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Ready to walk or run a 10K but not sure where to begin? We've designed two training programs to help you get started. The first program is for individuals who want to complete a 10K by both walking and jogging the event. The second program is for individuals who want to run the entire 10K. You can find detailed training instructions for both programs below.
  • If you have questions about your program, feel free to post them on the Message Boards.
  • Always warm-up before each training session and finish each workout with a cool down period. "Total Time" columns for each workout do not include warm-up and cool down times.
  • Always check with your doctor before starting any exercise program.
10K Walk/Jog Program

This 12-week program is designed for those who can comfortably walk for 20-30 minutes, but want to start incorporating jogging into their program. It is a general guide and may need to be adjusted depending on your fitness level. Adjust speed or distance as necessary.

This program assumes you’ll be walking/jogging a 10K race at the end of 12 weeks. It also assumes you’ll be jogging at a pace of at least 5 miles per hour (12 minutes per mile) or faster, and walking at a pace of at least 3.5 miles per hour (17 minutes per mile) 17 min/mile (3.5 mph) or faster. If your pace is slower, that’s okay; just add 1-2 additional repetitions during each session to make sure you cover enough distance to train for the race. The last week of the program decreases your workout time so that you can rest in preparation for the race.


We recommended doing this walk/jog workout 3 times per week (spread throughout the week, not 3 days in a row), and cross-training another 1-2 times per week. Cross-training includes other cardio activities besides running and walking, such as biking, swimming, elliptical, rollerblading and other sports.



10K Jogging Program

This 12-week program is designed for those who can comfortably run 2 miles, but want to work up to a longer distance. It is a general guide and may need to be adjusted depending on your fitness level. Also adjust speed or distance as necessary. This program assumes you’ll be jogging a 10K race at the end of 12 weeks. The last week of the program decreases your workout time so that you can rest in preparation for the race.


 
We recommended jogging 3 times per week (spread across the week and not 3 days in a row), and cross-training another 1-2 times per week. Cross-training includes other cardio activities besides running and walking, such as biking, swimming, elliptical, rollerblading and other sports.
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About The Author

Jen Mueller Jen Mueller
Jen received her master's degree in health promotion and education from the University of Cincinnati. A mom and avid marathon runner, she is a certified personal trainer, certified health coach and advanced health & fitness specialist. See all of Jen's articles.

Member Comments

  • Wow! This is a great way to build up to running a 10K race. I definitely want to try this. Is there anyway that I can add this article to my favorites? Or perhaps bookmark it? - 2/6/2013 9:46:39 AM
  • I was motivated by this article to sign up and run my first 10k (even though I didn't use any of these training programs). Thanks SP! - 9/17/2012 10:04:39 PM
  • My virtual race comes up between June 3 - 9. I am looking forward to running the 3.1miles. I can do it - 5/22/2012 5:25:44 PM
  • So excited to start this! It would be awesome if it had a tracker like the 5K program ;D - 4/30/2012 12:47:44 AM
  • So excited to start this! It would be awesome if it had a tracker like the 5K program ;D - 4/30/2012 12:47:44 AM
  • I've registered for the July 8 - 14 10K. I'll be walking it, not running. Any others who will be walking the 10K? - 4/29/2012 10:37:13 AM
  • I'd love to follow the training plan, but would love to see it in kms (not miles) thanks - 10/10/2011 7:03:26 PM
  • SUSANGO123
    I am trying my first Walk/Jog 10k for May 1st. I am terrified. I have arthritis in my right knee and hips. But I am determined to do it. - 2/19/2011 12:22:18 AM
  • I'm contemplating a half marathan in October...scary but I think this program might help! - 1/22/2011 3:45:06 PM
  • haven't picked a race yet but doing this training (the running one not the walking intervals). I'm on week 3! So far loving it - scared of 4 miles the end of this week though! AHH! :) - 10/3/2010 7:21:40 PM
  • I am doing the Ari Force 10k in September in Dayton, Ohio - 8/1/2010 10:30:06 AM
  • I'm doing a 10K in October. Maybe I'll try this program instead of the one I came up with on my own. I have 4 months to go and it might keep me motivated. - 6/25/2010 6:46:52 PM
  • I have worked up to 10k now. - 5/31/2010 12:36:24 PM
  • Hello Everyone!

    I've decided to run the Marie Curie London 10K on July 13th (9 Weeks!). I literally decided 5 minutes ago! I'm so glad I found this article, although I'll have to skip a few of weeks (maybe week 4, 7 and 11) to fit it all in. I'm trying to do the run-the-whole-thi
    ng, but I'm also not going to beat myself up if I need to walk it.

    Wish me luck :) - 5/10/2010 7:18:47 PM
  • My friend from high school just challenged me with a 10K reunion the end of March. I have never run a 5K, much less a 10K, but I'm going to start with the walk/jog and see what I can do. - 1/5/2010 11:04:31 PM
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