Pedaling Through Zug: How Artyom, Milena, and Marta Embrace the Cycling Life in Zug

We had the pleasure of sitting down with Artyom, Milena, and Marta to talk about their passion for cycling—from daily rides around Zug to epic alpine adventures. If they seem familiar, it’s because you’ve probably seen them in many of our route photos and posts on ZugRide, as they joined our photoshoot earlier this August.

Could you briefly introduce yourself and describe your family's setup?

My name is Artyom Romanov. I am 40 years old and work in IT. I am a very active cyclist and triathlete. My wife Milena has picked up cycling only this season but has had great success and conquered many Swiss Alpine passes already.

My daughter Marta is a very keen cyclist too. She rides her bike everywhere. She is enjoying the fact that it is now mandatory to cycle to school on Tuesdays. And she absolutely loves it when we go cycling together.

What initially inspired your family to start cycling together?

We all love this beautiful sport. We also enjoy spending our time together outside. And what better way to enjoy the outdoors than cycling?

What are the main benefits your family experiences from cycling?

“Free” training. We like to keep fit. Also great views :)

How does the wider community play a role in your family’s cycling journey?

The community plays a big part. I joined our cycling club, ZZP (Zug Zurich Peloton), in 2018. It is a great community. I have met many friends and learned a lot of new things. I have also participated in numerous group events (and organized some myself). I introduced Milena and Marta to the club; now they are active members.

What advice would you suggest to families hesitant to start?

There is no need to hesitate. Zug has so many great (and safe) places to cycle - simply go out and enjoy. Start with something small and short and build it up gradually.

How do you motivate your children to participate in cycling activities?

Some could say “free snacks always work” but that is not the best motivation in my opinion. We are trying to be role models in terms of cycling. Marta sees us training every day (indoors or outdoors). She knows we are trying to get more fit in order to be able to, say, climb Furka pass and really ENJOY the views (rather than suffer). She gladly watches pictures from every ride we do. And she even has her own Zwift account!

How do you ensure safety for your family while cycling?

First of all, proper instructions. And helmets are mandatory. Also there are no negotiations of the rules (rules are rules).

What do your children enjoy most about cycling, and how has it impacted them?

Riding with the parents. Taking up a triathlon as well. This whole thing becomes not just a sport - it is a family tradition and value, if not a lifestyle.

What’s the most memorable or rewarding experience you and your family has had while cycling?

I will never forget my first ride with my daughter. I taught her cycling from zero and then we went to the city center for ice-creams the same day (by bikes, of course).

Can you share a story or example of how cycling has made a positive impact on your family’s lifestyle?

I consider myself a competitive cyclist and athlete in general, and I am trying to be a role model for my wife and my daughter. Playing the same sports not only brings you together even closer but also gives you an opportunity to learn from each other.

What is your cycling highlight?

As a family - first triathlon (Locarno) that all three of us took part in. We needed to transport all 3 bikes to Ticino (I had to build special racks for them in order to fit in the car with 3 people). And during the next few days we were racing in turns, cheering each other, holding support posters, etc.

As an individual - crazy rides I have done with my crazy friend Leigh Quince (also member of the ZZP). We cycled across Switzerland (in a day) non-stop twice (North to South and East to West). We also had a non-stop 600k ride once (the C2C or “See to Sea” ride) from Zugersee to Cinque Terra and our wives were supporting us along the road.

What is your favourite place to ride in Kanton Zug?

Once, I climbed Zugerberg 23.5 times in 23.5 hours (I did a 10k Everesting challenge), and I still love it.

What are some misconceptions about family cycling that you’d like to address?

It is not hard. It is not wet. It is just a whole lot of fun!