How Running Changed Me: Kristie Morris

Kristie wanted to be able to keep up with her three boys, so she started running.

Kristie Morris
Kristie Morris

NAME: Kristie Morris

AGE: 45


HOMETOWN: North Woodstock, New Hampshire

FAMILY: Married with three boys

What prompted you to start working out?

I was tired of not being able to keep up with my kids. They are active boys, and I was a mom who could barely move. I was embarrassed. I didn't want them to be ashamed of me as they got older.

How did you start?

I asked my husband to buy me a treadmill so I could walk/run in our basement. I started slowly and only ran a minute or two. I started losing weight and could run a bit more. My friend knew I had been running in the basement and urged me to run a 5K. I don't know how I did it, but I did! I had never run outside before and in front of people. I cried my eyes out when I crossed the finish line because I was so proud of myself. That was the day I became a runner.

Describe your regular workout routine.

I usually run three to four times a week. I also strength-train and ride my spin bike. I also enjoy biking and hiking with my kids.


Because I'm a schoolteacher and mother of three, I don't have a lot of time for myself. I made a decision to get up early and work out before the day begins. This means 4 a.m. during the school year so I go to bed early!

What's the most rewarding part of your running life?

I just love the fact that I can do it. I was never athletic in middle or high school, but I can run. I'm always so excited to reach a new mileage. My farthest to date is 17.8 miles.

Did you have a weight-loss goal?

When I gave birth to my first son I weighed 238 pounds (I’m 5-foot-5). I thought I would lose a lot more baby weight than I did. I currently weigh 154, but I'm working toward 140. 

What’s the secret to your weight-loss success?

I track what I eat and am diligent. I always have to be aware of what I'm eating and how much I'm exercising. Exercising is key, too. Also, I don't beat myself up. I don't have an all or nothing attitude.


I use My Fitness Pal to track what I eat. I pay attention to calories and don't deprive myself. If we're having a campfire, I'll eat a s'more, but only one, or maybe two, depending on what else I ate that day. 


Find inspiration on social media. I follow lots of pages on Facebook and read lots of health/fitness related articles. Also, don't be afraid to try.

What are your favorite motivational quotes?

My hands down favorite is, "She believed she could, so she did." That is so me.

What's your idea of a Rave Run?

Any Disney race. If all goes well, I'll be signing up for the Glass Slipper Challenge!

What’s your favorite piece of gear?

I love my Brooks Adrenaline GTS and my Yurbuds.

What is your long-term goal?

I just want to be fit, active, and healthy for my boys. I've got to keep up with them skiing and biking. They can keep up with me running!

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