A master's student in sports education in China has earned 270,000 yuan (US$39,000) over the past two years by teaching hundreds of adults and children to ride bicycles, recently going viral on social media. Set to graduate in June, he plans to refine his teaching methods and expand into nearby provinces.
Li, a third-year master's candidate at Shanghai University of Sport (SUP) majoring in sports education, has taught hundreds of adults and children to ride bicycles over the past two years, earning 270,000 yuan (US$39,000), as reported by the news outlet The Cover.
Years ago, Li and a friend spotted the demand for bike-riding instruction and started a business to capitalize on it. However, his friend soon left the partnership after landing a stable job in Shanghai. Once enrolled at SUP, Li continued teaching in his spare time. He began posting instructional videos on social media platforms and received his first booking within two months.
Li conducts lessons in spacious areas near his clients' homes. He offers a success-guarantee package priced at 800 yuan (US$110), promising that participants will master riding a bicycle by the course's end. With his graduation slated for June, Li intends to improve his methods and extend his services to nearby provinces such as Zhejiang and Jiangsu.
The story highlights surging interest in adult cycling lessons in China, where many never learned the skill due to childhood fears or other barriers. Li's venture demonstrates the opportunities in niche education and leisure services.
