8 Weeks to 5K Running Plan for Beginners (+ FREE 5K Training PDF)

So you’re looking for a 5K running plan for beginners as a new runner? Or maybe you’re a runner looking to get back into running again after time off and want to start training for a 5K.

You’ve found the right place. Our 8 weeks to 5k running plan (aka become a runner 5K / get back to running 5K) is available for FREE as a PDF.

We also offer a premium 8 weeks to 5k running plan featuring other helpful resources including access to our running plan in the app Final Surge, 8 weeks of runner-specific strength training videos, and access to Coach Kelly’s audio-guided runs in the workouts to help you start running as seamlessly as possible.

Is this a 5K Training Plan for Beginners Only?

This is a 5K training plan for beginners, but also anyone who wants to learn how to run a 5K, or anyone who wants to get back into running a 5K without feeling alone or lost along the way.

We typically don’t use terms like “5K training for beginners” because not everyone is necessarily running for the first time or an actual beginner. But whether you’re just starting out or getting back into running after time off or getting back into running after injury, that’s where this 5K training plan comes in handy.

Oh, and if you like what you find here you can join our free online running community

Training for a 5K With Us

Whether you join our 5K running plan for free via the PDF or with our paid premium running plan with strength videos, every training plan begins with walk/running intervals for 3 days a week for 8 weeks culminating in a 5K before you even realize it.

If you’re a member of the “I f*cking hate running club” or “I don’t think I can run” club, this 5K running plan, and guided runs are for you. 

They’ll make you feel seen. They’ll make you laugh. And they’ll make those 8-weeks to 5K fly by. 

Free 5K Training PDF

Be sure to take full advantage of our FREE 5K Training PDF which will slowly build strength and endurance while helping you struggle less and feel more confident running further and further. We know that running sucks! We love to run and we hate to run. If you’re the type of person who thinks the only way they’ll run is if you’re being chased, our free 5K running plan with audio-guided runs will take you from couch to 5K in no time. Our how-to run a 5K plan is both for beginners or those getting back into running again. 

Premium 5K Running Plan for Beginners

The 5K Training PDF is completely free. But if you’re looking for more than a PDF, our premium 5K running plan is for you! Our Become a Runner/Ger Back Into Running 5K Running Plan offers more guidance and features like access to your 5K training plan in the Final Surge app, 8 weeks of strength videos, guided runs by Coach Kelly, and messages and emails with tips and guidance throughout your training from Coach Kelly. We take all the guesswork, thinking, and planning out of it, so that all you ahve to do is follow along and watch 8-weeks fly by.

The guided runs by Coach Kelly were designed to not only motivate and encourage but ENTERTAIN! Coach Kelly will have you laughing your way through 8-weeks of running. Coach Kelly tells you when to run, when to walk, and how to work through self-doubt, fear so that you can struggle less and confidently fight through each run.

Our premium 5K plan comes with 8 weeks of strength work videos that are carefully designed for new runners or runners getting back to running and curated to aid your training program. These strength training workouts help build strength, limit running related and overuse injuries and make running more fun! Strength work is every runner’s secret weapon and our entry level 8-week running series is the perfect compliment to our 5K running plan.

And you’ll also have access to the Final Surge app which is available both on desktop and on your smartphone. If you have an Apple watch or Garmin watch, each workout will push to your watch so not only will Coach Kelly’s audio guided runs tell you when to run or when to walk, but your watch will as well! You’ll also have all the information and resources you need in one place.

choose your plan

Downloadable pdf — free

Our free 8-week become a runner/get back to running plan comes with an 8-week PDF running plan and Coach Kelly’s free audio-guided runs found below.

plan with extras — $19.95

Our premium 8-week Become a Runner/Get Back To Running Plan comes with an 8-week running plan in Final Surge, 8 weeks of Strength Videos, and links to Coach Kelly’s audio-guided runs.

FAQ

More Running Training Plans

Curious about our other running plans beyond how to run a 5K for beginners or getting back into running a 5K? Check out all of the running plans we offer below or consider joining our Badass Lady Gang Team or one of our Training Experiences.

5K plans


10K Plans


10-Mile/ 15K Plans


Half Marathon Plans


Marathon plans


Base Building plans


Get Faster plans


RunDisney plans


Learn More About Badass Lady Gang Membership

The Badass Lady Gang Training Team is a dynamic training team made by and for women who come together to support each other in their running and fitness journeys. Led by experienced coaches, the BALG Training Team offers personalized training plans, expert guidance and resources, multiple weekly virtual coaching calls, and a supportive network to help members achieve their goals, whether it's completing their first 5K or conquering a marathon. Through virtual coaching calls and online forums, the Badass Lady Gang Training Team empowers women to unleash their inner badass and crush their fitness goals, all while fostering a sense of camaraderie and sisterhood.

Learn More About Badass Lady Gang Training Experiences

Badass Lady Gang Training Experiences are immersive programs designed to empower women in their fitness journeys. Led by expert coaches, these experiences offer personalized training plans, virtual coaching calls, supportive community forums, and educational resources to help participants achieve their fitness goals. Whether it's training for a 5K, 10K, half marathon, or marathon, the Badass Lady Gang Training Experiences provide the guidance, motivation, and camaraderie needed to succeed. With a focus on inclusivity, empowerment, and fun, these experiences inspire women to unleash their inner badass and become the strongest, fittest versions of themselves.

Become a runner/ get back to running 5K audio guided runs.

Week 1, Day 1
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Week 1, Run 2
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Week 1, Run 3
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Week 2, Run 3
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Week 5, Run 1
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Week 6, Run 1
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Week 7, Run 1
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Week 8, Run 1
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Week 8, 5K TIME!
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