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5 km Running Plan for Beginners

A 5K is a 5 km run, and this is how most people get there: short runs with walking breaks that grow every week. Pick your level and your weeks, and print the plan.

How this works

The plan climbs a ladder of run lengths: 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 10, 12, 15, 20, 25 and then 30 minutes without stopping, which is about 5 km at an easy pace for most people. If you can already jog 5 or 10 minutes you start higher up. Every session starts and ends with a 5 minute walk. Your last week ends with a 5 km run.

Track every run in Treqz Run.

Follow this plan in the app, claim the streets you run, and keep a streak. Treqz Run opens soon.

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Quick questions

What is a 5K?

5K means 5 kilometres, about 3.1 miles. Many people also write it as 5 km. A first 5K usually takes beginners 30 to 45 minutes.

How long does it take to go from zero to 5 km?

Most beginner plans take 6 to 10 weeks with 3 sessions a week. This tool makes 6, 8 or 10 week plans.

Can I walk during the run?

Yes. The early weeks are run and walk intervals, and the walking breaks get shorter as you build up.

What if I miss a session or a week?

Repeat the week you missed rather than skipping ahead. Do not double up sessions to catch up.

Is this medical advice?

No. If you have a health condition, are pregnant, or have not exercised in a long time, check with a doctor first. Stop and rest if you feel chest pain, dizziness or sharp pain.

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