Following a 10K training plan is an excellent way to get ready for your next race. The 10k race is an excellent distance for runners and walkers looking for a challenge in their running journey. The 10k equals 6.2 miles.
The 10k is a popular race, coming in second in popularity to the half marathon. It takes less time to train than a half marathon and tests your fitness, strength, and endurance.
Stephanie Holbrook’s Happy Endurance offers several training plans for runners and walkers to go from their first steps in training, to the start line on race day, and to cross the finish line at your event.
A 10k Training Plan That Fits You
Beginner to elite, you can be ready for race day with the Happy Endurance 10k Training Program. Walkers and runners are alike. All are welcome here.
Beginner 10k Training Plan
This program is for beginner walkers and runners wanting to complete their first 10k.
Intermediate 10k Training Plan
The Intermediate 10K Training Program is for runners who want to improve their performance. This program is for someone who can comfortably run continuously for 10k.
Elite Runner
This 10K Training Plan is for advanced runners with a personal record or time goal.
FREE Basic 10k Training PDF
Questions and Answers
A typical week for the 10k training programs
All training plans include:
- Detailed training plan schedule
- One long run per week with pace or heart rate recommendations
- Shorter runs with interval training based on pace or heart rate recommendations
- Cross-training workouts with strength training recommendations.
- Tempo Runs
- Recovery and rest days
- A plan for how much water to drink and what to eat and drink during training.
- A detailed schedule of what to do each day
Can I walk while training?
Yes, there are heart rate recommendations. Walking breaks are significant in lowering your heart rate to the correct heart rate training zones. The long runs should be easy runs with a low heart rate. Running, walking, or walking intervals are all acceptable.
What fitness is required for the program?
Healthy people who can put one foot in front of the other and have no underlying conditions can complete this program. If you have any concerns, you should get a physical from a medical provider.
What if I am too tired to train?
It is normal to become fatigued. Take an extra rest day or rest days if you feel you are not recovering from the training. Brisk walking instead of running is a good option.
How long do I need to train for a 10k?
An experienced runner can be ready for the start line for an event in a couple of weeks. Depending on their fitness level, novice runners can begin to train for an event in eight to twelve weeks.
What is the best 10k training plan?
There is not one plan that fits every runner. Most plans aim for one long run, one short run, a tempo run, an easy recovery run, and one rest day per week. Speed work and hills are in the program.
How many miles should I train for a 10k training plan?
It depends on your fitness; a training plan for experienced runners is eight weeks long. A training plan will run anywhere between 20 to 50 miles per week.
How many days of the week should I run to train for a 10k?
Most training plans include five to six runs per week.
What is a good 10k time for beginners?
A good pace for men is 10 min per mile, finishing just over an hour. A good beginner pace for women is around 12 min per mile, finishing around 1:15.
What is an excellent 10k time?
The experienced runner will finish between 40 and 50 minutes.
What are some tips for running faster?
- The long runs should be an easy run at a slower pace.
- Cross-train to prevent muscle imbalances.
- Practice running at race pace.
- Good quality running shoes are a must for 10k training.
- Know the course before race day.
- A balanced diet with sufficient protein will help many runners perform their best.
- Stretching and strength training can improve flexibility.
- Focusing on time and distance is the most important thing for beginner and novice runners.
