Today we’d like to introduce you to Bethany Rutledge.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Bethany. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
Prior to 2012, my husband John and I struggled to complete our bike training in Atlanta traffic. Not only did it take forever—between stoplights and traffic a one hour ride easily took two—it also felt downright dangerous. Others felt the same way. On more than one occasion we discussed how amazing it would be to have a hub, a clubhouse, where we rode side by side with friends.
So we decided to create our own. We found the perfect home next to Podium Multisport, a wonderful triathlon shop, in Druid Hills near Emory. Partnering with two friends from Atlanta Triathlon Club, Jim Boylan and Ted Morris, we opened Energy Lab in fall 2012.
Energy Lab began as a power based cycling training studio for all levels of riders. We also offer one on one swim coaching and triathlon coaching. Our coaches and instructors help athletes of all levels prepare for their triathlon and cycling races.
We are very closely aligned with Atlanta Tri Club. Members of the club have access to all of our amazing classes. And Atlanta Tri Club also offers daily training sessions in swimming and running to complement our efforts.
That said, you don’t have to be a member to join in on the fun. We also offer class packs and drop-ins for those looking for the occasional ride.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The first few years we struggled a lot with technology. Our goal was to display metrics from twenty five riders on several screens, with data pulled from several different types of bikes and trainers. There’s a lot of technology for that now, but in 2012, we were pioneers. There was nothing out there to meet all our needs so we had a cobbled together system with things constantly going wrong. Fortunately, we had a lot of understanding riders who stuck with us until technology options and our own expertise improved.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Energy Lab and Atlanta Tri Club – what should we know?
Energy Lab is a power based cycling studio that also offers one on one coaching and swim lessons. We help athletes of all levels learn, train, and perform to their potential. Our coaches work as a team using the latest technology and research to optimize training. We try to keep things very process oriented and positive for our athletes.
I’m proud of the fact that we really are able to help all level of athlete. We have athletes who hope to someday complete a sprint triathlon (short one to two hour race), all the way up to long distance athletes with visions of winning their categories. And, those athletes can ride side by side in our studio, something that wouldn’t work outside.
Another thing I’m proud of is, though our technology is advanced, you don’t need to know anything to get started. We can get someone brand new up to speed in about fifteen minutes.
I’m also proud of our partnership with Atlanta Tri Club, our group training arm. Through the club, we have a group of forty coaches that make daily training sessions throughout the city. We also have a wonderful General Manager, Tim Myers, who keeps everything running smoothly.
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
Perseverance is an important quality for most things worth pursuing. Things will rarely go as you expect. It’s great to have partners for this reason. When one person is discouraged, the other may have a different perspective or a fresh look at the issue.
Pricing:
- $20 dropin class, $150 for a ten pack
- We also offer monthly memberships. Our all access package is $75 a month and you’ll have access to all our cycling classes as well as our group bike rides and swims
Contact Info:
- Address: Tim Myers- General Manager1167A Zonolite Place NE, Atlanta
- Website: Energylabatl.com, atlantatriathlonclub.com
- Phone: 4705885282
- Email: info@energylabatl.com
- Instagram: http://instagram.com/energylabatl
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/energylabatl/
Image Credit:
Rich Reed
@lfabian0326
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