Interview with Ipswich Run Leader Katinka

How and why did you start running?

I started in the first beginner’s course. I had run before (years ago) but had lost my mojo and wanted to get back into doing something. I had been looking into getting back to doing something sporty. I had signed up for a Jaffa beginner’s course but didn't complete it as I had injured my leg. Just by chance I was speaking to Emma and she told me about the beginner’s course. I started it and enjoyed it. I was there from the beginning. It certainly made my mojo rear its head... 😂 

How did you feel first time out as a RL?

Emma asked me to become a run leader after that first course. That was when we started the Tuesday free runs at Christchurch Park. In the beginning I was nervous about being a RL but that was just for a short time. In the beginning we were all learning. The women in this group have all been fantastic and very lovely. 

How does running/Jeffing make you feel?

I now Jeff. I had to learn how to do it and it took some time to get my head around it, as I used to try to run all the way through. I now find that with Jeffing that I have more stamina and I don't hurt the next day. I am NOT a fast runner and I know that I never will be. I am chuffed with what I can achieve and have achieved. 

Why motivates you/how do you combat front-door-itis? 

I enjoy running but at times find it hard to go out. I always put it off and do something else. I have even cleaned my oven in my running gear before, just because I was putting off going out! 

I go through phases of running... Life gets in the way... But I must admit that I always feel better after I have gone for a run. Mentally and physically. I can wear my smug pants all day! 

What's your favourite ICR route/training session? 

I like running around the Waterfront and also Christchurch Park. I have done a race in Felixstowe before and I think that running there is wonderful. We have done a sunrise run in Felixstowe and I loved it. We are lucky to have such nice areas near us. 

At the moment I am taking part in ICANJAN. I am loving all the different taster sessions that we are doing. I also took part in it last year. Through that I have started pilates and I have also done a few sessions at Core Club. A couple of weeks ago I did a Core Club boot camp and I am doing one on 1st February. It is hardcore but fun. I only got into this through a taster session at last year's ICANJAN course... 

What's your favourite running gear?

I like running leggings and I always wear a headband. Otherwise I am a sucker for layers; I get cold very quickly and get back pain so I always layer up! I would rather strip off a top than be too cold.