Whether you’re a weekend jogger or a seasoned marathoner, every runner knows the joy of arriving at race day feeling prepared, confident, and in top shape. The key to making that happen? A well-crafted training plan that structures your workouts and boosts your fitness, ensuring you’re ready to perform your best.
Here’s a selection of the best running training plans on TrainingPeaks, curated for runners of all levels. Also, you can save 15% on one year of TrainingPeaks Premium for when you purchase a training plan.
1. Best Strength Training Plan for Runners of All Levels
Your 2025 of spending more time in the weight room is made easy with this 18-week plan, designed for runners of all levels. This plan is designed specifically for runners, so you can feel confident that you’re doing exercises that will make you faster, stronger, and more injury-resilient.
Plus, this program uses the TrainingPeaks Strength Builder so you can keep track of all your training in one place.
- Designed to complement your primary running program
- Each workout includes video links that demonstrate proper form for all exercises, ensuring safety and effectiveness during training.
- Includes two strength sessions per week
- If the selected plan feels too easy or too hard, you can switch to a different level while keeping the same duration.
2. Best Ultra Training Plan for Beginners or Low-Volume Runners
This plan is perfect for newer runners preparing for their first ultra (up to 50 miles) and for more experienced runners who need or prefer a relatively low-volume training program.
Written by experienced ultra-marathon coaches, feel confident knowing your training plan is based on real-world racing and coaching experience.
- Weekly mileage starts at a manageable level (about 44 miles) and peaks at 76 miles
- Includes up to six running days per week with a focus on building endurance through long runs, complemented by speed and hill workouts to enhance running economy and strength
- Integrates cross-training sessions and rest days to improve overall fitness while reducing injury risk
3. Best Marathon Training Plan That Includes Cross Training
This 16-week training plan is ideal for runners who want to integrate cycling into their training to improve overall fitness and reduce the risk of injury.
If your goal in 2025 is to prioritize recovery, this is the plan for you.
- A typical week consists of four running workouts, two cycling sessions, and two strength-training sessions.
- Training volume ranges from 6.5 to 9.5 hours per week
- Includes stretching and foam rolling exercises to optimize recovery.
4. Best Training Plan for Your First Half Marathon
If 2025 is the year you take on your first half marathon, you’re going to want a plan.
This 16-week plan is designed for beginners who want a structured, manageable approach to completing their first half marathon while building strength and improving mobility.
- Starts at 10 miles per week and gradually progresses to 25 miles
- Each week includes two cross-training days and two rest days to support recovery and prevent burnout
- The first 8 weeks use Rate of Perceived Exertion (RPE) to gauge effort, followed by a run test to establish personalized heart rate and pace zones for more precise training
- Includes video links for all strength, mobility, and stretching exercises
5. Best Power-Based Training Plan for Trail Runners
This 18-week training plan is tailored for trail running, focusing on the demands of mountainous terrain.
Feel confident come race day following a plan designed by an experienced coach and athlete Doug Steward, who has completed some of the world’s hardest races, including Trofeo Kima, Tromso Skyrace, Glen Coe Skyline and UTMB.
- Designed for runners of all levels, whether aiming to finish the race or achieve a personal best. Workouts include options for easier or harder intensities based on individual fitness
- Requires access to hills (or a treadmill) and a running power meter
- Includes race-day tips and tapering strategies in the final three weeks to ensure peak performance on race day
- Workouts are based on time, not distance
Whatever you’re striving for in 2025, get there quicker, stronger, and with unmatched confidence by using a well-designed training plan.
