I am running with the American Heart Association’s Minnesota Run with Heart team in the Twin Cities Marathon this year (don’t worry, I’m running the doctor-ordered 10 mile distance). I’m happy to be working with the AHA and the Twin Cities Marathon to raise awareness and funds for heart disease!

From now until race day, I’ll be featuring profiles of our team members on Wednesdays. Today’s profile: Lisa Kalis!

Lisa Kalis Collage

Name

Lisa Kalis

Age

26

Hometown/Current City

Minneapolis

Number of Marathons

No full marathons yet but several 5Ks, the Twin Cities 10 mile, and the Minneapolis Half Marathon.

Favorite Race Completed

The TC 10 Mile was a big accomplishment for me because that was the furthest distance I had ever run.

Favorite Location To Train

Along the Mississippi River – East River Parkway (beautiful scenery makes up for the hills!) .

Favorite Running Pump-Up Song

Really anything upbeat, happy, and motivational.

My Running Secret

There’s a secret to running?!  Someone clue me in… ;)  I’ve noticed I feel my best when I have a smoothie beforehand. Not just an ordinary fruit smoothie… ingredients include OJ, kale, avocado, Greek yogurt, banana, frozen fruit, dry oatmeal, flax seed, and protein powder… mmmmm!!!

Biggest Motivation for Long Runs

Thinking about how good I’ll feel after and listening to music the whole way through that keeps me energized and feeling strong :).

How has heart disease touched you?

Heart disease is in my family and has been the cause of multiple deaths on both sides. I was fortunate to work with the American Heart Association and hear countless stories about how heart disease has affected so many lives. I felt personally touched by these stories and inspired to become an advocate for better health.

Why is running important to you?

Running makes me feel good, strong, and healthy. I’m passionate about our message to build healthier lives, free of cardiovascular diseases and stroke because taking care of ourselves is what will keep us alive. My goal through this training experience and beyond is to raise awareness through education. I want to help people understand that exercising is more than losing weight. Being active and healthy makes your heart happy in more ways than one.

Motivated? Inspired? Please support Lisa’s goal with a donation to the AHA!