How much time should I train for a 10K race?

Question

I've been running regularly for about 2 weeks now and the idea of running a 10K gets me motivated to keep going. But I am unsure as to how long I should train before I sign up for one. I chose a 10K because I know I can run a 5K on 2 hrs of sleep and no training. A 10K seems like more of a challenge for me to work towards. Any training advice is welcome too.

Answer 1

Since you can run a 5k now add 1 mile per week to your longest run until you get to 7 miles.  I know that's more than 10k, but over distance training is good, it allows for you to run harder on race day without blowing up.  Once your distance is up to 7 miles work on your speed until you're satisfied, then you're ready to race.  It should take about 6 weeks.

Answer 2

It really depends on what you want. As the others say, there are programs around which would help you.

But you seem pretty confident, so I do not see any reason why you should not try one soon. It will probably feel more like a marathon effort for your legs, and as long as you don't start too fast and just aim to finish, then go for it.

You can then use this time as the motivation to train some more and aim to go faster. If you ran one every month, then that would be a good regime of using them to improve yourself and harden you up, and they act as good training efforts.

Start doing a bit of research on different type of running programs, meanwhile keep consistant with your training.

Answer 3

Hi

I recommend finding a descent training plan on the web

If you push yourself without a plan you might get hurt.

Probably 1 12 week plan would be good.