News and articles from Running Training Plan
It’s just another number, 20. But like many running benchmarks, 20 minutes for 5k is what many would say defines a ‘serious runner’.
Few people will be able to break the 20-minute barrier without some determined training and, of course, natural talent.
This is especially true for women who are at a very approximate 10% disadvantage.
This schedule will not create magic; you’ll
The sub 30 minute 5k is often the first real running goal for a new runner after becoming able to run continuously. The popularity of both the Couch to 5k programme and Park Run has created a vast number of new runners. Some — those blessed with appropriate genes — will crack 30 minutes for 5k on their first attempt; they might well go on to threaten the 20 minute
It’s for anyone who is keen to run under 25 minutes for 5k. Of course, this covers a wide range of runners; for example, a new runner who has just run their first 5k in 27 minutes and wants to target 25, or, an experienced runner who has been just outside of 25 for years and feels they need more structured training to make the time. The type of training that these runners do will be as varied
