a new type of play.
Hi everyone! I’m Claire Petrie (though many still know me as Claire Skelcey or Skelce, which is perfectly fine too). I’m 48 years old, a mum to two boys aged 9 and 6, and born and bred in Bristol. Running is my passion, and I’ve dreamed of a fitness career for years. While “running for a living” seemed out of reach (since I’m not exactly Eilish McColgan or Brigid Kosgei!), I knew I could make a difference as a personal trainer because I genuinely love people and feel I have something to offer. So, when the joys of 2020 hit and the world went sideways I decided it was time to take the leap – you’re never too old to try something new!
Now a qualified personal trainer, I’m on a mission to help women find joy in fitness, movement, and connection. My aim is to remove the fear from the gym and the competition from running because I believe exercise should be about PLAY – it should be fun!
My services include personal training, remote coaching, Plogging, and, hopefully, a trail running and coffee club soon. One day, I’d love to lead a running club for arts professionals (because that industry is tough, and I think running could really help). I’d also love to host a punk rock 10k because, honestly, that would be epic!
For now, Play is a place to be yourself, get fit, gain confidence, build strength, make friends, discover new passions, take on new challenges, manage menopause (don’t get me started – lots more to come on that!), and achieve your goals.
I know gyms can be intimidating, with strange machines, goblet squats, and 60kg dumbbells. I want to break down those barriers and make every woman feel welcome and safe. I’ll guide you through it all. If you’re a regular at the gym but need direction, I can help with that too—and I’ll tailor everything to you. Love Northern Soul? Done. Punk rock? Got it. Never done a burpee? No problem; we’ll learn together.
So, if you’re ready to get fit in a fun, friendly environment, come and play. You never know what you might fall in love with.
