Soul Stories: Kat P.

Soul Stories is a series where we shine a light on the incredible individuals who make up our community. Each story will feature a different rider or instructor, sharing their unique stories, passions, breakthroughs and milestones. From inspiring journeys to everyday achievements, we aim to celebrate the diverse perspectives that enrich our community. 

Join us as we dive into their experiences and discover what makes our community so great.

PRONOUNS: She/Her

AGE: 20-30

OCCUPATION: Photographer & Social Media Editor

HOME STUDIO: WVLG

FAVORITE INSTRUCTORS: Melanie, Laurie, Ally J.

HOW OFTEN DO YOU RIDE: 1 to 3 times a week 

“It’s not just the workout but the community, instructors, and the magic that happens in a dark room.”

Meet Kat P., a speed walker who uses SoulCycle to train for her second NYC Marathon, this time on crutches!

How Long Have You Been Riding At SoulCycle?

10 years ago, after seeing my friend in [New York City] posting about it on Instagram and Facebook, I decided to drive for 90 minutes, roundtrip from Greenwich, Connecticut, to try a SoulCycle class. The music, the energy, and the confidence I felt walking out of the room was exactly what I needed at that chapter in my life. As a competitive equestrian, SoulCycle had a team aspect that I was lacking. I loved the team atmosphere, which may sound weird since we’re all on our own bikes.

For 4 years, I’d continue that 90-minute commute a few times a week until a studio opened near my house. Eventually, I moved to the city in 2018. 

What’s your favorite music/artists to ride to? 

 I love Melanie’s Soul & Meditate Mondays at 9:30AM  in the West Village, and I'll never say “No” to a Florence & The Machine theme ride.

Everybody’s got a favorite bike. What’s yours?

Sidebar or the front row, slightly off to the side. I love the energy of being in the front row and I also find utilizing the mirrors next to the sidebar is a great way to check your form.

“It doesn’t matter how big your goals are, SoulCycle helps you find the inner confidence to chase them.”

What Does SoulCycle Do For Your Mind? 

I feel like I have an entire team rooting for me and I know they’ll be on the route to cheer me on as I race walk 26.2 miles on crutches.

What Does SoulCycle Do For Your Body?

I am training for my second New York City Marathon as a racewalker.  I am on crutches because I have a rare complication from foot surgery. Because my ankles can’t handle the typical marathon mileage, SoulCycle, especially with higher resistance, plays a key part in my training.

What Does SoulCycle Do For Your Soul?

It doesn’t matter how big your goals are, SoulCycle helps you find the inner confidence to chase them. 

An Update From Kat:  

For me, this race wasn’t about racing or even running. This was about “chasing joy.” And the people and streets of NYC did not disappoint because that was one of the greatest days of my life.  

[I completed the race in] 7 hours, 38 minutes and 34 seconds. Me. A runner who can’t even run. 

I stood behind the barriers on First Ave wishing that I could run this race for years. You don’t have to be a fast runner. You don’t even have to be a runner. The NYC Marathon is one of the most welcoming races -- to all ages, abilities, and paces. So, if you ever wanted to do this race but didn’t think you were good enough, fast enough, strong enough...2025 is right around the corner.

Congratulations Kat! We are so proud of you. 

We love connecting to our community. If you’d like to be featured in our Soul Stories Series, send us your story here. 

Let’s keep riding together. We’ll see you on a bike soon.