Ethical practice, rider care and safeguarding are central to responsible indoor cycling instruction.
Instructors work in close proximity to riders, often in high-intensity environments where trust, communication and judgement matter.
This guidance sets out the principles that underpin ethical behaviour, duty of care and safeguarding within the context of indoor cycling practice supported by the Indoor Cycling Institute.

Ethical practice

Ethical practice in indoor cycling is grounded in respect, professionalism and responsibility.
Instructors are expected to act in ways that prioritise rider wellbeing, maintain appropriate boundaries and support a positive, inclusive class environment.
Ethical practice includes:

• Treating riders with respect and fairness
• Communicating clearly and honestly
• Avoiding behaviour that exploits authority or influence
• Recognising the limits of one’s role and competence
• Acting in a way that reflects positively on the profession

Rider care and duty of care

Indoor cycling instructors have a duty of care to the riders they lead.
Rider care involves creating an environment where participants feel safe, supported and able to engage at an appropriate level for their needs and abilities.
This includes, but is not limited to:

• Encouraging appropriate screening and disclosure where relevant
• Supporting correct bike set-up and technique
• Providing clear instruction and supervision
• Monitoring riders during sessions and responding to signs of distress
• Allowing and encouraging riders to modify effort where needed

Rider care is not about eliminating challenge, but ensuring challenge is purposeful, informed and appropriate.

Safeguarding

Safeguarding in indoor cycling relates to the protection of participants from harm, abuse or inappropriate behaviour within the scope of instructional practice.
Instructors should be aware of their responsibilities to:

• Maintain appropriate professional boundaries
• Avoid physical contact unless necessary and consent-based
• Use language that is respectful and non-demeaning
• Be alert to situations that may place riders at risk
  
• Follow venue or employer safeguarding procedures where applicable

Safeguarding responsibilities may vary depending on the setting, the population being taught and local policies. Instructors are expected to work within the procedures of the venues or organisations they operate in.

Context and responsibility

The Indoor Cycling Institute provides guidance on ethical practice, rider care and safeguarding as it relates specifically to indoor cycling instruction.
This guidance does not replace legal obligations, employer policies, statutory safeguarding requirements or professional judgement.
Instructors are responsible for understanding and complying with the safeguarding procedures and policies of the venues, organisations or jurisdictions in which they work.

Relationship to ICI Professional Standards

This guidance supports the ICI Professional Standards by outlining expectations related to behaviour, responsibility and care for riders.
It informs education, resources and professional development delivered through ICI programmes and is intended to support reflection and good judgement in practice.

Ethical practice, rider care and safeguarding are not additional features of good instruction. They are fundamental to it.