Written by Kathryn Lekas, Editor-in-Chief
Photography by Paul Buceta
Hair & Makeup by Monica Kalra
Working full time while raising four kids and supporting their extracurricular activities is hard. For Krista Fullerton, running is the best stress relief. “Having that release helps me be the best version of myself I can be for my kids and husband,” she explains. Prior to becoming a mom, Krista would run regularly, five days a week. But when she had her first child in 2012, followed by twins in 2014, and a fourth child in 2016, that routine was (not surprisingly) put on the back burner. “I put my focus on our family and raising our children,” says Krista. “I would run when I could, but it wasn’t regularly.” In April of 2023, she decided it was time to find herself again and Krista started running (consistently), this time also incorporating weights. She even competes in running races now. “I recently competed in my first half marathon, placing second overall for women, and first in my age division. I also recently competed in a 10K race—I was first in my age division, and fifth overall for women,” shares Krista. Reprioritizing her passion has had a significant impact on her life, especially considering the positive effect that’s had on her family. Since her children are her motivation to stay strong, Krista says having their support means everything to her. “Hearing your 12-year-old child tell you that they’re proud of you for completing a half marathon is such an incredible feeling.
“Mom guilt is a very real thing. But it is important to prioritize yourself too—we often forget that.”
Also, watching my kids become involved in cross country and joining school teams, knowing I’m their inspiration, is one of my biggest accomplishments,” says Krista, who likes to run a minimum of three days a week with two days of weight training. To stay on track with their busy lifestyle, Krista says meal preparation is also key. “I keep protein in my fridge at all times. Especially during the winter, when we are often out for sports practices and games. Having protein options available to grab and go really helps,” Krista explains. It’s something she will keep top of mind moving into winter and putting more focus on weights and new fitness goals. “I have been doing DEKA training and hope to compete in my first competition towards the end of the season, before I begin training for another half marathon,” she says. Krista also believes having her coach, Victoria Toffan, by her side has played a significant role in her evolution.
“Without Vic’s guidance, support and knowledge, I wouldn’t be where I am today. She guides you to achieve a level you didn’t know you were capable of, but also understands that life happens and we’re all human!” Krista says. By sharing her journey, Krista hopes other women will remember they are worth an investment in themselves, too. “As a mom, it is easy to put your children, husband, and everyone else’s needs ahead of yourself. Mom guilt is a very real thing. But it is important to prioritize yourself too—we often forget that,” she says. “Making 30 minutes a day for yourself is okay. You can’t pour from an empty cup, and only you can take care of you!”
