Another Olympic-themed tip that can help any runner: Every now and then, run with a buddy. Even Olympic athletes in solo winter sports such as skiing and skating have training partners; several Olympic skiers have the same coach, for example, and they practice together.

Running is a solitary sport, but it's also a social sport. I love my daily runs by myself, but when it's time for marathon training, nothing makes a 20-mile run go faster than having a friend to talk to. If you can't talk on a 20-mile run, you are going to fast for a training run. Slow down, and dish some gossip!

Also, having a running buddy (at least part of the time) who's a little faster than you will inspire you to pick up the pace. And especially if your family members aren't runners, it's nice to have someone to talk aches and pains and shoe styles with.

If you are new to running, or new to marathoning, check out a local running club. You don't have to immerse yourself in every club event, but even for the solitary runner, every now and then it feels good to be part of a team.

Happy Running!

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