Our Founder - Martha Williams
Martha's journey with cycling began when she was 17 years old. Martha used the money she won from an essay contest to buy her first road bike, even though the award was meant for tuition. At that moment, she just knew that the bike was something she needed. Martha's passion for cycling grew even stronger in 1997 when she discovered the Spinning® Program. She was already working as a group fitness instructor and personal trainer, so when she experienced Spinning® for the first time, she saw it as an amazing way to introduce her students to the joy of cycling. Martha got certified to teach, and it became a major part of her life.
Martha's ambition to become a Spinning® Master Instructor (MI) really took off in 2006 when she attended her first international Spinning® Conference. She was inspired and motivated by the experience, and set a personal goal to join that prestigious group. After many courses, certifications, and years of teaching, she went through a competitive selection process, and in 2011, and was honoured to be chosen as one of just 140 Spinning® Master Instructors worldwide and one of only three in Canada.
Over the decades she has spent leading Spinning® classes, she has realized that being on the bike is about so much more than burning calories or generating watts. It’s all about creating a feeling, building a connection, and helping people tap into their energy and shift their mindset. The best part of her work is witnessing those "ah-ha" moments when students realize their own potential. It's these experiences that inspired her to open Pedal Works Café & Studios—a place where fitness, community, and creativity come together.
Beyond her passion for fitness, she is also an artist, singer, and writer. Martha has always loved finding ways to express herself creatively, and she believes that art, like cycling, has the power to connect people on a deeper level. Her love for coffee and the joy of bringing people together led to the creation of a space that combines all these elements. Pedal Works Café & Studios is more than just a fitness studio; it’s a community hub where people can connect over a great cup of coffee, share in creative experiences, and support one another on their wellness journeys.
The vision for Pedal Works Café & Studios is for everyone to experience the original Spinning® Program and develop a mental, physical, and emotional connection to cycling. There’s nothing quite like the feeling of being on a long, flat road, accompanied by beautiful music and guided by supportive coaching. Martha's goal is to create a space where everyone can tap into that connection and leave feeling stronger, clearer, and truly inspired.
Certifications:
- Spinning® Master Instructor for Mad Dogg Athletics (since 2011)
- Certified over 1300 instructors (internationally)
- Facilitated 100+ instructor certifications
- 30+ years of experience in the fitness industry
- Conference Presenter - DCAC, SPEX, YMCA, canfitpro
- ACE Certified
- Mat Pilates Certified
- Spin® Power Certified
- First Aid/AED Certified
- Mental Health First Aid Certified
- US Cycling Coach Level II Certified
- Cycle-Ops Power Certified
Testimonials
"It's a safe place to just get better." - J Thornton
In the summer of 2023 I bought a bike to get back into shape and found that riding it was more difficult than I had imagined. I was constantly out of breath, often had a racing heartbeat, and found hills excruciating. I once loved cycling, and now hated it! It was really a wake up call for me - I’m in my 50’s and if I am going to enjoy an active life, after years of working and raising kids, I had to find a program that worked for me, or things would just continue downhill.
That fall I joined Pedal Works with no expectations - I found the first classes very difficult, but I liked the chill atmosphere and everyone was friendly and encouraging. Martha was specific on structure, but flexible on effort. It was a safe place to just get better.
I committed to myself to go three times a week; and then went more often as I really started enjoying the de-stressing of a class after work. Classes were as hard as I made them, and my power and form improved incredibly quickly in a few months of consistency. My blood pressure went from high to normal, and I no longer would get a racing heartbeat!
The summer of 2024 was very different - My wife and I chose to do bike vacations - riding hundreds of kilometres through the forests of Quebec and British Columbia, and I now do gravel or mountain biking after work and on the weekends. I still find some hills excruciating 🙂
What surprised me the most was that I enjoyed doing it, and that once you get over the hump of the first few weeks, was how quickly I could feel the changes both physically and mentally. Thank you Martha !!!!
"Pedal Works is the first place where I actually feel like a member when I walk in." - J Marchand
My experience at Pedal Works has been incredible. I started cycling on gravel at the beginning of the pandemic and I loved it immediately. But during the winters I would just sit and wait for the snow to melt so I could bike again. Spin classes downtown didn’t appeal to me but a friend and fellow cyclist told me about Martha’s studio - she said it was supportive and warm with really good vibes. I decided to try it out and I’m completely hooked on the place! I’ve joined other classes and spaces before and I’ve never felt like a belonging member, I’m used to feeling like a guest and an outsider of sorts. Pedal Works is the first place where I actually feel like a member when I walk in. I feel so welcome and comfortable in the space. On top of that, the classes are great and the memberships are actually affordable! I’ve been recommending it to everyone I know. Oh - and the coffee is delicious! I have so much gratitude to Martha for opening this space and making it such a beautiful and welcoming place to spend my precious down time.
"Her passion, wealth of knowledge and coaching style ensures safety and effectiveness" B. Wylie
“I took spin classes with Martha several years ago. It was a unique and exhilarating experience and so much more than a great cardio workout. The environment, including dimly lit space, inspiring background music and Martha’s words of encouragement transport the rider and simulate a perfect and challenging outdoor ride. I was thrilled to hear that Martha opened her very own spin studio, Pedal Works Café & Studio in Kingston. The space is gorgeous! In addition to Spin, Yoga and Restorative classes you can meet friends for coffee in the café and check out the art studio. It’s truly a one stop shop! I’ve taken several classes in the new space and continue to be blown away! Martha’s approach to spinning is truly special. Her passion, wealth of knowledge and coaching style ensures safety and effectiveness in the classes.”
"Pedal Works is a hidden gem in Kingston that deserves your discovery!" V.O.Rigault
I had an absolutely amazing experience at Pedal Works for my book launch. From the moment I walked in, I was impressed by the cleanliness, professional staff, and warm atmosphere. The luxurious and inviting ambiance created the perfect setting for my guests. I didn't have to worry about a thing as the behind-the-scenes staff took care of everything, allowing me to focus on being a host. If you're in search of an intimate and luxurious event location with an artistic flare, great coffee, and exceptional customer service, look no further. Pedal Works is a hidden gem in Kingston that deserves your discovery!