Meet Alyssa Collins, Canmore Instructor

Blazing down the trails of Banff, AB on her trusted steed Joey (a Rocky Mountain Altitude not a horse!), Alyssa Collins wants to focus on you having fun on your bike. But not to worry, you’ll hear her coming, as she’s a self-proclaimed noisy rider. Curiosity drives Alyssa’s biking style, and having a background in both Massage Therapy and doing her yoga teacher training she really understands the foundation and body movements of biking.

When did you first start riding and how did you get into it?

My very first ride on a mountain bike was 6 years ago on Frisbee Ridge in Revelstoke with a whole bunch of my friends. They egged me on to rent a bike and join them. The bike was too big, the climb was hard and the day was hot, and I still had a big smile plastered across my face. The beauty of accessing the mountains by bike, laughing (and suffering) with my friends, and learning something new had me sold.

If you were to describe your riding style in one word, what would it be?
Curiosity. New trails, new movements, new friends, new bikes, so much to continually learn about and explore!

Where do you call home?
The beautiful mountains of Banff Alberta! I absolutely love riding in the Canadian rockies for the views and the people. It’s a great location to visit other bike destinations from as well.

What’s the best thing about mtb for you?
I absolutely love sharing time on my bike with anyone else who is stoked to be on a bike. It’s a great way to get out with your partner, friends and family, and to meet new people in the community.

What bike are you riding right now?
I am riding and loving my Rocky Mountain Altitude, Joey. “Come Josephine, my flying machine…”. I’ve had the pleasure of riding this bike on cross-country trails, at the resort and in races. She has been super fun through it all.

Favourite trail? Ahhhh, the impossible question. Any trail that has me hooting and hollering on the way down… so most, I’m a noisy rider.

Dream destination? I would absolutely love to spend a month getting to know the West Coast (The island, North Shore, Squamish, Whistler, Pemby) of Canada better on two wheels. We are so spoiled to have such great riding right at home!

Favourite after ride drink? Meadjito by Fallentimber! Its like a beer mojito, YUMMMM.

What do you want your students to gain from your coaching/teaching?
First off, FUN! What is mountain biking if not the best time of your life?! What helps elevate the fun? Confidence! I love when I see students riding away feeling stoked to take on their next challenging trail or feature.

What has been the most valuable piece of advice you’ve been given or received in mountain biking or any other sport?
Ride for YOU!