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Foundations First - 3 Week Beginner Running Plan

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Foundations First - 3 Week Beginner Running Plan

Includes Structured Workouts

Structured Workouts automatically sync with compatible devices and guide you through workouts in real time.


Learn More about Structured Workouts.

Author

Josh Coldray (coldray_endurance)

All plans by this Coach

Length

3 Weeks

Includes Structured Workouts

Structured Workouts automatically sync with compatible devices and guide you through workouts in real time.


Learn More about Structured Workouts.

Plan Description

Who this plan is for

-True beginners or returning runners who want a safe, simple start.
-Goal: build consistency and confidence over 3 weeks without feeling smashed.
-You can comfortably walk 20 minutes and commit to 3 runs/week (20–35 min).
-Perfect if you prefer time/RPE over pace and want injury-smart progress.

What to expect each week

-Run 1 – Intervals: short jog/walk reps to learn rhythm and form safely.
-Run 2 – Easy Nasal Run: steady, conversational effort; groove the easy gear.
-Run 3 – Long Run: longest easy of the week; finish with one gear left.
-Plus: 2× short strength, 3× mobility, and yoga/meditation options to keep you feeling good.
-Week-to-week bumps are small and controlled. If breath spikes or form wobbles, walk 60–90s, reset, and carry on.

Communication & support

-This is a self-guided plan (no coaching included).
-Questions or tech issues? josh@coldrayendurance.com
-Want feedback or personalization? Ask about a Q&A call or 1:1 upgrade.

Equipment you’ll need

-Comfortable running shoes.
-Watch or phone timer (any brand; structured workouts optional).
-Optional: yoga mat, mini-band, light DB/KB for strength (bodyweight versions provided).
-Treadmill OK (use 1–1.5% incline).

How to know it’s working

-You complete all 3 runs most weeks.
-Easy breathing on the Easy Nasal Run (can speak a full sentence).
-Long Run finishes feeling you could go 5–10 min longer.
-Fewer niggles; legs feel steadier from strength/mobility.

Safety & fit

-Keep most work at RPE 2-3 (easy); interval “work” tops out at RPE 7 by Week 3.
-Favour soft surfaces early (grass, trail, track lanes 2–3).
-Any sharp pain, joint swelling, or persistent discomfort → stop, swap to mobility, and note it.
-If you have a medical condition, are pregnant, or were advised against exercise, consult a clinician before starting.

How it Works

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Workout and Analyze

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Track Your Progress

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Training Plan Sample Week

Stats

Average Weekly Breakdown

Workouts Weekly Average Longest Workout
strength x5
00:30:00 00:15:00
Run x3
01:22:00 00:40:00
Day Off x1
—— ——
Workouts Per Week Weekly Average Longest Workout
strength
00:30:00 00:15:00
Run
01:22:00 00:40:00
Day Off
—— ——

Training Load By Week


Josh Coldray

Coldray Endurance

Coaching for trail, ultra, road running, and triathlon—tailored to your goals, lifestyle, and experience. We combine training with strength, mobility, nutrition, mindset, and breathwork to support the whole athlete.


  • 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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