One of the questions I hear most often is, What’s the best training plan?
The truth is, there isn’t one perfect plan for everyone. The best plan is the one you’ll enjoy, stick with consistently, and that fits your current fitness level and goals.
Whether you’re preparing for your first 5K or chasing a new Half Marathon personal best, here are a few of my favorite training options.
Best For: 5K, 10K & Half Marathon runners looking for a customized training experience
Training Length: Flexible (typically 8–20+ weeks)
Workouts:
Coach Dee’s Thoughts
One of the things I love most about Runna is that it truly adapts to you. The plan changes based on your current fitness level, your race distance, and how many days you want to train each week.
It also syncs beautifully with Apple Watch and Garmin, so your workouts are guided right from your wrist.
If you’re someone who enjoys structure and wants every workout planned for you, this is a fantastic option.
Things to Consider
Best For: First-time runners, walkers, injury prevention, and anyone wanting to enjoy race day.
Training Length: Flexible
Workouts:
Coach Dee’s Thoughts
If you’re participating in a runDisney event, you’ve probably heard of Jeff Galloway—and for good reason! His Run-Walk-Run® method has helped thousands of runners cross Disney finish lines feeling strong.
I especially recommend this program for:
Strategic walk breaks actually help many runners finish faster and feel better, rather than trying to run continuously.
Things to Consider
The plan is simple and easy to follow, but don’t forget to add strength training a couple of times each week to build endurance and reduce your risk of injury.
Best For: Runners who like a traditional, easy-to-follow schedule.
Training Length: Approximately 8–12 weeks for 5K & 10K, 12–16 weeks for Half Marathon
Plan Options
Coach Dee’s Thoughts
I love that the plans gradually increase your mileage while also building in recovery weeks. That recovery is incredibly important, especially if this is your first longer-distance race.
His beginner plans are straightforward without overwhelming new runners with complicated speed workouts.
Things to Consider
If you’re hoping to improve your pace, you may want to add some gentle intervals or hill training later in your program. Otherwise, this is an excellent plan for simply getting you safely to the finish line.
Best For: Runners who enjoy motivation, coaching, and flexibility
Training Length: Customizable
Features:
Coach Dee’s Thoughts
If you’re looking for an incredible free option, Nike Run Club is hard to beat.
The guided runs almost feel like having a coach running alongside you. The encouragement is fantastic, especially on those days when motivation is hard to find.
This app is especially great for newer runners because it teaches you how each workout should feel rather than focusing only on pace.
Things to Consider
Because it’s very flexible, you’ll need a little more self-discipline to stay on schedule compared to a structured plan like Runna.
Coach Dee’s Final Thoughts
No matter which training plan you choose…
Remember why you’re doing this. Every training walk, every run, every early morning alarm, and every mile brings you one step closer to celebrating your loved one with Angelman syndrome on one of the most magical race weekends of the year.
The finish line is waiting—and I can’t wait to cheer you across it.
Happy Training!
Coach Dee
Deanna McCurdy
Windy City Angels – Angelman Syndrome Foundation Coach
Miles for Smiles- Wings to Fly Head Coach
USAT Level I, USAC Level II certified coach
Cell: (720) 603-3315
“Sometimes an Angel needs a little help to Fly.”
