The 9 Best Online Sources for Running Plans
Running is a simple form of exercise that requires only your legs and a pair of running shoes. It is considered one of the best methods of physical activity because of its great benefits, including strengthening muscles, facilitating healthy weight loss, and promoting better sleep.
But unfortunately, without a solid training plan, running can be difficult to stick to. And if you want to begin training for an upcoming race, doing so without a plan is almost impossible. Below are several online sources for running plans to ensure your running is effective and enjoyable.
1.Runner’s World
Runner’s World is an online magazine that covers everything running-related. From upcoming running events and essential running gear to runners' health and tons of different training plans. The training plans on Runner’s World are suitable for all skill levels, from veteran marathon runners to absolute beginners who want totry a couch to 5K program.
It’s easy to find the running plan of your choice: simply navigate to theTraining Plantab, where you’re able to download and save your plan, print it out, and mark off each training day as your progress.
The Nike website has four running training plans available to download—5K, 10K, Half-Marathon, and Marathon. Both the 5K and 10K are only 8 weeks in length, while the Half-Marathon is 14 weeks and the Marathon training plan is just over 4 months.
Each of the plans is pretty detailed and even includes a pace chart to help you figure out your pace targets. In addition, you canmake the most of the Nike Run Club mobile app, which is one of thebest running apps for beginners.
Strava is widely known among runners for being an effective way to track your exercise and connect with other runners. But the Strava website also offers various customizable running plans, from a six-week 5K plan to a 12-week marathon plan. The best bit is that you can personalize your plan depending on how often you run per week as well as when you want to start.
Thereafter, once you’ve decided on a plan, you’ll get an email daily with your training program. Fortunately, if you’re not 100% set on using Strava’s training plans, you can use the free 30-day trial to test them before signing up for a subscription.
4.Training Peaks
What makes Training Peaks unique is that the running plans are all written by qualified coaches. The only downside is that you have to pay for Training Peaks' training plans, and the prices vary based on the plan and the coach who created it.
For instance, a marathon training plan might cost as much as $525 while a trail running plan might cost as little as $4.95. Yet, whatever your running goals are, there’s a plan available to help you crush them. In addition, Training Peaks features training plans for not only running but also cycling, swimming, rowing, and lots more.
5.The Running Clinic
If you’re looking for an online platform with plenty of basics like online courses, resources, and tools then The Running Clinic is for you. One of the best features that The Running Clinic has to offer is the selection of training programs for both adults and kids.
What’s more, there are plans for those returning to running after an injury. These running plans may not be very detailed and complex, but they’re super simple to follow. And the kids' running plans are a great way toget your little ones up and moving!
6.Coach Parry
Lindsey Parry is an official Comrades Marathon coach, and now it’s possible to train with one of the best coaches using her online training plans. There are multiple plans available, fromRunning Through MenopauseandFaster Beyond 50to custom one-on-one training plans created just for you.
The Running Through Menopause plan is particularly nice if you’re a woman over the age of 40 and need a little help tobecome more active during menopause. Keep in mind that Coach Parry’s plans do require payment, be it through paying a one-time fee or subscribing to an annual or monthly payment plan.
7.All About Marathon Training
Created by marathon lover and running coach, Molly, All About Marathon Training is the ultimate resource for average runners who want to turn into marathoners. On the site, you’ll find training schedules, nutritional information, running motivation, courses, a digital training log, and a variety of free running plans.
There’s even an entire page dedicated to the best beginner, intermediate, and advanced marathon running plans. To figure out which plan is best for you, you need to first determine factors like your fitness level and running history. The advanced plans consist of plans for marathon runners who want to reach a specific time goal or want to improve their previous time.
8.Marathon Handbook
The Marathon Handbook was created to help people run further and better. And it doesn’t matter which plan you choose, because they’re all completely free. Besides being free to use, every running plan includes a weekly overview of each day’s training instructions like running distance and pace.
Not all the plans are the same though; some include strength training and others include cross-training on various days. Moreover, there’s always at least one rest day per week, so you cantry an active recovery idea. Feel free to download and print your chosen plan out to make it easy to check off the days and add any notes.
9.Runtastic
Whether you’re beginning your running journey or on an extremely advanced level, Runtastic has a training plan for you. Particularly, their beginner-friendly running program is ideal if you need help preparing your body without overdoing it. The program is divided into several phases, each lasting three weeks along with handy YouTube videos to demonstrate how to prepare for your run and recover afterward.
Runtastic is not only an excellent website where you can find multiple running plans, but also an awesome running tracker app (Runtastic is available foriOSandAndroid). The app allows you to track your distance, cadence, pace, and calories burned. Plus, you can join fun running challenges for some added motivation.
Bring Shape, Structure, and Satisfaction to Your Running
Staying fit and healthy doesn’t always require fancy exercise equipment and years of experience. You can get all you need from something as simple as running. But if you want to be a successful runner, improve over time, and stick to it for the long haul, it’s important to use a running training plan or program.
So whether you’re a new runner or a seasoned pro, these running plans are available online to help you enhance your running life.
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