Free Running Training Plans

Free running training plans for 5K, 10K, half marathon and marathon

For most runners, the custom plan creator is the best place to start because it builds around your race date, current fitness, weekly schedule, and goal pace. If you would rather follow a simple set plan, use one of the ready made 5K, 10K, half marathon, or beginner marathon plans below.

Custom plan recommended 5K · 10K · Half · Marathon Set plans plus custom options No signup needed
Best starting point
Most runnersStart with the custom creator so the plan matches your race date and schedule.
Want a simple set plan?Use the ready made 5K, 10K, half marathon, or beginner marathon plan.
Not sure yet?Use the custom creator first, then read the guide that matches your race distance.
Missed a half or full marathon goal?Debrief the race before choosing your next plan.
Plan Library

Start with a custom plan, or choose a set plan

The custom plan creator is the main option for most runners because it adjusts to your race date, schedule, current fitness, and goal pace. The set plans are there if you prefer a simple ready made schedule.

Post-Race Debrief

Missed your half marathon or marathon goal?

Before jumping into another plan, use the Missed Half Marathon and Marathon Race Debrief tool to look at what likely held you back. It checks the pieces runners usually miss: goal choice, training build, long run strength, race-specific work, pacing, fueling, recovery, and race-day execution.

Use the debrief tool →

Use it before you rebuild

  1. If you faded late: check pacing, fueling, long runs, and fatigue resistance.
  2. If the pace never felt possible: check whether the goal matched your current fitness.
  3. If training looked fine on paper: check heat, hills, missed weeks, recovery stress, and race-specific workouts.
  4. If you are choosing another plan: use the result to decide what needs to change next.
Track Your Training

Need a watch for your training plan?

A GPS watch can help with pace, distance, intervals, and long run tracking. Start with the watch finder if you are not sure what level you actually need.

Find Your Watch →
Training Plan FAQ

Questions runners ask before choosing a plan

Which training plan should I start with?
For most runners, start with the custom plan creator because it can use your race date, current fitness, weekly schedule, and goal pace. Use a set plan if you want something simple to follow without entering extra details.
Is a 12 week marathon plan enough?
A 12 week marathon plan can work for runners who already have a solid base. It is usually not the best choice for a brand new runner or someone returning after a long break.
How many days a week should I run?
Many beginner plans use 3 to 4 run days per week. More experienced runners may use 4 to 6 days. The right number depends on your history, schedule, recovery, and injury risk.
What if I miss a run?
Do not cram missed workouts into the next few days. Missing one run is usually fine. If you miss most of a week, repeat that week instead of jumping ahead.
What should I do if I missed my half marathon or marathon goal?
Use the Missed Half Marathon and Marathon Race Debrief before choosing another plan. It can help you decide whether the main issue was the goal, training build, race-specific work, pacing, fueling, recovery, or race-day execution.
Should I use heart rate or pace?
Both can help. Pace is useful for workouts and race goals. Heart rate can help keep easy runs easy. Effort still matters, especially in heat, hills, wind, or fatigue.
Should I use a set plan or the custom creator?
Use the custom creator if your race date, current fitness, schedule, or goal pace matters. Use a set plan if you want a simple ready made schedule for 5K, 10K, half marathon, or your first marathon.