I'm a RRCA certified and VDOT certified running coach, as well as, an ACE certified Personal Trainer. I love the process of training and I love to share the joy and the journey with others! If you have goals and a desire to reach your full potential, feel free to reach out. I'm happy to schedule a free intro call to discuss how I can help.
The numbers:
8 years coaching and over a decade running with a 5 year run streak
26 marathons, 8 Boston Marathons, 3 sub 3 finishes, 2 time Six Star finisher
Numerous other races of every distance from 1 mile to Marathon
For a more detailed backstory of my running history and coaching philosophy please visit the 'about' page of my website. You can also find me on YouTube or Instagram via the links below.
www.coachkrisrs.com
www.youtube.com/@coachkrisrs
@krisrs
Video Introduction
Coaching Products
Description
A half marathon plan for those who have a time goal! This plan has 2 workouts every week in a 5 day training schedule. The peak mileage is 39, the long run maxes out at 15. Targeted pace work maxes at 8 in a single session. Taper is 10 days long and there are no down weeks. This plan is designed for people who have completed at least 2 half marathons and are familiar with speed work.
Plan includes unlimited email communication for help with questions.
Minimum Requirements
Week 1 begins with 25 miles per week and a long run of 8 miles. I recommend having a base of a few 20+ mpw before beginning.
Half marathon training plan with a fully integrated runner's strength program!
This is a half marathon plan for those who have a time goal! This plan has 2 workouts every week in a 5 day training schedule. The peak mileage is 39, the long run maxes out at 15. Targeted pace work maxes at 8 in a single session. Taper is 10 days long and there are no down weeks. This plan is designed for people who have completed at least 2 half marathons and are familiar with speed work.
The strength component will be combined to complement and balance the run training throughout the training cycle. There are 3 strength levels to pick from based on your prior experience.
Plan includes unlimited email communication for help with questions.
Minimum Requirements
Week 1 begins with 25 miles per week and a long run of 8 miles. I recommend having a base of a few 20+ mpw before beginning.
A half marathon plan for those who have a more aggressive time goal! This plan has 2 workouts every week in a 6 day training schedule. The peak mileage is 44, the long run maxes out at 16. Targeted pace work maxes at 8 in a single session. Taper is 10 days long and there are no down weeks. This plan is designed for people who have completed at least 2 half marathons and are familiar with structured training, as well as, speed work.
Plan includes unlimited email communication for help with questions.
Minimum Requirements
Week 1 begins with 31 miles per week and a long run of 10 miles. I recommend having a base of a few 25+ mpw before beginning.
Half marathon training with a fully integrated runner's strength program!
This is a half marathon plan for those who have a more aggressive time goal! This plan has 2 workouts every week in a 6 day training schedule. The peak mileage is 44, the long run maxes out at 16. Targeted pace work maxes at 8 in a single session. Taper is 10 days long and there are no down weeks. This plan is designed for people who have completed at least 2 half marathons and are familiar with structured training, as well as, speed work.
The strength component will be combined to complement and balance the run training throughout the training cycle. There are 3 strength levels to pick from based on your prior experience.
Plan includes unlimited email communication for help with questions.
Minimum Requirements
Week 1 begins with 31 miles per week and a long run of 10 miles. I recommend having a base of a few 25+ mpw before beginning.
A marathon plan for those who are newer to marathon training but who want to run a strong race! This plan has 2 workouts every week in a 5 day training schedule. The peak mileage is 45, the long run maxes out at 20. Targeted pace work maxes at 9 in a single session. Taper is 3 weeks long and there are no down weeks. This plan is designed for people who have completed at least 1 marathon but are still newer to marathon training.
Plan includes unlimited email communication for help with questions.
Minimum Requirements
Week 1 begins with 28 miles per week and a long run of 10 miles. I recommend having a base of a few 25+ mpw before beginning.
Marathon training plan with a fully integrated runner's strength program!
A marathon plan for those who are newer to marathon training but who want to run a strong race! This plan has 2 workouts every week in a 5 day training schedule. The peak mileage is 45, the long run maxes out at 20. Targeted pace work maxes at 9 in a single session. Taper is 3 weeks long and there are no down weeks. This plan is designed for people who have completed at least 1 marathon but are still newer to marathon training.
The strength component will be combined to complement and balance the run training throughout the training cycle. There are 3 strength levels to pick from based on your prior experience.
Plan includes unlimited email communication for help with questions.
Minimum Requirements
Week 1 begins with 28 miles per week and a long run of 10 miles. I recommend having a base of a few 25+ mpw before beginning.
A marathon plan for those who are serious about marathon training but who need a little more recovery! This plan has 2 workouts every week in a 5 day training schedule. The peak mileage is 51, the long run maxes out at 21. Targeted pace work maxes at 10 in a single session. Taper is 3 weeks long and there are no down weeks. This plan is designed for people who have already completed a few marathons.
Plan includes unlimited email communication for help with questions.
Minimum Requirements
Week 1 begins with 30 miles per week and a long run of 10 miles. I recommend having an established base of several 25+ mpw before beginning.
Marathon training plan with a fully integrated runner's strength program!
A marathon plan for those who are serious about marathon training but who need a little more recovery! This plan has 2 workouts every week in a 5 day training schedule. The peak mileage is 51, the long run maxes out at 21. Targeted pace work maxes at 10 in a single session. Taper is 3 weeks long and there are no down weeks. This plan is designed for people who have already completed a few marathons.
The strength component will be combined to complement and balance the run training throughout the training cycle. There are 3 strength levels to pick from based on your prior experience.
Plan includes unlimited email communication for help with questions.
Minimum Requirements
Week 1 begins with 30 miles per week and a long run of 10 miles. I recommend having an established base of several 25+ mpw before beginning.
A marathon plan for those who are serious about marathon training! This plan has 2 workouts every week in a 6 day training schedule. The peak mileage is 62, no doubles, the long run maxes out at 23. Targeted pace work maxes at 12 in a single session. Taper is 3 weeks long and there are no down weeks. This plan is designed for people who are used to training at a high level and for those who have already completed a few marathons.
Plan includes unlimited email communication for help with any questions.
Minimum Requirements
Week 1 begins with 40 miles per week and a long run of 12 miles. I recommend having an established base of several 35+ mpw before beginning.
Marathon training plan with a fully integrated runner's strength program!
A marathon plan for those who are serious about marathon training! This plan has 2 workouts every week in a 6 day training schedule. The peak mileage is 62, no doubles, the long run maxes out at 23. Targeted pace work maxes at 12 in a single session. Taper is 3 weeks long and there are no down weeks. This plan is designed for people who are used to training at a high level and for those who have already completed a few marathons.
The strength component will be combined to complement and balance the run training throughout the training cycle. There are 3 strength levels to pick from based on your prior experience.
Plan includes unlimited email communication for help with any questions.
Minimum Requirements
Week 1 begins with 40 miles per week and a long run of 12 miles. I recommend having an established base of several 35+ mpw before beginning.
Monthly run coaching plan customizable to whatever goals, races and distances you desire.
Includes unlimited emails, weekly in-app commenting and workout review. Plus 1 call per month and a goal race strategy call. Plan delivery is every 2 weeks, with complete flexibility and adaptability to your schedule and needs.
Free consultation intro call. Send me an email to schedule.
** Note: 4 month minimum term commitment, after that plan becomes month to month and is free to cancel at any time.
Minimum Requirements
All you need is a can-do attitude, but a watch is helpful!
Communication
unlimited emails, unlimited text-messages, 1 call per month
Monthly individualized run plan with detailed and personalized strength training fully customizable to whatever goals, races and distances you desire. This is a complete training package program with your runs and resistance training fully integrated.
Includes unlimited emails, weekly in-app commenting and workout review. Plus 1 call per month and a goal race strategy call. Plan delivery is every 2 weeks, with total flexibility and adaptability to your schedule and needs.
Free consultation intro call. Send me an email to schedule.
** Note: 4 month minimum term commitment, after that plan becomes month to month and is free to cancel at any time.
Minimum Requirements
A watch is helpful along with access to some very minimal equipment, few examples include: yoga mat, resistance bands, kettlebells, dumbbells, balance ball. But I will tailor the program to whatever you have.
Communication
unlimited emails, unlimited text-messages, 1 call per month
Competitive Runners, Boston Marathon, Certified Strength and Conditioning, Recreational Runners, Masters Runners
Reviews
5.0
30 reviews
5 - Exellent
4 - Great
3 - Good
PP
Puspesh Puspesh
Jun 16, 2026
★★★★★
So far my training plan is working very well. Thank you so much
Elizabeth Ng
May 6, 2026
★★★★★
I wanted to work with Kristyn because I found her running journey inspiring. Have absolutely loved working with her. As others noted, Kris is very responsive and I feel like each week's training is ta...I wanted to work with Kristyn because I found her running journey inspiring. Have absolutely loved working with her. As others noted, Kris is very responsive and I feel like each week's training is tailored to where I'm at. I know I'm getting a personalised training plan. She's knowledgeable about running and always happy to share that knowledge.
Winston Li
May 3, 2026
★★★★★
I had an incredible and highly fulfilling experience working with Coach Kris for individual coaching! I give her the highest possible recommendation!
To break it down:
1. She is extremely responsive!...I had an incredible and highly fulfilling experience working with Coach Kris for individual coaching! I give her the highest possible recommendation!
To break it down:
1. She is extremely responsive! She answers messages consistently and rapidly! That is so appreciated.
2. She creates a personalized plan! She reviews your training regularly and adjusts the plan to your needs and performances.
3. She is encouraging and provides a proper level of challenge! I always felt she was in my corner, supporting me, while also giving me just the right amount of nudge to make the most of training.
For background, I had never done coaching before and had never met Coach Kris before, so it was a bit of a leap of faith to start! I say this in case you (reader) are in the same boat! It has been so rewarding and I can't recommend her highly enough. I am eager to work with Coach Kris again for a future training cycle! And while so many factors go into a race result- I can share, for whatever it's worth, I ran a 10-year personal best for my goal race and I think her plan was the key to that result!
Julie Doughman
Apr 13, 2026
★★★★★
I had never hired a coach prior to working with Coach Kris, but I really enjoyed the experience! Her direction, knowledge, support, and motivation were invaluable! I would not have been as prepared ...I had never hired a coach prior to working with Coach Kris, but I really enjoyed the experience! Her direction, knowledge, support, and motivation were invaluable! I would not have been as prepared to take on the Tokyo Marathon if I had trained on my own. Having a coach helped me to stay focused and consistently complete the workouts needed to be ready for my race. I highly recommend working with Coach Kris to help reach your running goals!
TM
Tarush Maniktala
Nov 4, 2025
★★★★★
Kris was great to work with! She helped me hit my goal in my first marathon in NYC. Great feedback and flexibility as well, highly recommend.
MO
Marissa Orecchio
Nov 3, 2025
★★★★★
I trained by myself for my half marathon and hit a wall..I had to walk and really struggled to finish. After that, I decided to work with Coach Kris to prepare for my full NYC marathon, and the differ...I trained by myself for my half marathon and hit a wall..I had to walk and really struggled to finish. After that, I decided to work with Coach Kris to prepare for my full NYC marathon, and the difference was incredible!!
From the start, Kris created a plan that fit my schedule, goals, and experience level. Each workout had a purpose, and I could feel myself getting stronger and more confident every week. Kris checked in regularly, offered helpful feedback, and gave great advice on pacing, fueling, and recovery.
On marathon day, I felt so strong and prepared, & nothing like my half marathon experience. I ran consistently, stayed fueled, and truly enjoyed the race. Working with Kris completely changed the way I train and think about running. I can’t recommend Kris enough to anyone looking to run smarter, stronger, and more confidently. I went from never running a marathon to completing my first without walking, and feeling stronger that .
Her guidance on pacing, recovery, and fueling was invaluable, and having her support made the whole process so much smoother. If you’re looking for a coach to help you tackle your next marathon safely, effectively and increase pace I can’t recommend Kris enough.
Maggie Andrulis
Oct 18, 2025
★★★★★
Working with Coach Kris is such a pleasure. Her thoughtful approach to training helped me become the strongest and fastest I’ve ever been (60+ min marathon pb!!), and I couldn’t have made it through t...Working with Coach Kris is such a pleasure. Her thoughtful approach to training helped me become the strongest and fastest I’ve ever been (60+ min marathon pb!!), and I couldn’t have made it through two back-to-back marathons injury-free without her guidance and support. She brings such a great balance of structure, encouragement, and expertise. Every workout felt purposeful and tailored to my goals. I’m so grateful for all I learned from her and for the confidence she’s helped me build as a runner. Highly recommend!
BO
Bonnie O'Shea
May 2, 2025
★★★★★
I worked with Kristin this last training cycle to get ready for the Calgary and London Marathons this spring. I signed up for her strength and run personal trainer program and I couldn’t be happier wi...I worked with Kristin this last training cycle to get ready for the Calgary and London Marathons this spring. I signed up for her strength and run personal trainer program and I couldn’t be happier with the results . This was my very first time using a trainer after many years of running and her insights and encouragement helped me more than I thought possible. Her plan worked so well with my schedule and any pre existing injuries I had mentioned and prepared me perfectly to run London this past April even with the heat. I would definitely recommend her to anyone looking to break out of a rut and look to improve without simply adding extra junk miles like a lot of off the shelf plans do and I strongly suggest you sign up for the strength piece I believe that is the missing link for me that I needed to improve.
Kristen Lile
Jan 8, 2025
★★★★★
Kris is amazing- she has great instincts as to what her runners need, whether that’s encouragement, pep talks, or letting the runner take the reins and work through things in their own time. She is in...Kris is amazing- she has great instincts as to what her runners need, whether that’s encouragement, pep talks, or letting the runner take the reins and work through things in their own time. She is incredibly responsive and quick to help her runners work through any circumstance. She also keeps the workouts varied and fun, giving you a great blend of confidence while pushing to new heights. I look forward to working with her for my next marathon training block, and I’d recommend her to any runner of any level.
RB
Rebecca Ball
Jan 7, 2025
★★★★★
Kristyn is fantastic! She helped me pick good races, train smart, and know when to take care of myself. You definitely want to work with her!
TO
Tristan OKeefe
Nov 22, 2024
★★★★★
I found Kristyn whilst looking for someone to help me go from zero to Marathon and with her help i went from struggling to run all of a half to finishing the NYC marathon without stopping once. Not on...I found Kristyn whilst looking for someone to help me go from zero to Marathon and with her help i went from struggling to run all of a half to finishing the NYC marathon without stopping once. Not only that but i've been left for a thirst for improvement and more races. She is super responsive anytime i have a question and every goal feels achievable. Highly recommend!
Emma Moore
Nov 22, 2024
★★★★★
Coach Kris made a world of difference in my marathon training! I ran New York this past fall and working with her ensured that I had both a productive training block and an enjoyable race. Coach Kris ...Coach Kris made a world of difference in my marathon training! I ran New York this past fall and working with her ensured that I had both a productive training block and an enjoyable race. Coach Kris is very responsive, always ready to answer a question or take a call as needed. The training block pushed me in new ways and I feel fitter than I've ever been.
MM
Mike Mattelson
Jun 4, 2024
★★★★★
Within 10 months of training with Kristyn, I set a PR in the 5k, 10k, and half (was previously trying to hit my half marathon goal for almost two years). She then prepped me and trained me for my firs...Within 10 months of training with Kristyn, I set a PR in the 5k, 10k, and half (was previously trying to hit my half marathon goal for almost two years). She then prepped me and trained me for my first marathon, hitting my “A” goal. Kristyn is such a great coach, training plan builder, and supporter! Can’t recommend her enough!
ME
Miriam Elsendyouney
May 24, 2024
★★★★★
I highly recommend having Kristyn as a running coach. As someone who hasn’t run for years, she’s been fantastic at helping me get started, is able to answer any questions I have and so far training ha...I highly recommend having Kristyn as a running coach. As someone who hasn’t run for years, she’s been fantastic at helping me get started, is able to answer any questions I have and so far training has been great! I’m excited to see what the coming months will bring.
Anne Wright
Feb 1, 2024
★★★★★
Kristyn is excellent at what she does, detailed with her work, and very encouraging and positive!
NM
Neal McDonald
Dec 14, 2023
★★★★★
Only started a month ago but so far so good. I’m actually really enjoying my running again & feel very motivated with all the positive encouragement. Feeling stronger already & excited to see where I ...Only started a month ago but so far so good. I’m actually really enjoying my running again & feel very motivated with all the positive encouragement. Feeling stronger already & excited to see where I may go this time. Couldn’t recommend enough
KO
kiersten owens
Nov 30, 2023
★★★★★
She’s been the best. I year with her I went from 12 min pace to 9 min pace. She has taught me patience and the ups and downs every runner goes through. Highly recommend and am doing my 2nd year with h...She’s been the best. I year with her I went from 12 min pace to 9 min pace. She has taught me patience and the ups and downs every runner goes through. Highly recommend and am doing my 2nd year with her!
PD
Priam Dutta
Sep 1, 2023
★★★★★
I’m a huge fan of Kristyn’s — highly recommend!
CM
Clare Mifsud
Jul 14, 2023
★★★★★
Only been working with Kristyn for the past month and I totally love it. I got back into the fun in running whilst pushing myself to give my best. I would totally recommend her programs.
Zack Fuller
May 4, 2023
★★★★★
Kristyn has coached me to 2 marathon PRs of 2:57 and 2:54 within the last 8 months. I self trained and qualified for Boston in December of 21 but my torturous training routine was not working for my n...Kristyn has coached me to 2 marathon PRs of 2:57 and 2:54 within the last 8 months. I self trained and qualified for Boston in December of 21 but my torturous training routine was not working for my next race. I hired Kristyn a few weeks into a bad training cycle and she completely turned it around. Her plans and advice made a huge difference for me. She knows how to find the perfect level of difficulty and workload to maximize results. I tend to overwork and she has shown me that a balanced plan can be far more effective than doing hard workouts too often. She is knowledgeable and responsive, if you follow her plans you will get results. I hit a 3 minute PR at the Boston Marathon and it wouldn’t have happened without her. If you want to take your running to the next level you won’t find a better coach than Kristyn.
LB
Lila Benini
Apr 27, 2023
★★★★★
After a succession of un-satisfying races and injury niggles, Kristyn helped me find a whole new realm of confidence and to tap into potential that I never knew I had! With Kristyn’s support, I have n...After a succession of un-satisfying races and injury niggles, Kristyn helped me find a whole new realm of confidence and to tap into potential that I never knew I had! With Kristyn’s support, I have not only achieved an 8 min PR in London Marathon with a negative split, I also had the best training cycle I’ve ever had. She took and continues to take time to listen to my questions and help me verbalise what I wanted to achieve into concrete goals. I’m already excited about what I can achieve next! Thank you, Kirstyn!
RN
Riri Nagao
Mar 9, 2023
★★★★★
Working with coach Kris was such a wonderful experience! I stepped away from running for a few years and then found myself needing to get back into marathon shape for the Tokyo Marathon. Couldn't have...Working with coach Kris was such a wonderful experience! I stepped away from running for a few years and then found myself needing to get back into marathon shape for the Tokyo Marathon. Couldn't have asked for a better coach! During the race, whenever I found myself struggling or fading hard, I remembered some of the challenging workouts that Kris had me do and they really got me through the toughest parts of the marathon! She's super knowledgable about running and nutrition, is very reliable and responsive, and truly takes a holistic approach to her coaching!
Ruth Torres
Feb 12, 2023
★★★★★
I’ve been working with Coach Kris for just over one month. Her workouts are achievable and designed to be performed based on my schedule. She is ever attentive and flexible to make changes as needed. ...I’ve been working with Coach Kris for just over one month. Her workouts are achievable and designed to be performed based on my schedule. She is ever attentive and flexible to make changes as needed. I look forward to our continued work together!
Tim Orlowski
Nov 18, 2022
★★★★★
I enjoy working with Kristyn. She gives good tips and advice, and she has always been very responsive.
Lance Tomooka
Oct 2, 2022
★★★★★
Coach Kris is the best! She’s helped me cross two finish lines for two major goal races successfully! She’s been able to help me decide when to push and when I need to take it easier. She’s also ...Coach Kris is the best! She’s helped me cross two finish lines for two major goal races successfully! She’s been able to help me decide when to push and when I need to take it easier. She’s also been crucial in helping me navigate a few minor injuries. She’s always available when I need her and the feedback she gives on training runs has been very helpful and motivating. She listens and makes adjustments and that’s just what I need in a coach!
Madeleine Marshall
Aug 16, 2022
★★★★★
Kristyn is truly the best running coach out there! So knowledgeable about all things running. She will push you hard but is motivational and inspires you to be your best. She goes above and beyond to ...Kristyn is truly the best running coach out there! So knowledgeable about all things running. She will push you hard but is motivational and inspires you to be your best. She goes above and beyond to make sure you are prepared for upcoming races and is truly invested in the entire process. Highly recommend working with her - you would find anyone more committed to helping you achieve your goals!
Angelos Kavouriadis
Mar 25, 2022
★★★★★
Kristyn is great! She is very responsive, she actually tailors the workouts to the athlete’s goals and strengths/weaknesses. Also she not only talks the talk but walks the walk too - she runs over 100...Kristyn is great! She is very responsive, she actually tailors the workouts to the athlete’s goals and strengths/weaknesses. Also she not only talks the talk but walks the walk too - she runs over 100 miles a week and has been achieving PBs herself.
Amy Roskelley
Dec 11, 2021
★★★★★
Kristyn is the best running coach!! My training, consistency and pace had improved more in the last two months, than the 20+ years I've spent running without her!! I HIGHLY recommend Kristyn!
AC
Alexandra Channing
Nov 21, 2021
★★★★★
Amazing working with Kristyn. She’s very knowledgeable and truly cares. She pushed me beyond what I thought I was capable of
DA
Darwing Arias
Oct 9, 2021
★★★★★
Thank you for being such an excellent coach!! I am sure we will continue our work in the near future.
AI SummaryBased on information provided in Kristyn R's profile.
Kristyn R Smith blends eight years of coaching and over a decade running with VDOT O2, RRCA Level 1 and ACE personal training credentials to guide athletes from 5K to ultras. With 26 marathons (eight Boston), three sub-3 finishes and two Six Star titles, she offers private coaching and training plans—explore her coaching products or book a free intro.
Frequently asked questions
This coach supports runners focused on 5km, 10km, 15km, Half Marathon, Marathon, and Ultra Marathon with coaching specialities that include Competitive Runners, Boston Marathon, Certified Strength and Conditioning, and Recreational Runners.
Yes. Kristyn R Smith is currently accepting new coaching clients, and you can reach out directly from this profile page.
Yes. Kristyn R Smith coaches Competitive Runners, Recreational Runners, and Masters Runners specifically for 5km, 10km, 15km, Half Marathon, Marathon, and Ultra Marathon, tailoring the plan to experience level and race distance together.
This coach currently offers Training Plans and Private Coaching. Product availability can change as the coach updates their marketplace offerings.
My only requirement is a willingness to put in the work and have some fun along the way.
Coaching is available through In-person, Online/Remote coaching, and Group coaching. Review product details to choose the format that best matches your goals.
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