Bill Squires was a legendary running coach who shaped the careers of some of the greatest marathoners in history. His wisdom, humor, and no-nonsense approach made him a beloved figure in the running world. Whether you’re a runner or just looking for motivation, his quotes pack a punch. Here are some of his best sayings—straightforward, inspiring, and full of truth.
Bill Squires on Running & Discipline
Squires believed running wasn’t just about speed—it was about commitment. His words cut through excuses.
🔹 “Running is simple, but it’s not easy.”
🔹 “The only way to get better is to put in the miles. No shortcuts.”
🔹 “Discipline is choosing what you want most over what you want now.”
🔹 “If you wait for perfect conditions, you’ll never run a step.”
🔹 “Pain is temporary. Quitting lasts forever.”
Ever skipped a workout because it was raining? Squires would’ve called you out.
Bill Squires on Mental Toughness
Running is as much mental as it is physical. Squires knew that better than anyone.
🔹 “Your legs will take you as far as your mind lets them.”
🔹 “Doubt kills more dreams than failure ever will.”
🔹 “The wall isn’t there to stop you. It’s there to see how bad you want it.”
🔹 “Champions don’t whine. They adjust.”
🔹 “If you think you can’t, you’re already halfway to failing.”
Think about it: How often does your brain talk you out of pushing harder? (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7)
Bill Squires on Competition & Winning
Squires coached winners because he understood what winning really meant.
🔹 “Winning isn’t about being the best. It’s about being better than you were yesterday.”
🔹 “Race day is just a test. The real work happens in training.”
🔹 “You don’t beat others by focusing on them. You beat them by focusing on yourself.”
🔹 “Second place is just the first loser? No. Second place means you showed up.”
🔹 “If you’re not nervous at the starting line, you didn’t care enough.”
Winning isn’t always about medals—sometimes, it’s about personal growth.
Bill Squires on Life Lessons
His wisdom wasn’t limited to running. These quotes apply to anything worth doing.
🔹 “Life’s a marathon, not a sprint. Pace yourself.”
🔹 “The harder you work, the luckier you get.”
🔹 “Excuses are like bad shoes. They’ll only slow you down.”
🔹 “Success isn’t owned. It’s rented, and the rent is due every day.”
🔹 “You don’t get what you wish for. You get what you work for.”
Sound familiar? Because it’s true in running, business, and life.
Bill Squires on Humor & Real Talk
Squires had a way of making hard truths funny.
🔹 “If running were easy, they’d call it ‘beer drinking.’”
🔹 “You know you’re a runner when your shoes cost more than your dinner.”
🔹 “The only thing worse than a long run is not doing it.”
🔹 “Running won’t solve your problems, but it’ll help you outrun them for a while.”
🔹 “The best way to get faster? Stop slowing down.”
Sometimes, you just need a laugh to keep going.
Final Thoughts
Bill Squires’ quotes are timeless because they’re honest. Running—and life—is about showing up, putting in the work, and pushing past limits. Whether you’re lacing up for a 5K or tackling a big goal, his words remind you: Keep moving forward.
Which quote hit you the hardest? Drop it in the comments and tag a friend who needs to hear it.