Katie Skinner is a new member who was introduced to running as a way to cross-train for dancing. Read more to learn about her journey through running, how she found out about PPTC, and how she navigated the past year.

How did you get into running?

I'm a dancer, so over the past couple of years I've enjoyed running as a way to cross-train (read: never more than two miles, and definitely not outside in cold weather 😉). Last year I started taking a couple of classes at Mile High Run Club and got a little more serious about "showing up" to running. I enjoyed the upbeat music, being surrounded by other people with a similar goal, and ultimately, I enjoyed someone telling me what to do. I think it aligned a little with my dance training and I was quickly able to form a stronger connection with running.

Why did you join PPTC?

I joined PPTC to be a part of a community. It's hard to find community, or at least feel rooted in community, now that we're all based out of our homes we are essentially told to stay away from people. I'd see so many PPTC jerseys and shirts in the park, so I decided to look it up and see what it's all about.

What is your favorite club event/activity?

My first run was the Halloween Run and it was such a great introduction to the group! Since then, I've been able to participate in one other group run. I feel that the opportunity to meet up with other runners and just run is amazing. Even though I'm just a lurker on the forum (for now!), I really love reading all the updates on races, updates within the club, gear recommendations, and more. Again, it makes me feel part of something larger. I'm so thankful for that.

“I’m getting out for a run when I can! I’m focusing on keeping safe and cross-training. Running less has made me really appreciate it more.”

What distance do you most enjoy about running/racing? Why?

I'd say the 5-6 mile range is my favorite at the moment. The first 1-1.5 miles always make me feel like "Okay, fine, I'm doing this" and then after that it is pure bliss. So if I run only 3 miles, I don't feel the reward as long as I'd like to. Getting to the 5-6 range lets me live in the bliss a bit longer.

Has the pandemic changed how you run/race at all? Why?

Yes! For the better, really, because I've been graced with more time for myself. I can get outside to run nearly everyday (the winter has complicated things a bit!).

I ran my first Half Marathon in October, which was really exciting. I can't wait to race in person.

I had a personal challenge of running (at least) 5K a day in December, it did not go exactly as planned. I spent about three of the December weeks in the Midwest, and the weather conditions there were brutal! I wasn't prepared with the proper gear to take on the weather, so I adjusted my plan to include either a 5k run, 5k walk, or (at least) 32 minutes of indoor cardio work. All-in-all, it was great to have a goal to stay active every day in December.

My running in January and February has been less than usual. I'm juggling the mending of a strained hamstring and an apartment move, but I'm getting out for a run when I can! I'm focusing on keeping safe and cross-training. Running less has made me really appreciate it more. I'm definitely looking forward to warmer (and less slushy) days!

Running has really helped me get through so much. I know life will resume in a different way in the upcoming months, but one thing I am hoping to carry with me is a commitment to running at least 3 days a week no matter what the circumstances.

What is your favorite [running] memory with the club?

I'm still so fresh to PPTC, so I am sure there will be many, many memories to come!

PPTC is a diverse and supportive team. We want to showcase and celebrate the diversity of our club and membership, and encourage everyone to share your stories with us.

Text & Photo: Katie Skinner
Edited by: Alison Kotch and Linda Chan
Produced by: Rachael DePalma

Member Spotlight | Katie Skinner