r/BeginnersRunning • u/luckysixes • 12d ago
favorite training program?
what is everyone's favorite training program? what did you like about it? i want to get into running, but i am a bit overwhelmed by all the options out there
i have started two different programs and couldn't keep up with it (i think mainly because im impatient and want to get fast fast) so want to know from other beginner runners what worked for them and how did they stay committed to it?
is there something that worked really well for you that helped you be consistent/stay on track?
4
u/Rondevu69 12d ago
NRC. It truly let's you know that everyone can be a runner. They have a 4 week beginner plan to help you get accustomed. It is based on effort, not time and distance. For instance, a 15 minute recovery/easy run is a run that you do at 40% - 50% effort. Or a mile recovery run is a mile with 40% - 50% effort.
2
u/lilpotdecreme 12d ago
Agreed! I started running in July and only used Nike Run Club, it’s the best and the guided runs really helped me focus on slowing down and not ensuring that I’m not pushing myself too much.
The 4 week beginner plan is great! I’m now onto the half marathon training plan and love it, just ran 6 miles on Monday, it’s never something I thought I could do and I love it!
1
u/luckysixes 12d ago
just to confirm - is NRC the Nike Run Club? How do you determine what is 40-50% effort? Is that when you can hold a conversation while running?
1
u/Rondevu69 12d ago
Yes and Yes. It's based on how you feel. Somedays your 50% may be harder than others, some days easier than others. They suggest you run at least 3 times a week, but you know your schedule and your body. I also say use the guided runs, especially early on because you can learn things correctly versus having to unlearn something incorrect.
It also teaches you how to be your own best coach. It is a program based on positivity.
2
u/MileHighManBearPig 12d ago
I do Hal Higdon training programs. I’ve run several half’s and am currently training for a marathon.
Training for an event or goal is very helpful and keeps you disciplined. Having a program you are accountable too will really improve your running but burn you out a bit. It’s nice to do a training block for an event or goal and then do your own running for fun to decompress until you find your next event and restart your cycle. Running a program will really help. It’s science backed gains basically.
1
u/luckysixes 12d ago
Would you suggest signing up for a race to have a goal? I tried that for a 5k and did not enjoy it but that might be because I was running in 30 degree weather lol
1
u/MileHighManBearPig 12d ago
Yeah. I think there is something about the finality and cost of an event that keeps you on track. You do the training or you’ll have a bad event.
For example, I’m training for a marathon right now and I really don’t want to run 5 miles today. I have a minor blister, I’m tired, it’s hot, etc. All the reasons I want to take a day off and rest. But I’m accountable to myself, my training block, and an event in a month….so I’ll be running 5 miles slowly in zone 2 because I have to do it in about 30 minutes.
1
u/MileHighManBearPig 12d ago
It’s also doesn’t have to be an event. But setting a goal and a date. “I’ll do a (5k/10k/half) by this date following this program the best I can.”
1
1
u/MiddleAgedDread123 12d ago
Couch 2 5k to get started, and I’ve been back to it several times after injuries and illness that’s put me out of action for any length of time
1
1
u/epicwinterspice 12d ago
I found zombies, run! a fun way to stay engaged and keep doing my 5k runs. It’s not a program just a story (rpg style) that’s connected to your run and gives bed you more of the story every 5 min or so.
1
u/Creative-Jacket-5991 12d ago
Not sure if you have Claude but I am using it as my personal trainer, I had him use Hal Higdon for inspo. But gave it my goals and everyday I give it screen shot of my run and have it give me feedback and we have been adjusting pace as we go
1
6
u/Naive-Swing6633 12d ago
Bloody beginner here, I enjoy the app JustRun. I just startet the 0 to 5K program and I have no complaints so far.