Conquering the Half-Marathon: Colleen Schwartz, Runner to Racer

“If you walk now, it’ll only take you longer to finish!” —Fitness Editor Jenna Autuori-Dedic told herself while running her first marathon in NYC this year

“Just keep running, just keep running.” —Editorial Assistant Samantha Shelton sings this to the Finding Nemo tune in her head to help keep her feet light.

"One mile at a time." —Web Editor Collen Moody tells herself, especially on long runs when the double digits start to seem overwhelming.

"Don't stop believin'." — Senior Editor Bethany Gumper sings the famous Journey song to herself when she needs a quick boost during a tough run.

Follow our Half-Marathon Diaries for More from 2012 Racers

Half-Marathon Sneakers, Clothes and Gear

Need Training Tunes? The 10 Most-Searched Songs of 2011