DRAFT Magazine

Here’s a man who covers all his bases when it comes to an active lifestyle.

I first met Pete Ignasiak when he worked at my health club while he was studying Kinesiology and Pre-Physical Therapy in school.

I’ve also ended a mountain bike ride with a beer at the local bike shop where he works.

Pete talks to the Beer Runner about the thirstiest sport, his favorite local beer and calorie counting.

Thumbs up for beer and bikes

You’re into mountain biking, soccer, canoeing, disc golf, snowboarding and tons of other sports. Which sport that you participate in has the biggest beer enthusiasts?

Mountain biking for sure. It seems that beer is a necessity for this sport. Whether you are racing or just out riding, nothing tastes better than a post ride beer with your friends.

I saw that you are a member of the “Yes, I’m from Wisconsin. Now get me a beer” group on Facebook. This group has 4,110 (and counting) members. Anyway, what would be your contribution to the “Best Beer in Wisconsin!!!” topic?

My contribution to that topic would have to be Lakefront Brewery’s Riverwest Stein, if you like dark beer. I’m a big fan of this one for its big flavor and hoppy goodness.

You’ve worked in a bike shop. Which do bike shop employees love more: Beer or bikes?

I would say bikes, not everyone I’ve worked with drinks beer. However, there are a number of people from the shop who would enjoy a good beer.

You’re a big outdoorsman. What’s your favorite outdoor spot to do something active, and what about your favorite place to crack open a beer?

My favorite place to crack open a beer would have to be at the campsite, after a long bike ride or a hike or something. Another good place is after a mountain bike race with the friends you just raced against.

Is there anything in your study of the human body — anything that all — that would suggest that beer is a good thing for you?

No, nothing that I have studied in school would suggest that beer is good for you. Nutritionally, beer has a lot of calories and carbohydrates that an active person should consider, especially the really good, tasty beers. The more you drink, the longer the workout.

Anything else you’d like to add?

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is important to me, and enjoying beer is a good reward for doing so, in moderation of course.