Keep it Real

Be flexible with your time.

We're not elite athletes and have normal schedules to battle with. Running can't always be the priority.

Know what workouts you need to get in for the week. If you miss a workout, use a rest day to make up for it. It would make sense to anticipate how many workouts you will likely miss during the average week during training. I'm pretty good on getting all of my workouts in, but I plan on missing 2-4 during the month. Don't get down on yourself for missing a workout. Sometimes it can't be avoided. Most importantly, try to get your long runs in. You might have to move it to a day where you normally have a short run.

Schedule conflicts make it difficult to keep a routine. Have shoes handy. If you know you're going to be tied up after work, try and get your run done in the morning before heading in. The more flexible you become, the easier it will be to incorporate running full-time into your lifestyle. It will flow as part of your normal day.