to ride unpredictable mountainous terrain with drops up to 1 metre and a high level of group management. AALS may require you to hold additional qualifications to work in this terrain (e.g. ML or equivalent qualifications, approved prior learning). Includes Red and Black bike park trails. You will be assessed within the same syllabus as lower levels but all areas need to be performed to a higher level and on more difficult terrain.
Training and assessment syllabus
Below is an outline of all the topics that you will learn about and be assessed on whilst on MIAS courses and assessments;
Group management Communication Coaching skills Navigation Route planning Risk assessment Management Legal issues Recording systems Access & conservation Equipment requirements Riding skills Emergency repairs
The qualifications have a national accreditation with The Association of British Cycle Coaches (A.B.C.C.), Cyclist’s Touring Club (C.T.C.) and is recognised by the Adventure Activities Licensing Authority (AALA) and the Association of British mountain Bike Guides (ABMG). Detailed assessment criteria for the MIAS levels can be found here
First Aid Qualification (necessary if you don't have one)
An in date 2 First Aid qualification is a necessity for your MIAS qualifications to be valid.
WHAT IS INCLUDED
3 full days of MIAS training and assessment
MIAS membership fees for 1 year
OPTIONAL EXTRAS
Possibility to bolt on an Outdoor First Aid course if you don't already have this up to date (this is a requirement for a valid qualification)
WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED
Equipment (extensive list can be found further down this page)
Lift Passes/shuttle costs
Travel
Insurance
Accommodation
* Your MIAS Tutor will provide an info sheet specific to location which you will receive once your booking has been made. There will be an accommodation recommendation which will usually be the base for the running of the course.
WHAT EQUIPMENT DO YOU NEED ? -A well serviced mountain bike (not e bike) suitable for the terrain. A modern all mountain/enduro bike with a dropper post is ideal. - A vehicle to get to different riding locations in the area (not essential as we can van share etc between trainer and candidates) - Helmet - Gloves - Pads suitable for a long day out with climbing (e.g enduro style knee and elbow protection). This comes down to personal preference. - Eye protection (for all conditions) - Appropriate clothing for all weather conditions - Backpack, 20l to 25l is ideal for a guide - Water carrier - First aid kit - Tool kit to facilitate all trail side repairs - Map of the area - Compass (Silva Expedition) - GPS (essential for Level 3 candidates). Either smartphone with relevant apps or Garmin etc. - Portable battery charger for phone and GPS. - Altimeter (level 3 candidates, usually a function on an outdoor watch) - Group shelter 4 - 6 person (Level 3 candidates) - Some basic spare parts for your bike e.g inner tube, rear derallieur hanger, break pads. - Head torch and rear light
You have completed the MIAS pathway and would like to go further...
Once you have completed your MIAS/British Cycling or MBCUK level 1, 2 and 3 you can apply to join the ABMG (Association of British Mountain Bike Guides) and start working towards the ABMG Level 4 and EO mtbing guide qualification.
ABMG AND THE EO-MTBING GUIDE QUALIFICATION
ABMG members are an association of Mountain Bike Guides who work nationally and internationally; they lead, instruct, coach, and guide with professional knowledge and skill.They are collectively, highly qualified riders from world class mountain biking, International Mountain Bike Guides, Adventure Activities specialists and skilled Coaches.
They meet at workshops and hold regular meetings to provide and maintain the high quality of the scheme and respond to the ever changing demands of mountain bikers in the UK and Overseas The Association of British Mountainbike Guides ABMG is the national association that:
- Trains and assesses mountain bike guides in all aspects of leading, guiding, instructing and coaching mountain bike activities. - In partnership with EO-MTBing the European Organisation of Mountain Bike Instructor-Guides, ABMG offers professional standards for services offered by their members. - Promotes safety, enjoyment, and current good practice in mountain bike activities worldwide.
ABMG is an Executive Member of, EO-MTBing the European Organisation of Mountain Bike Instructor-Guides, which is the body that coordinates the standard qualification level of its ten national mountain bike guide associations. A British Mountain Bike Guide is an EO-MTBing Guide, which means an internationally qualified guide with the knowledge and skills to guide worldwide.