With an abundance of couch-to-5K programs at your fingertips, from smartphone apps to beginner groups, it’s easier than ever to start running.
Not Active Now? Not a Problem
“A couch-to-5K program is an excellent way to ease yourself into an active lifestyle,” says USA Track and Field-certified running coach Steve Carmichael, creator of RunBuzz.com. They’re designed with beginners in mind to gradually build your endurance. You simply follow an 8- to 12-week plan with 30 to 45 minutes of walk/run intervals, three times a week. You start off super easy, walking most of the time. Then every week, you run a bit more and walk a bit less. And as you get better, you still get walking breaks. “There’s never any shame in walking,” says Carmichael. “Even experienced runners take walking breaks from time to time.”
In the Zone
You’ll be surprised how fast it works. “After a couple of weeks, you’ll start to see noticeable improvement, and you’ll keep seeing improvement as you go,” says Carmichael. Your breathing will become more natural. Running will feel easier. You won’t need to walk as often or as long.
If you’re not very active now, plan to enter your first race 2 to 3 months after you start. If you’re already active, it can work even faster — in as little as 4 to 6 weeks.
Start Here
You can find a couch-to-5K program on your smartphone — try apps such as Active Network’s Couch to 5K app or C25K 5K Trainer by Zen Labs — online, or on social media (search for Facebook groups).
If you’re a beginner, consider joining a local running club’s couch-to-5K program, which may offer individualized plans, one-to-one guidance, and peer support.
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