Not sure which is the best running program to follow? There are plenty of running training plans out there, but the best one is the one that you’ll actually follow.
Whether you’re a seasoned running pro or a beginner runner lacing up your running shoes for the first time, adopting a training program is certainly the key to success. But, with so many running programs out there, how do you choose what’s best for you and your goals? We’re here to help you explore training plans to help you become a stronger, more confident runner.
Before you choose a running plan, decide what you want to get out of running. What are your goals? It can be helpful to list them out on paper. For example, do you want to lose weight? Run your first 5K race? Get a half marathon under your best? Improve your health? This will help you frame what kind of running plan you want to pick–or if you want to design one for yourself.
Ok, so you’ve decided what your goals are and you’re ready to select a running plan. There’s no shortage of training programs out there–but the best ones have several key components no matter if you’re focused on weight loss or hitting a new personal record. Here are the top things to look for in a running program:
There’s not a single running program out there that doesn’t help warm your muscles up at the beginning of a run and cool everything down at the end to help prevent injuries. Check out our videos on proper warm-ups and cool-downs, too!
No more than a 10-15% mileage increase per week. If you’re training for a longer race, you’ll want to increase your mileage every week. However, do it slowly to help decrease your risk of injury and burnout. Training is a marathon, not a sprint!
Your running week plan should include speed work, one longer run, and recovery days. A good plan will also include strength training workouts to keep your muscles strong, improve your running form, and aid in injury prevention.
Running non-stop seven days a week is a lot of impact on your body. A good running program is infused with a rest day or two, some easy pace runs, and/or some cross-training such as the elliptical, biking, or swimming.
Look at nearly every running log and journal and there’s a place to record your nutrition for that day and your weight. A robust running program will include nutrition plans or tips to help you fuel your body right for every run along the way.
There are a ton of running plans out there, and many experienced runners like to plan their own. No matter what you choose, we are dedicated to providing the resources, advice, and coaching that fosters and grows your love of running.
At The Run Experience, we are proud to have first-class coaches who have crafted effective training plans for a variety of runners, of all experience levels. All our running training programs include daily workouts and videos on run, strength, injury prevention, and nutrition–plus coaching support! Let’s dive in and learn a little more.
If you have not had any coaching before or are a beginner runner, start with our beginner running program. Starting a training plan for any new runner can seem daunting, but we’ll have you stronger, faster and ready to enter a 5K race in 30 days.
You’ll not only get fitter, but you’ll also learn how to run more gracefully and without risking injury. This program includes:
The 30 Day Challenge is our flagship program that’s suitable for runners of all levels. It includes 30 days of training that will transform your running through daily workouts that include strength, mobility, running form and speed.
Whether you’re a brand new runner or an experienced veteran, you will finish as a different runner than when you started. This program includes:
Our half marathon program is a race-specific plan to get you focused on the things that matter–getting to the starting line of your race prepared to run your best half marathon ever over the course of eight weeks.
We recommend the 30 Day Challenge before you start this program, but it’s not required. This program includes:
Choosing to run a marathon is a big commitment that required time, dedication and patience. We are here to help you get ready with four months of marathon race-specific training.
Our marathon program will build your speed, strength, and endurance, so you can go the distance and arrive at the starting line feeling healthy and confident! This program includes:
Our TRE Weekly Running Tuneup includes three additional workouts every week to help get you faster, stronger, and healthier. These short, 10-minute workouts supplement your training runs to mobilize and take care of your joints and muscles and improve your speed and running technique workouts.
These workouts don’t take long, but they are more important than 90 percent of the mileage you put in on a regular basis. The weekly tuneup includes:
Ready to get started with the best running program that will take you to the next level? Sign up for a free seven-day trial to ANY of our training plans to test it out before you make a commitment. Finally, be sure to download our new, improved mobile app for access to new workouts each week and tons of training videos and resources!