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⭐ Beginner 5K

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⭐ Beginner 5K

Author

Coach Darren Gibbons

All plans by this Coach

Length

8 Weeks

Plan Description

Plan Goal: Complete your first 5K with confidence!

This 8-week beginner-friendly plan is designed for anyone looking to build up safely to running 5K. We'll gradually progress from run-walk intervals to continuous running, helping you build endurance, confidence, and enjoyment in your running. With 3–4 sessions per week, you'll develop consistency without feeling overwhelmed. Optional mobility and strength add-ons will support injury prevention and movement quality.

Perfect for: New runners, anyone returning to running, or those aiming to finish their first 5K comfortably.

To support your running and keep your progress moving forwards, we recommend (optional) adding some complementary training alongside your run plan.

Including a little extra work in these areas can really help your overall performance and recovery:

✅ Strength & Conditioning: Build resilience, improve posture, and reduce injury risk.
✅ Mobility & Recovery: Support joint health and flexibility, and aid recovery between runs.
✅ CrossFit / Functional Fitness: Boost full-body fitness, power, and endurance in a varied, fun way.

These are entirely optional, but they’re a great way to build a stronger foundation around your running!

If you’d like guidance on how to combine them with your running plan, just reach out — we’re here to help.

How it Works

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Track Your Progress

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Learn More

Training Plan Sample Week

Stats

Average Weekly Breakdown

Workouts Weekly Average Longest Workout
Day Off x4
—— ——
Run x3
01:26:00 00:50:00
Workouts Per Week Weekly Average Longest Workout
Day Off
—— ——
Run
01:26:00 00:50:00

Training Load By Week


Coach Darren Gibbons

British TriathTriathlon Coach (Personal Coach)

Level 4 S&C Fundamentals Coach

80/20 Endurance Certified Coach

Level 2 Training Peaks Accredited Coach

NCFE Level 2 Nutrition & Health

Award Winning!


  • This plan includes a Free Basic TrainingPeaks Account.
  • Access your training plan anywhere on the TrainingPeaks mobile and desktop apps.
  • Track your performance with robust data tracking and detailed graphs.
  • Plan for your event in the TrainingPeaks calendar.
  • Track your weight, sleep, hours, fatigue and stress while you train.
  • Completed workouts sync with popular apps like Garmin and Wahoo. Learn More
  • If plan includes Structured Workouts, then planned workouts sync to compatible devices and guide you through workouts in real time. Learn More

Refund Policy

This plan is protected by our Refund Policy and may, with the author's approval, be exchanged for a plan of equal value from the same author.

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