Will Henderson never set out to be a runner.
In fact, when he first watched the Houston Marathon in 1988, he couldn’t imagine why anyone would choose to run 26 miles. A year later, he committed—on a whim—the day before the race, planning to run just half. Instead, he finished the full marathon. It was one of the hardest things he’d ever done, but it sparked something.
Will loved that running was simple: no fancy equipment, just shoes and the open road. He quickly realized you didn’t need to run long every day to be a strong marathoner. After his first race, he began running more regularly, gradually increasing his training.
In 2003, with limited time as a new dad, Will joined a seasonal running group. Wanting to train year-round without spending hours each week, he created his own structured, efficient workouts—and in 2005, Will’s Hills was born.
Will's Vision
Will’s Hills focuses on efficient, challenging hill and speed workouts that make the most of limited time and help athletes of all levels build strength, consistency, and aerobic capacity. Will believes the keys to becoming a better runner are consistency and knowing your motivation—and that training with a group is one of the best ways to stay inspired.
Now in his early 60s, Will runs fewer miles than he used to but with greater intention. He’s completed over 300 races—including more than 100 marathons and Ultras—and credits his success and injury-free streak to focused training, variety, and running smarter, not longer.
Growing the Club
The impact of Will’s Hills began to grow beyond adult runners. In 2010, a few local high school coaches joined the workouts and began bringing their athletes along. As more students joined and found motivation training with peers at their level, the Will’s Hills High School Program was born.
Designed for athletes of all skill levels, the program helps teens build aerobic capacity, strength, and confidence—key for excelling in cross country, track, soccer, football, lacrosse, and other sports. Training throughout the summer prepares them to return to school faster, stronger, and better equipped to perform and avoid injury.
The workouts are fun, tough, and effective, combining:
- Hill repeats
- Speed work
- Interval training
- Relay races
- Tempo runs
- Time trials
- Strength training
- Plyometrics, calisthenics, and stretching
- Personalized programming for individual goals
Will’s Hills isn’t just for runners
It’s for any athlete looking to elevate their performance through smart, efficient training.
Yes, Houston does have hills—let us help you find them!
