Armstrong's initial foray into competitive cycling saw her racing with a regional team at the Cascade Cycling Classic. By 2002, she joined a local Boise team and later became part of the Twenty16 team in the United States. Her most memorable sporting achievements include winning gold medals in the time trial at both the 2008 and 2012 Olympic Games.

Challenges and Injuries

Throughout her career, Armstrong faced numerous injuries. She underwent three hip surgeries and six hip procedures between 2012 and 2015. Her last hip surgery was in December 2014, and she returned to training by February 2015. In May 2012, she required pins to be inserted into her collarbone following a crash during the Exergy Tour.

Retirements and Comebacks

Armstrong announced her retirement in 2009 to start a family but returned to the sport for the 2011 season. After winning the time trial at the 2012 Olympic Games in London, she retired again but made another comeback in May 2015. She stated, "People ask me all the time, 'Why are you coming back? What's your story?' At the end of the day, you want to know why? Because I can. I love cycling."

Historic Achievements

In 2016, Armstrong became the first athlete in all cycling disciplines to win a specific event at three successive Olympic Games. She claimed gold in the women's individual time trial at the Rio de Janeiro Olympics, marking a significant milestone in her career.

Other Sports and Hobbies

Before focusing on cycling, Armstrong swam at the Junior Olympics at age 17 and competed in triathlon at the 1999 Ironman World Championships in Hawaii. She also competed in track cycling, finishing third in the team pursuit at the 2008 World Cup event in Los Angeles.

Outside of sports, Armstrong enjoys skiing, cooking, eating, spending time with her family, and mountain biking. Her family includes her husband Joe and their son Lucas, born in 2010.

Professional Roles

Armstrong holds a degree in Sport Psychology from the University of Idaho. Besides being an athlete and coach, she works as a community health director at St Luke's Health System in Boise. Additionally, she co-owns K-Edge Cycling Solutions, a component manufacturer that started by designing chain catchers for her Olympic bikes.

Philosophy and Future Plans

Armstrong's sporting philosophy is encapsulated by her motto: "You learn to win by learning to lose." Looking ahead from July 2024, Armstrong continues to inspire many with her dedication to cycling and her contributions to community health.