Running the Distance: The Inspiring Journey of Personal Trainer Kate McNally
Just the other day a client asked me how I got started. I have been a trainer now for 15 years! It’s been a while since I thought back to how I got where I am. The answer is running. No, I didn’t run here. Running brought me here.
I found running in high school. One day walking down the hall between classes I noticed a poster on the wall urging students to sign up for the indoor track team. On whim- I did. I knew I could run around my yard- why not a track?? Woof! Practice was an eyeopener. I remember seeing stars after my first 600m sprint. Luckily I had a great coach and overtime I got better. Seeing and feeling my body transform was life changing. I was doing better in school and my self esteem skyrocketed. I was hooked on running.
Sharing that feeling with others became a goal. In college, I decided to major in physical education. After graduating, in 2008, I started substitute teaching. That first summer out of college (mostly just because I needed money) I got a job as a personal trainer. Turns out I was actually pretty good at it. The rest is history.
I ended up at Mike’s Fitness in 2010. Where I train a variety of clients. Many are runners, but not all. Known for my patient, gentle approach that still kicks your butt I developed a solid following of older generation folks. Skills like balance and strength that are key to running – also super important to the aging population. Years of experience has given me a deep well of knowledge to pull from as I work with clients of all ages and abilities.
When I meet with clients I always spend the first few minutes discussing how they feel. Setting intentions for the workout that day. Paying attention and listening so that I can specifically tailor the workout to their changing needs. I ask “How do you feel?” a lot! It’s important to stay in tune with the people you are training in a deeply personal and real way.
A typical workout with me starts with a warm up. Usually a series of dynamic movements repeated 2-3 times. Then we move into strength. Focusing on fundamental functional movements. Next, depending on the client’s condition and goals we either finish with a core circuit or some kind of metabolic finisher (that gets the heart rate up). Always leave a workout with me feeling better than when you started.
I have a BS in Physical Education and Movement Arts. I am a NASM Certified Personal Trainer. As well as RRCA run coach, GGS Pre/ Post Natal Coach, AFFA Group EX and FMS.
To sign up for your special coaching session with Kate or for more information, feel free to drop by the gym or Contact Us.
