About this course

Cycling is more than physical activity; it’s a powerful way to learn. This course blends practical cycling with academic reflection, balancing on-the-bike teamwork and in-class leadership, strategy, and personal development. You will experience 16 double lectures total, split evenly between 8 on-the-bike sessions and 8 classroom sessions.

On the bike you will practice cycling tactics, develop team dynamics, and experience the challenges and rewards of executing strategy on the road. You will learn how to plan a ride, communicate on the bike, ride in group formations, bike maintenance, and use click pedals.

In class you will read and discuss selected articles on strategy, leadership, and organizational behavior, linking theory directly to your team’s experience on the bike. You will also learn from former pro cyclists.

The course is open to anyone who can ride a bike—no advanced skills needed! We encourage students from all majors to enroll, creating a varied learning environment in this business class. Cycling as part of a team fosters a sense of camaraderie and belonging, providing an engaging platform for personal growth while cultivating leadership abilities and effective teamwork.

Curious to learn more? Check out our Shifting Gears Instagram account below for an inside look.

Syllabus

Fall 2026

This is the most recent syllabus for this course

Go to syllabus

Course note

To participate in this course, you must be comfortable riding an ordinary bike, willing to bike in all weather conditions, and learn the rules of the road.

Faculty

Henriette Rald

International Politics, University of Copenhagen, 1996. Owner & Director Rald & Co, Strategy Consulting Business, 2018-present. With DIS since 2022.

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