Couch to 5k

Couch to 5k

Let’s start with the basics, what is couch to 5k? Couch to 5k is a running plan suitable for absolute beginners. Josh Clark came up with the plan in 1996, with some suggesting it was to help his Mum get off the couch and start running and some articles suggesting it was to get over a relationship break up. One thing for sure, is it’s a genuinely brilliant idea and has helped thousands if not millions of runners over the years run their very own 5k starting from the comfort of their sofa! 

The plan is a designed to help new runners start from complete scratch and build up from a few seconds of running to a distance of 5k. The original plan consists of three runs a week with rest days between and lasts a duration of nine-weeks. 

The couch to 5k plan takes away the most difficult challenge that beginners face and that’s knowing exactly where to start and how to start. It’s very easy to get carried away as a new runner and automatically think more is better, but in reality this often leads to injury or over tiredness and leaving runners feel deflated and retiring their new trainers before they’ve even got going. 

Couch to 5k starts with mixing periods of running and walking to help you safely increase the amount of running you’re doing gradually and progressively. Over time your body gets used to the stress of running on your body and your fitness and stamina improves. 

Many coaches, myself included have come up with their own variations on the couch to 5k plan, but the principle remands the same. It’s a programme to help anyone get fitter and healthier and live a more active lifestyle. 

If you’re interested in starting your own couch to 5k journey and want to speak to a member of our coaching team about how we can help you on the greatest journey you’ll ever take, please do get in touch today! Don’t forget to checkout our Zero to Hero FREE training plans at JM Run Club.  Trust us, you won’t regret it!