I decided to start including my thoughts on technology as it relates to fitness. I noticed Edutopia always has a fitness section for educators of cool technologies to help with fitness levels or awesome places to go that are fitness related. So I figured I could get away with it. Besides, I am trying for more balance in my life this year and fitness is a part of that. Seven years plugged into this machine has really begun to impact my fitness level. In 2001, I rode the MS 150 and was in the top third. Weight wasnt an issue then. I love bikes. Especially mountain bikes.
So-- as part of my promise to try for more balance in my life I have started seriously riding again. Rode 8 miles yesterday and did 15 miles today-- in the heat and thought I would die. Even got off at the beach and walked for a bit before finishing my ride. For motivation I went to a bike store and bought a new pair of Shimano shoes. I ride a mountain bike and love off road adventures. However, while at the bike shop-- a road bike got my serious attention.
And talk about technology and fitness-- shoes have truly changed since the last pair I bought. They credit the design change to Functional Advanced Composite Technology. This results in incredibly light, stiff soles for
outstanding power transfer. Every ounce of effort is transmitted directly to the pedals thanks to
carbon soles.
The coolest change in Treks since I bought my last bike in 2003 is the new line of Women Specific Design bikes and helmets. Finally, fitness technology is working in favor of women. They have paired up with AMD and I am really all over that because that is my processor of choice as well. I was wondering if any of you have ever known any woman that actually had a WSD Trek?
I know an entry level road bike makes the most sense-- but I have to tell you, the perfomance WSD bikes were definately the ones that caught my eye.
I have to thank my daughter Amber for getting me motivated again about fitness. She has started running and as a result her weight is really coming into line. She also has chosen a career that chains her to her machine, which tends to be counter productive to staying in shape. But her and her dog Kyla have been training for a 5K which is next weekend. She joined Weight Watchers and did a program called couch to 5K and is actually now running for 3-4 miles nonstop. Her blog is so funny as she shares her adventures in trying to get in shape.
Any advice you have about Treks, Tech, or fitness as I rekindle this passion in my life-- feel free to leave a comment.
You are truly an inspiration! I am glad to see you will be doing something relaxing that you enjoy doing since this past year has been so crazy busy. We can all take a cue from you.
Posted by: Jon | July 14, 2006 at 03:19 AM
Keep riding mom! Watch out for that heat!
Posted by: Amber | July 14, 2006 at 10:00 AM
I have also wanted to get in better shape. I walked 3 miles today. I wish I was at the beach because I would ride with you!!! Chariots of Fire you GO!!
Posted by: Queenannelace | July 16, 2006 at 05:55 PM
You go girl.....I hope you can motivate me! I have been trying to get motivated to start exercising all summer....Maybe this is the motivation I needed! Thanks!!
Posted by: Felicia | July 17, 2006 at 07:23 PM
I bought a Trek WSD road bike over a year ago, and it's been a total revelation for me. I never fully realized how I had been contorting my (5'3") body to try and conform to frame designs made for men. My bike is an aluminum frame with a carbon fork and seatpost. I added carbon handlebars because we ride on some difficult surfaces and the vibration was tiring. My bike also has the 650 wheel which changed everything for the better. Also upgraded to America Classic Sprint wheelset--recently available in a 650. I feel like I have total bike control. It is responsive and accelerates quickly as a result of the small wheel. I also don't have to worry about toe overlap. Top tube length, 50 cm, with a 17 degree stem 9cm. This bike is a peach. No more pain. Check out the Specialized WSD seats. Zero pain. Hope this helps.
Posted by: Liz | July 22, 2006 at 01:31 AM
Hi there, found this site by chance. I had not done road riding before (I rode short distances around my town growing up but not really as a serious cyclist) but this year I wanted to get into it, and among other things do a local two day charity ride (153 miles). It is next week and I am getting excited.
Anyway, I got a Trek WSD model and I love it! the bike is light and fits me very well. I also have the 50 cm size and I am 5'3" also. I have not modified the bike from original, and I have no complaints really. The biggest thing was learning to use clipless pedals and getting used to traffic. Cycling has made a huge positive impact on my fitness level and I couldn't be happier about it. I say go for it! You may wake up feeling like a cyclist one day - I did!
Posted by: TR | July 29, 2006 at 11:33 PM