The Chainlink

Kristen Meshberg, Owner, Pedaling With A Purpose

Say hi to Kristen here!.

Learn more about Kristen's training program, Pedaling With A Purpose, on the brochure.pdf and her blog.
></center> <u>1) How/when did you get into cycling as a profession?</u><br> In 1996 I started as a bike messenger. After that I got into triathlons and then started bike racing on the road and track. I started at the bottom, which for women is category 4, and worked my way up to category 2. For various reasons I plateaued as a mediocre cat 2 and decided to end my cycling career and start having babies. After having 2 kids, I never really thought I'd get back into racing. I had gained 90 pounds and become a stay at home mom. I found that I needed an outlet and I desperately needed to get back into shape! A friend of mine suggested that I start an indoor training program to help cyclists get through the winter. We started small, but it was incredibly motivating to have all these people riding together in the winter. Through this program called

2) How does your organization directly benefit cyclists?
This will be the 7th year we've been running PWP. We've had a couple of state champs come up through the program, but we've also made a bunch of people happy that don't race, and don't plan on racing. It's the only time in cycling that all abilitiy levels can work out next to each other and everyone can get a great workout. We really have a diverse group of people and we always end up forming a tight-knit community each year.

3) Do you specialize in a certain type of cycling?
I am a criterium specialist, and I like track racing. I'm also drawn to stage racing, though I'm not known for my climbing skills.

4) What are your "must-have" items for cycling (this could be a tool, an accessory, a food, etc.)
A new bike. I love all of the high tech stuff. People that are new to cycling are always afraid they're "not good enough" to get a top of the line bike. I say go for it! The high end stuff really is nicer, and it makes you like riding your bike more, and the more you ride the better you'll get! That said, if you can't afford the good stuff, just ride what you have!

5) What do you see as the biggest area of opportunity in your niche market?
My goal is to make indoor training available to everyone, and educate folks on basic training principles. Road Cycling is an expensive sport. There's always something to spend money on, but PWP is one thing that will definitely help you be a stronger rider.

6) How do you think the cycling community has changed in the last year or two?
I am so excited to see so many beginning women getting started in the sport! It's really exciting to see the opportunities for women opening up.

AND FINALLY......

7) If you could go on a bike ride with anyone (living or dead), who would it be?'
Mario Cippolini. I love his riding style and maybe he would give me some sprinting tips!

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