Running Experience

I began running at age 30 to lose weight and manage stress. One year later I ran my first road race… the Richmond Half Marathon and finished in 2 hours.

Another year later I ran my first marathon (the 1981 Richmond Marathon) and finished in 4 hours. To date, I have run 13 marathons and numerous shorter ones. My personal best marathon is the 1985 Marine Corps Marathon with a time of 3:11.

I currently run/walk seven days per week (thanks to my dog “Buddy” who makes sure I don’t miss a day) at distances of about 2 – 6 miles twice a day. My running philosophy is “a day without a run is like a day without a shower (it stinks)”.

Coaching/Training Experience:

My training philosophy is a combination of many experts in the field and based on my own experience with each one. I believe in varying exercise and gradually increasing the intensity and duration allowing adequate recovery between workouts. Increases should be no more than 5 – 10% in any week. Attention to upper body and core strength is also important and to relax and enjoy the experience.

I have successfully coached males and females to achieve their goals at distances from 5K to full marathon. For many years I have helped beginning runners enjoy the benefits of running for fitness. Several people that have completed my programs have incorporated running into their daily routine and enjoy it as part of their way of life.

Bill Lis -  Owner

Born in Boston, MA (1/13/49). Also lived in Portland, ME, Cohoes, NY, Anderson, South Carolina, and (for the last 30 years) in Virginia (28 years in Richmond).
Graduated from VCU in 1976. Married Ann McDaniel from Lynchburg, VA in 1992. Founded RunnerBill's, Inc. in 1994. Currently Owner/Manager of RunnerBill's Sports of Midlothian, VA.