Competitive cyclist to host winter training sessions open to the community

This is the time of year when avid cyclists begin planning their training for next year and the rest of us are plotting how to avoid gaining 10 pounds during the holidays. Folks in either category now have an exciting option available in Oak Park. Pedaling With A Purpose (PWP) is an indoor cycling program led by Category 1 Competitive Cyclist, Kristen Meshberg. Now in its ninth year, PWP offers cyclists of ALL levels weekly training opportunities to push themselves.

"It's great triathlon training or cross training for running, it's also awesome for people who are very out of shape and want to change that" explains Meshberg. "When I began this program I was a mom looking to get her body back – it really is for everyone."

Moms are just one demographic Kristen is hoping to connect with this in these training sessions. A number of Oak Park cyclists have attended her other locations in the past. The program is sold in a punchcard format, referred to as a session pass, making it a flexible option. Participants may purchase a session pass for the Oak Park training sessions, or a larger session pass that is good at the other PWP locations. Oak Park sessions will be held on Tuesdays at 9:30am at Greenline Wheels, located at 105 South Marion Street in Oak Park, beginning Tuesday, December 4th. Cyclists may bring their own road bike or use a Greenline Wheels bike. Bikes may be stored at Greenline Wheels for a small additional fee. Registration may be completed at Greenline Wheels or via mail.

More information and a PDF brochure are available on the Greenline Wheels' website. Contact Meshberg directly atkmeshberg@comcast.net or visit her blog, pwppedalingwithapurpose.blogspot.com.

More About Kristen Meshberg...

Kristen Meshberg, a former Chicago Bike Messenger, got her start competing in Olympic Distance Triathlons in 1997. After taking a break from competition to have two children, she worked her way back to elite level racing. In 2009 she was a Category 1 racer and manager for the domestic professional women's team, "Team BH USA". Currently Kristen continues to compete nationally and rides for Spidermonkey Cycling on the road and George Garner Cyclery Team on the track. In 2012, Kristen earned her Category 1 track upgrade. Kristen holds a USA Cycling Coaching license, is a certified ACE personal trainer and coordinates the winter training program to help keep cyclists in shape through the winter months. She is passionate about getting people involved in the sport and making it accessible to everyone, especially women.

Greenline Wheels, L3C

Greenline Wheels, an Illinois L3C, seeks to reinforce the values of the Oak Park-River Forest community and contribute to its vibrancy by renting ecologically friendly transportation, encouraging safe cycling in the local area, and promoting engagement with local businesses and organizations.