This plan is aimed at the BEGINNER who would like to start running but does not know where to start. This plan is based on heart rate, so you will require a running sports watch that records heart rate.

The plan will take you from couch to running 10 kms. The plan is written in easy to understand language and time based. To ensure a good all round level of fitness there are days when you can cross train or ride a bike. Cross training will help with core strength as well as cardio and help to break up the weeks from just running and variety. If not up to cross training then rest on these days. Also included is some bike riding, just to change from running but still work the legs. This can be done on a spin bike at the gym or outdoors if you have a bike.

All workouts are written in plain easy to understand English and based on heart rate zones. Whilst not the most accurate as every individual is different, the simplest method for determining your maximum heart rate is the "220 minus your age" method. Based on the derived number, we can calculate your zones which are applied in the plan.

For an example, if you are a 35 year old athlete, Maximum heart rate is 220-35 years - 185 beats per minute.

Zones for training:
Zone 4: 80-95% of 185 bpm = 166 to 175 bpm
Zone 3: 86-89% of 185 bpm = 159 to 165 bpm
Zone 2: 75-85% of 185 bpm = 139 to 158 bpm
Zone 1: 65-74% of 185 bpm = 120 to 138 bpm

The plan is to start on a Monday, with long run on the Sunday.

After completing the 12 week plan you will have a base fitness to run your first 5 km race. Hopefully enjoying it and with a view to progressing to 10 kms or more