Whether you’re a casual jogger or a multi-marathon finisher, all runners can agree that there’s nothing better than showing up to your race feeling prepared, confident, and in peak condition. The easiest, most efficient way to get there? A quality training plan that helps you plan your workouts and build your fitness so that you don’t have to worry about feeling unprepared on race day.
Here’s a selection of the best-selling running training plans on TrainingPeaks, curated for runners of all levels. Plus, save 15% on one year of TrainingPeaks Premium for a limited time when you purchase a training plan.
1. Best Training Plan for Running Your First Marathon
This plan is great for newer runners preparing for their first marathon, masters athletes, or more experienced runners who need or prefer a relatively low-volume training program.
- Before you begin the plan, build your training to the point where you’re running at least three times per week for up to six miles or more.
- This plan presents each workout’s intensity target by heart rate, but pace, power, and RPE versions of this plan are also available.
- Each workout can be exported to a supported device, which will automatically guide you through the session with duration, lap, and intensity prompts.
2. Best Plan for Trail Runners Who Want to Strength Train
If your goal is to do more trail running in 2024, consider this 12-week training plan. You’ll build fitness and keep your body resilient and strong with four runs and two running-specific strength sessions per week.
- Running sessions vary from 40 minutes to two and a half hours.
- Home-based strength sessions are 45 minutes and include videos of the exercises. Gym access is not required.
- Stretching and foam rolling videos are also included to optimize your recovery.
- A two-week taper in the training plan ensures that you’re fresh and fast on race day.
- This plan gets you in great shape for a 20-30 km trail run.
3. Best Training Plan for Running Your First Half Marathon
Is running your first-ever half marathon on your 2024 bucket list? Then this is the plan for you. The workouts in this training plan gradually build your fitness and confidence levels so that you’re feeling like a million bucks come race day.
- All the workouts are personalized around your current fitness, so you’ll always train at the best level for your needs.
- A typical week includes four runs designed to easily fit into your busy schedule.
- The plan includes scheduled recovery time and strength work to help you stay strong and avoid injury.
- Access to exclusive in-plan videos helps you make instant gains in pacing, nutrition, and more.
- You’ll get email coach support throughout your training to answer any questions you have along the way.
4. Best Training Plan for Ultra Marathon Beginners
Ideal for runners with some running background and the ability to handle 25-mile weeks, this 20-week ultra training plan improves your trail running performance and prepares you for a 50 km race.
- Includes an eight-week base period that solidifies general strength and an aerobic base.
- The meat of the program is a six-week block that focuses on the two principal components of any ultra-distance trail run: uphills and long distance.
- Structured workouts are based on RPE (rate of perceived exertion), making it a great option for those who don’t have a smartwatch or prefer not to train using technology.
- The final two weeks include a taper and rest period to prepare you for a long trail run or race of around 30 miles/50 kilometers
5. Best Training Plan for the Injured Runner
Sidelined by injury? Make an epic comeback in 2024 with this five-week return-to-running training plan. This rest and recovery included in this plan also makes it a great option for new runners.
- This training plan starts any day you want after you’re cleared to return to running by your doctor.
- Prevent future injury with vital, runner-specific strength and mobility sessions throughout the plan.
- Includes email support from Coach Nadja to answer any questions.
- You’ll be back to running 30 minutes steady after just five weeks.
Whatever your goals are for 2024, reach them faster, stronger, and more confident with the right training plan.
