Meet the Team: Cath, Fuel Founder

Meet Cath Cookson, founder of Fuel Coffeehouse + Kitchen, Instinct’s in-house healthy food cafe…

I’m Cath, long term member of Instinct, founder of Fuel Coffeehouse + Kitchen and a PR and Marketing Consultant in the retail and property sectors.

I have three teens (Ella – 19, Becca – 16 and Tom – 13) plus two lovely step-daughters (Beth who works part-time on reception at Instinct – 20 and Kate – 23). My partner Jon and I have been together 8 years and live just outside Tarporley. I started my career in a busy Government press office in London before moving into consultancy. Lived in the south of England for many years (London and Surrey), plus Manchester and finally settled back in Cheshire 10 years ago. Love it here!

What do you like to do in your spare time?

Classes at Instinct of course, walking my two dogs Jess and Ned, family time, holidays, visiting my parent’s place near Criccieth, seeing friends, cooking (although I confess a bit less at home now I do it for work too!).

Why did you decide to set up Fuel and what do you enjoy about it?

I met Dan Jones (original founder of Instinct) and Chris a few years back as a member. I was never particularly sporty when I was younger and had hardly ever stepped in a gym, but took up running at 40, entered some half marathons and then got hooked on Instinct classes. When I heard about the exciting plans for 78 High Street, I offered to join them running the cafe. It has been great fun and I love working with all the team at Instinct.

I’ve always been interested in food and healthy eating and it has been great to work with the trainers and Carolyn on developing the menu and being part of the nutritional offer here, which is obviously integral to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. We have such lovely clients and it is a pleasure to come to work, cook for and chat to them.

What is your favourite Instinct class?

Probably method, although I do love a spin class and box too.

What is your favourite exercise?

Running and the rower probably, but like the variation at Instinct so any really (on a good day).

What is your least favourite exercise?

I find the prowler and overhead medicine ball throws tough!

Tell us 3 random facts about yourself

• I’m a scout leader – dib dib dib (which translates as ‘do your best’)
• Love dancing (badly – think zebedee doing northern soul)
• My one true skill is reverse parking – not that useful!

What is your quote to live by?

I think I’ll stick with ‘Do your Best’ but enjoy it too.

Don’t forget to pop into Fuel Coffeehouse + Kitchen to see Cath and Carolyn, and try out some of their delicious, healthy recipes and protein smoothies!

Fuel have recently been nominated for ‘Healthy Eating Company’ at the British Fitness Awards, click here to vote for Fuel.