The Wellness Center's Blog

Running and Marathon Training: What to Know

By: Chelsea Wellness Center Staff

June 28, 2025, 10:00 am - Categories: Uncategorized

Road racing is a popular form of exercise, with 5Ks, half marathons, marathons and more to compete in across the globe. If you’re looking to start running or want to know more, read on for a conversation between Fitness Supervisor Liam Hartsuff and Fitness Specialist and Personal Trainer Carolyn Olsen, who are both running enthusiasts and marathon finishers.

How did you get started with running?

LH: “I started running for my track team at Chelsea High School. Everyone on my team was faster than me back then, and I wanted to change that. Afterwards, I ran track at Sienna Heights University.”
CO: “I started running in middle school but was never competitive with it. I did play other sports like volleyball and soccer, which required running and conditioning, though.”

What is your motivation to keep running?

LH: “I enjoy the competition of running and being able to get better every day. I also draw enjoyment from the discipline and structure it has built in my life.”
CO: “I do it to stay healthy and relaxed. Some of my best thinking time happens when I am doing my longer runs.”

How far or how often do you usually run in a week?

LH: “I run 100 miles a week. That usually takes me anywhere from 12 to 13 hours total.”
CO: “I do two to three runs per week of varying intensity and length depending on whether I am training for an event or not.

If someone wanted to start running, what would you recommend they start with?

LH: “I would recommend starting with a run/walk mix and not comparing yourself to anyone else. Running can be a competition against yourself as much as it can be against others.”
CO: “I would recommend thinking about your progress instead of thinking about your times. Everyone starts at the beginning, so being ‘slow’ is relative.”

What workouts do you do besides running?

LH: “I do core and push-ups, but most of what I do is running and occasionally swimming.”
CO: “I work out two or three times a week, doing a combination of lifting and biking.”

How many marathons have you run, and do you plan to run more?

LH: “I just finished the Boston Marathon. My goal is to run a marathon in all 50 states in the order in which they joined the Union. Up next is New York!”
CO: “I don’t have any plans to run another one this year, but I just finished the Knoxville Marathon last month! I would love to run the Bay Shore Marathon in Traverse City next year.”

Begin your own running training program!

If you’re looking to train for a marathon, or build up to your first race, you already have access to a training program in your pocket. Our NEW Volt Virtual Running Training Program is the ultimate solution for runners who want to increase their strength and endurance. Receive a custom workout plan you can use while you’re at the center or on the go, all from your mobile device.

To learn more, please visit the Member Service Desk or call 734-214-0220.