Coach Certification

The IKO Instructor diploma is valid for one year. Instructors must renew membership annually to have a valid diploma again.

Yes. Because the IKO is internationally recognized, earning an IKO Instructor diploma makes it easier to find work around the world. As a member, you’ll also have access to job listings through the “Jobs” section of your personal account.

With IKO Centers in more than 60 countries, there are opportunities to work globally. In addition, the IKO training pathway is designed to support your professional growth—allowing you to progress to higher instructor levels as you gain experience, take on more responsibilities, and unlock even more career opportunities.

You need a smartphone (with a video stabilization app) or a waterproof video camera with 8x to 20x zoom (Go Pros aren’t permitted), a monopod or tripod, a helmet, an impact vest, a kite and a board. You’ll use this equipment during your coach course and to coach students.

Review the latest Assistant and Instructor Manuals and study each trick in the discipline you are certified as Coach Level 1 - Freeride, Freestyle, Wave Riding, Hydrofoil and Wing Foil. The tricks are listed in the Appendices of the Coach Level 1 Manual. Revisit your first aid and CPR course material. Study the Coach Level 2 Manual (which you will receive after enrolling in the course). Practice filming riders with your smartphone or your camera so that you can give students feedback. Ride as much as you can to improve your riding skills. A great Coach is a great rider.

Both Evolution Courses and Clinics train riders in the Evolution disciplines - wing foil, hydrofoil, freestyle, freeride and wave riding.

Evolution Courses usually take place over several hours and are taught by Level 1 Coaches (only one student at a time) or Level 2 Coaches (more than one student at a time).

Evolution Clinics take place over five days at an IKO Center and can only be run by Level 2 Coaches.