See the Awkward Christmas Cards This Couple Has Been Sending for 13 Years

Cortney Clift
Dec 04, 2015

When searching for some over-the-top Christmas card inspo, the Kardashian clan always seems to pop up with their oh-so-dramatic snap. But if you’re looking for an idea that will result in a little more giggling and a little less gawking, we suggest you take a look at this family who has been sending out the hilariously awkward Christmas cards for – wait for it – 13 YEARS.

Mike Bergeron shared his family’s collection of photos on Reddit last week, and boy, they did not disappoint. Mike told BuzzFeed, “We thought the Christmas card tradition was ripe for parodying just because of their inherently awkward nature.” He goes on to say, “I have always given Christmas gifts to everyone that I’m close to, so by the time I turned 30 it was getting pretty difficult… to find ways to express to the people that I love that they are important to me through some small gift.”

The early photos feature Mike and his wife Laura in a variety of hilarious poses. In the debut snap, Mike is rocking a faux balding cap, in their second year Mike and Laura channel their inner hillbilly. Each manages to be just a little bit more awkward than the last, but the year Mike, Laura and their kids all dressed up in jazzercise outfits might take the number one slot.

Bergeron family, you win Christmas.

What does your Christmas card look like this year? Share with us in the comments below.

(Photos via Reddit)

We’re Obsessed With Kourtney Kardashian And Travis Barker’s Blended Family

In the realm of celebrity families, the Kardashians reign supreme. Among them, eldest sister Kourtney Kardashian stands out with her dynamic personality and well-documented (Hello, Keeping Up With The Kardashians!) foray into motherhood. She recently made it known that being a mom is her number one priority, and she won't allow anyone or anything to take her away from that. With that level of dedication, it's clear that Kourtney is an amazing mom with lots of love to give! Here's everything you should know about her sweet kids!

How many biological kids does Kourtney Kardashian have?

Photo by Noam Galai/Getty Images for MTV/ViacomCBS

Kourtney Kardashian has four biological kids! Their names are Mason, Penelope, Reign, and Rocky. She shares her first three children with ex Scott Disick, and now shares Rocky her current husband, Travis Barker. Kourtney also appears to be very close to her step children, Landon and Alabama Barker.

What is Kourtney Kardashian's new baby's name?

Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images for Tommy Hilfiger

Kourtney Kardashian and Travis Barker announced the birth of their beautiful baby boy on December 22, 2023. His name is Rocky Thirteen Barker, which has a special meaning for Travis' father. Travis told Grazia Magazine that Rocky George was the guitarist for Suicidal Tendencies, and 13 is "just the greatest number of all time."

Will Kourtney Kardashian have a surrogate?

Image via @kourtneykardash/Instagram

According to Daily Mail, Kourtney's pregnancy with Rocky wasn't easy, eventually ending up with a rush to the hospital for urgent fetal surgery. Because of how difficult (and likely traumatizing) that was, Kourtney and Travis have apparently decided to go with a surrogate for any future children they have.

Mason Dash Disick, 14

Images via Instagram/@kimkardashian and Ari Perilstein/Getty Images for Feld Entertainment

Mason Dash Disick, born on December 14, 2009, is Kourtney's first biological child. He's also the first grandchild of the Kardashian family, and his birth was actually filmed for Keeping Up With the Kardashians! His middle name might sound familiar, as it also belongs to the set of stores that Kourtney, Khloe, and Kim previously ran. "Dash" parallels their last name and simultaneously serves as a tribute to their late father's (Robert Kardashian) nickname.

Penelope Scotland Disick, 11

Images via Hulu and Rich Fury/Getty Images for Coachella

Penelope — often affectionately referred to as "P" — was born on July 8, 2012. She was also born on Keeping Up With the Kardashians and is very close with her famous cousin, North West. They post their hilarious antics all over TikTok, making us miss those childhood mems with our own cousins.

Reign Aston Disick, 9

Image via Instagram/@kourtneykardash

Reign is Kourtney and Scott's youngest child, and he was born on the same day as his older brother Mason! He's nine years old, and seems to bring his big personality wherever he goes. You can find a lot of his goofiness all over Kourt's Instagram.

Rocky Thirteen Barker, 3 months

Image via Instagram/@kourtneykardash

Rocky Thirteen Barker is the latest addition to Kourtney Kardashian's kids! Kourtney was very open about her struggles with conceiving Rocky, as well as the complications that arose during her pregnancy. Thankfully, all worked out well, and now Rocky is living his best life with his parents and siblings!

How many kids does Travis Barker have?

Photo by Neilson Barnard/Getty Images

Outside of Rocky, Travis Barker shares two biological with his ex-wife, Shanna Moakler. He also has a step-daughter named Atiana De La Hoya who he — and Kourtney — are very close with.

Atiana De La Hoya, 24

Photo by Emma McIntyre/Getty Images for ABA

Travis Barker's shares his step daughter, Atiana De Le Hoya, with her mother Shanna Moakler. Atiana was born on March 29, 1999, and she's the eldest of the combined Barker-Kardashian clan. Atiana acts, and she recently starred in a thriller called Maya.

Landon Asher Barker, 20

Photo by Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images for The Recording Academy

Landon Barker was born on October 9, 2003, and is a musician — just like his dad! He's released a number of songs including "Trust" and "Holiday". In June of 2022, Landon began dating Internet celebrity and TikTok star, Charli D'Amelio. Sadly, in February of 2024, the two called it quits. They expressed that they're still friends and still have a lot of love left for one another.

Alabama Luella Barker, 18

Photo by Presley Ann/Getty Images for Spotify

Music must run in the family because Alabama Barker is a budding musician, too! She was born on December 24, 2005, while her family was starring in a reality show called Meet the Barkers. Today, she's still in the spotlight and is very active on TikTok. She posts a lot of her music across her platforms — which have collectively over 3 million followers!

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Header image via Neilson Barnard/Getty Images

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Miles & Keleigh Teller’s Hilarious Nod To Ryan Gosling Will Make You LOL

Met Gala Monday has arrived, and it's making me think about all my favorite red carpet couples — Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds, Shaun White and Nina Dobrev, Tom Holland and Zendaya (who's co-chairing the Gala this year!). But one of the couples at the top of my list is Miles and Keleigh Teller. This couple (who's BFF's with Taylor Swift, by the way) never miss a hot red carpet look but they're also so sweet and goofy. Fingers crossed they show up at the Gala tonight, but until then, keep reading for their cutest relationship moments!

Miles Teller and Keleigh Teller's Full Relationship Timeline

Image via Jason Merritt/Getty Images for MTV

May 11, 2013 — Miles Teller And Keleigh Sperry Meet

Miles Teller and his future wife Keleigh met at an after party for The Black Keys in 2013, and immediately clicked. "I told my buddy, 'I think I'm going to be with this girl for a long time,'" Miles tells People in 2017.

He also told Vogue in 2019 that he knew she was the one right after they met. "Keleigh had caught my eye early in the night, and we talked," he says. "I didn't think it went well, but after a few more attempts, I got her to dance with me, and a week later, we went on a date."

“He was so charming and charismatic,” Keleigh tells Vogue. “I adored him from the first moment we met.”

Image via Keleigh Teller/Instagram

August 20, 2017 — Miles Teller Proposes To Keleigh Sperry

While on a trip to South Africa, Miles Teller proposed to Keleigh, starting the next chapter of their life! Except, the proposal didn't initially go as planned. "You do a coffee break after you do the morning sunrise safari and I said, ‘OK, wherever we’re going to be at, tie a rose to a tree and then put this note [with the day we started dating and the day we got engaged] on there,’" Miles says on an episode of Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. "So, we had our coffee break and she sees the flower [and] she thought someone had died. She thought it was an in memoriam kind of thing, and I’m just, like, staring.”

"I'll never get the image out of my head of him down on one knee with a tear in his eye," Keleigh told People. "He really thought about every detail and was so nervous!"

Image via Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images

September 1, 2019 — Miles and Keleigh Teller Get Married

I thought this relationship couldn't get any more perfect, and then Miles and Keleigh Teller ended up getting married in Hawaii. The dreamy ceremony took place on Maui, and in addition to a beautiful Monique Lhuillier gown, Keleigh wore a necklace from her mom that all her sisters also wore when they got married. (Don't mind me, just brushing a tear from my eye!)

Image via Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images for BFI

September 1, 2020 — Miles Teller and Keleigh Teller Celebrate Their Wedding Anniversary

Everyday is a good day to celebrate your partner, and anniversaries are even more of an excuse! To celebrate their one-year, Miles and Keleigh Teller spent some time oceanside. "Happy 1 yr anniversary to my all-time love @keleighsperry," Miles tweeted. "You and me til the end, baby."

"1 year ago, till the end," Keleigh Teller said in her own Instagram post.

Image via Jason Merritt/Getty Images

December 21, 2020 — Miles Teller Reveals Keleigh Teller Always Has His Back

While speaking with Men's Health at the end of 2020, Miles revealed just how strong his marriage to Keleigh had become (and how they added a lemon tree, hydrangeas, and roses to their backyard!). "She keeps me calm. It's pretty great," he says. "We are really great. Once you get married and you make that ultimate commitment, life is just a lot less stressful. You just know that person is always going to be there."

Image via Christopher Polk/Getty Images for MTV

February 14, 2021 — Keleigh Teller Celebrates Valentine's Day

To celebrate their second Valentine's Day as a married couple, Keleigh wrote a beautiful message to Miles on Instagram. "8 years of being your valentine," she says. "I love you, the one I want to go through time with." I cannot get enough of this couple! Swoon!

Image via Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images

May 25, 2021 — Miles and Keleigh Teller Vacation With Shailene Woodley and Aaron Rodgers

In addition to the critically-acclaimed Top Gun: Maverick and Whiplash, you probably recognize Miles Teller from the Divergent series. Well, apparently he still keeps in touch with his co-stars, and this vacation proves it! Ahead of the summer of 2021, Miles and Keleigh Teller took a trip to Hawaii with Shailene Woodley and her then-boyfriend Aaron Rogers (of Green Pay Packers fame).

Image via Jason Koerner/Getty Images

September 1, 2021 — Miles Teller and Keleigh Teller Celebrate Their 2nd Anniversary As A Married Couple

This social media savvy couple celebrated each other on their second anniversary, and their messages were the sweetest yet! "2 years ago today, I married the woman of my dreams," Miles tweeted. "There isn't a day that goes by where I'm not reminded of how much I truly love and adore you. Thank you for your kindness and unconditional support, Keleigh. I would be lost without you."

"Happy anniversary my booshki," Keleigh wrote on Instagram. "Not sure how to put 8 years into 10 photos but I love you forever more thanks for being a stud of a husband, I adore you."

Image via Dia Dipasupil/Getty Images

November 15, 2021 — Miles and Keleigh Teller Star In Taylor Swift's Music Video

All of Taylor Swift's music videos are amazing in their own right but my personal favorite is "I Bet You Think About Me" from the Red (Taylor's Version) era. The costumes are beautiful, Blake Lively's direction is perfect, and the fact that Miles Teller and Keleigh Teller are in the video makes it even better!

"So grateful to Miles for being the greatest dance partner and friend to me," Taylor wrote on Instagram at the time. "And @keleighteller, who is the coolest living human on planet earth. The bride was willing to risk it all."

Image via Frazer Harrison/Getty Images

May 5, 2022 — Miles Teller's Wife Keleigh Celebrates Top Gun: Maverick

Top Gun was one of the hottest movies of 2022, and to celebrate its release, Keleigh showed up for her husband time and time again! "Loving the Rooster love! Miles says thank you to everyone who has seen the film and he shares in this moment with you," she says in one Instagram post, captioning another, "Just.. memories. so proud of you all. Congrats!!"

Image via Lia Toby/Getty Images for Paramount Pictures

July 20, 2022 — Keleigh Teller Asks Miles Teller To Shave His Mustache

As much as Top Gun fans loved Miles Teller's mustache (and how much it made him look like his onscreen dad Goose, played in the original film by Anthony Edwards), Keleigh Teller wasn't a huge fan. "My wife made me shave it immediately [after filming wrapped]," Miles joked with People during the summer of 2022.

Image via Monica Schipper/Getty Images for Netflix

October 1, 2022 — Miles Teller Hosts Saturday Night Live

On the heels of the Top Gun craze, Miles Teller hosted SNL during the fall, and Keleigh was just as excited as him!! "I adore you, thank you for making this week what it was @rebeccaannes @colinjost @fayedunaway etc. you make dreams come true," Keleigh wrote on Instagram the next day.

"So proud of you ❤️🔥," she wrote in another post.

Image via Phillip Faraone/Getty Images for Paramount Pictures

February 2, 2023 — Miles Teller and Keleigh Sperry Star In A Super Bowl Commercial

There aren't many Super Bowl commercials I can remember from the last few years, but the Bud Light ad with Miles Teller & wife Keleigh is one of my favorites! The ad really highlights how much fun this couple has as they dance around and have fun together. "There's a lot of improv," Miles tells People. "We did go to a rehearsal, just to be professional about it — but in the back of my head I was kind of figuring…I kind of knew the moves I wanted to do."

"It's really been an incredible year for both Keleigh and I, not just professionally but personally," he continues. "When Bud Light came and wanted us to be a part of a Super Bowl commercial, I mean, that's the top of the mountain as far as these things go. We always look forward to watching them."

Image via Keleigh Teller/Instagram

May 27, 2023 — Miles and Keleigh Teller Watch Taylor Swift's Eras Tour

I was over the moon when I realized I was at the same Eras Tour show as Keleigh and Miles Teller! The couple, along with Aaron Rodgers, attended two of Taylor Swift's three concerts at the MetLife arena in East Rutherford, New Jersey. They were a blast! "48 hours in ERAs heaven," Keleigh says on Instagram.

Image via Neilson Barnard/Getty Images

February 20, 2024 — Keleigh Sperry Celebrates Miles Teller's Birthday

I love birthdays just as much as other major holidays, and turns out Keleigh Teller loves them too! (Just, not as much as she loves Miles ;)). "Happy 37th birthday to my Phila-Florida-jersey-boy, you hung the 🌙 ," she says on Instagram. "Keep on flying, I’ll stand by and watch you shine forever."

Image via Miles Teller/X

April 30, 2024 — Miles And Keleigh Teller Dress Up In Honor Of The Fall Guy

After Ryan Gosling dressed up as Beavis during SNL and the premiere of The Fall Guy, Miles Teller and Keleigh Teller put their own spin on the costumes. Miles posted the photos to X with nothing but a rocker hand emoji as the caption.

Who is Miles Teller's wife?

Image via Emma McIntyre/Getty Images

Miles Teller's wife is Keleigh Teller, who is a professional model and has starred in music videos like Opeth’s “The Devil’s Orchard" and Taylor Swift's "I Bet You Think About Me (Taylor's Version)."

How did Keleigh Teller and Miles Teller meet?

Image via Randy Shropshire/Getty Images for CAA

Miles Teller and Keleigh Teller met when they showed up to the same after party in 2013. It really goes to show that you never know where you'll find the love of your life!

Do Miles and Keleigh Teller have kids?

Image via Amy Sussman/Getty Images

No, Miles Teller & wife Keleigh don't have kids — but they do have a French bulldog named Bugsy!

What's your favorite moment from Miles and Keleigh Teller's love story? Check out our Facebook for more news on your favorite celebrity couples!

Lead image via Lia Toby/Getty Images for Paramount Pictures

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Timothée Chalamet And Kylie Jenner Shared A Sweet Kiss At The 2024 Golden Globes

Of all the rumors that emerged this year, Timothée Chalamet x Kylie Jenner dating rumor was one that got us going. Her, a highly-decorated makeup and reality TV mogul, and him, an award-winning and frequently thirsted-over actor – it was just too far fetched!

But, my longstanding suspicions were proven so terribly wrong when the duo went public with a slew of steamy kisses. Where it all took place? None other than Beyoncé’s Renaissance tour, which is equally iconic and confusing. Since then, the couple has been seen together in public from the stands at Coco Gauff's US Open Finals game to a Saturday Night Live afterparty, and most recently, the 2024 Golden Globes.

Though I love relishing in this pair's love, I can't help but wonder: How did this unlikely couple come together? What *exactly* led up to the hard launch? Well, question no more – below, a comprehensive timeline of Timothée and Kylie’s relationship, which some are calling a “hot romance,” and others deeming it more “fun and uncomplicated.”

January 2023

Timothée Chalamet and Kylie Jenner reportedly met for the first time in January 2023. The pair was spotted together at a John Paul Gaultier fashion show during Paris Couture Week, and their interaction was published (and subsequently amplified) by blind items outlet, Deuxmoi, via Instagram Stories.

This came not long after Jenner had made her official break with longtime boyfriend, Travis Scott. They still share two children, Stormi, 5, and Aire Webster, 1.

April 2023

The aforementioned dating rumors began after a few instances between the couple went public. First, one of Jenner’s cars was photographed parked outside of Chalamet’s home in Beverly Hills.

Later in April, the pair also allegedly grabbed tacos from a stand together in Santa Monica, enjoying them in the backseat of Jenner’s Range Rover.

At the time, an insider told Peoplethat the two were “getting to know each other.” Another told Us Weekly that they had only hung out “a couple of times” and “things [weren’t] that serious.” Despite it all, Jenner reportedly “[liked] what she [saw]” and her and Timmy had “good chemistry.”

Between April, May, and June of 2023, the couple were simply enjoying “casually seeing each other,” according to Entertainment Tonight.

August 2023

Gasp!

Timothée and Kylie supposedly broke up – though sources covering the news were contradicting one another.

While Life & Stylereported their alleged breakup, TMZ dispelled the claims, with one insider affirming that “everything is cool between the two [and] they're still an item.”

Throughout the fall, their relationship remained very casual and the duo was staying out of the public eye.

September 2023

All of that brings us to Labor Day 2023, when Timmy and Kylie popped up extremely publicly at the Beyoncé concert. This was the first time we saw some PDA from the two, and it sent the internet into a spiral.

Many a social media post was made, documenting the couple’s kissing and hugging escapades in a VIP area.

Photo by Mike Stobe / Stringer / Getty Images Sport

The weekend after the concert, Timmy and Kylie were spotted sitting in the stands at the US Open Finals in New York. Pictures taken of the two included shots of them with their arms around the other, them kissing, and taking pictures of each other in the stands.

November 2023

In November, Timothée hosted an episode of Saturday Night Live alongside musical guest boygenius. While fans expected to see Kylie in the audience, she actually joined him for the afterparty to celebrate his performance.

December 2023

Kylie and Timmy have been happy ever since. According to a source that spoke with People, Kylie has confidently declared Timothée as her boyfriend.

The pair is "incredibly happy" as they both show support to one another's careers and endeavors.

“He is very supportive of her career and she of his,” the source said. “They both try to attend important events for each other.”

The inside source also noted that Timothée is “in awe of everything [Kylie] is accomplishing” and “especially thinks she is an amazing mom.” So sweet!

January 2024

Timothée and Kylie attended the 81st Golden Globes (their first awards show as a couple) on January 7. Timmy was nominated for Best Leading Actor in a Musical or Comedy for his role in the chart-toppingWonka. The two didn't step out together on the red carpet, but Kylie was there to support Timothée during the rest of the ceremony.

The pair was spotted getting real comfortable together, even sharing a quick kiss that ended up on screen. So cute!

Are Timothée Chalamet and Kylie Jenner dating?

Yes, Timothée Chalamet and Kylie Jenner are officially dating as of September 2023.

How old are Timothée Chalamet and Kylie Jenner?

Timothée Chalamet is 27 years old and Kylie Jenner is 26 years old.

What do you think about this unexpected pairing? Let us know @BritandCo!

Lead photos by Amy Sussman and Ethan Miller / Getty Images.

This post has been updated.

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10 All-White Party Outfits To Style For Your Next Summer Invite

If there’s one thing about the weather outside warming up, it’s that it has us itching to wear all white and only white. Because of the “no white before Memorial Day or after Labor Day '' rule that was put into place who knows how long ago by we don't-know-who, the color doesn’t get a lot of love during the winter months, but wearing all white is SUCH a vibe. However, thanks to this rule, all-white ensembles are always reminiscent of long summer days that lead into long summer nights.

In fact, wearing all white is such a striking fashion moment that ‘white parties’ have become a popularized summer event thanks to mentions in the media like Gossip Girl’s acclaimed Hamptons white party, or RHOBH’s Kyle Richards’ annual ivory-only summer soiree. Even if you aren’t a part of New York’s elite or a housewife in Beverly Hills, that doesn’t mean that you can’t partake in this seasonal trend, too.

Flowy dresses, linen sets, eyelet details, and delicate cuts all bring so much versatility to the soft colorway that is white. If you’re feeling inspired to host your own white party this summer, or if you already have a few on your calendar to attend, find our top apparel selects that fit the theme below.

Shop White Party Outfits Here!

H&M Linen Blended Pants

These pants are so effortlessly cool, both literally and figuratively. The wide legs, oversized back pockets, and low waist keep them on-trend, while the breathable linen fabric makes them perfect for hotter temps. Not to mention, they’ll pair easily with just about every top that’s already in your closet.

Sabo Skirt Marita Dress

Want to know how to look super chic with minimal effort? This delicate maxi dress is your answer. The dramatic ankle length of this dress makes it an obvious choice for nighttime white parties, but the playful back cut-out and tie maintain the youthful energy that comes out in all of us during the summer.

Current Air Cara Sleeveless Pleated Mini Dress

If you are as obsessed with tenniscore as we are following the premiere of the Challengers movie, then this mini dress is the white party ‘fit for you! The drop waist and subtle ruffled collar detail make it feel like it could be worn court-side if the party you’re attending happens to have a net and a few extra rackets handy; you’ll be sure to channel your inner Zendaya in this piece.

Diarrablu Satu Dress

Caftan dresses are the best for keeping you cool while still making you look majestic af. This one-shoulder shift dress has gorgeous details including monochrome appliques and a scalloped slit that sits beautifully on all body types. Available in a size range of XS to 3XL, it beautifully fuses elegance and comfort for a timeless look that transitions seamlessly from season to season.

Cupshe Ivory Textured Square Neck Lace-Up One-Piece

If your white party doubles as a pool party, then showing up in an ivory one-piece is a must. The full coverage bum will keep you feeling secure, while the lace-up back invites an element of edginess to this modern take on a classic bathing suit.

Showpo Tommy Two Piece Set

If I were to go to a white party this summer (read: someone please invite me to your white party this summer), then I’d wear this matching set. I love that it comes off as fashionable thanks to the on-trend sheer element and flattering fabric composition while feeling as comfortable as pajamas.

Praerie Margaret Dress

This high-low dress is simply stunning. With a square neck, romantic floral design, and puff sleeves, the Margaret dress is playful yet sophisticated and can be dressed down for lunchtime get-togethers, or styled more formally for evening events.

Petite Plume Women's Silk Pajama Set

Once the party is over and you’re ready to slip into something a bit more comfortable, this milky white set made from 100% mulberry silk will make you feel beyond luxe. The quintessential, timeless silhouette is sure to turn heads, so much so that if you throw this set on while your guests are still present, they’ll get the subtle hint that it’s time for them to go home; only after they ask where your set is from.

Abercrombie Curve Love A&F Sloane Tailored Short

Look and feel posh in a pair of tailored shorts if a dress just isn’t your thing. Abercrombie’s pleated highrise shorts bring an element of functionality to white party dressing. These shorts feature front and back pockets for your trinkets, belt loops that provide the opportunity for accessorizing, and a partially elasticated waistband offers extra comfort.

Pistola Grover Short Sleeve Field Suit

This jumpsuit is giving stylish mechanic, and we’re totally here for it. The all-white colorway offers an elevated, yet essential appeal to this all-in-one outfit. To make it feel a bit more feminine, pop the collar, roll up the pant legs, add some kitten heels, and as many accessories as you can handle.

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Header image via Praerie

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How To Train For A 5K, According To A (Very Fast) Professional Distance Runner

A 5K is a 3.12 mile race, and it's one of the most popular distances around the world for hobby joggers and elite athletes alike. Unlike a half marathon or full marathon, the 5K leaves you feeling tired, but able to actually walk afterwards — and with the same sense of accomplishment. Some seasoned runners may look down on the 5K, but I'm here to tell you that it's no small feat. In fact, in my 14 years of competitive running, the 5K was my main focus for 12 years.

If you're looking to run your first 5K and have no background in cardio or endurance sports, a simple google search for “beginner 5k workouts” will lead you to dozens of workout plans. While I have coached true beginners, my coaching specialty is with more intermedia runners, or runners trying to run their fastest 5K. You don't have to be a standout athlete or elite runner to set goals, and there are some simple steps everyone can take to get faster. Heres how to train for a 5K race, the Paxton way.

Photo by RF._.studio/PEXELS

The first step to bettering your 5K is to pick a race and sign up for it — most cities have a few 5K to choose from each weekend, so there should be plenty to choose from. Having a race on the calendar ensures you won’t skip out on your training. I recommend giving yourself 8-10 weeks to properly train.

The best 5K training plans, in my opinion, include 4-5 days of running a week. Every week should include:

  • One or two speed workouts
  • A few easy jogs
  • A long run

You should never run hard or fast two days in a row — easy jogging and rest between speed workouts are both essential for rebuilding muscles damaged with hard workouts. Here's how each of the three main training workouts should go.

Photo by cottonbro studio/PEXELS

Speed Workouts

Every speed workout should begin with a 5-10 minute jogging warm up and a 5-10 minute jog/walk cooldown. This will help ensure you do not pull or strain any muscles.

The actual "speed" part of speed workouts can go one of two ways:

  • Run 2-3 minutes at a harder 7 out of 10 effort, with a standing or walking rest of 2-3 minutes between each push.
  • Run 6-8 repeats of a steep hill for 45-60 seconds in length with a walk back down, before repeating again.
Note: These are not sprint workouts, and you should never push yourself so hard that you're lying on the ground gasping for air afterwards.

Easy Jogs

Easy jogs should be kept at a conversational pace, so this would be a good time to grab your girlfriend or hop on the phone if you want some company. The best jogs should be about 2-3 miles in length, or 20-35 minutes in duration.

Photo by Andrea Piacquadio/PEXELS

Long Runs

Long runs are arguably the most important workout of the week, and anyone trying to better their 5K time should make sure to include them in their training plan. Like the name suggests, a long run should be your longest run of the week. Your longest run can be anywhere from three miles at the beginning of the plan to 12 miles if you're an experienced and seasoned vet. I recommend starting with 3 miles at the beginning of your 8-10 week plan and working your way up to 5-8 miles by the end. You should do this by adding one half to a full mile each week. Although it may sound silly to run 8 miles in order to run a 3.1 mile race, this will help build your endurance more than any of your other weekly runs. Having endurance will make the race seem easier, and I can guarantee you'll pass people left and right in your final mile.

Note: You should also have at least 10 days between your longest long run and your 5k race so that you can feel as fresh as possible on race day.

Photo by Blue Bird/PEXELS

The most important thing to remember on race day is to not go out too fast. If you sprint the first mile, the rest of the race will be miserable. Race day adrenaline will make you jittery and willing to sprint at the start, but working on controlling that will ensure a better race experience. Try to make your second and third mile faster than your first and give it all in the last .1 mile. After you’re done, soak in the race day atmosphere and grab a free banana! Don’t forget that the post race pain is temporary and remember not to sign up for another race while on an endorphin high!

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