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Intermediate

5K Training Plan

A 6-week plan to run a faster, stronger 5K — structured running paired with indoor cycling speed work to sharpen your pace.

6-week plan3-4 sessions/weekStart this plan

If you can already run continuously and want to race a faster 5K, this 6-week plan adds structured speed and tempo work to your running while indoor cycling tempo sessions build the extra aerobic sharpness that turns a comfortable jog into a confident race pace.

This plan is dynamic

Every cycling session in this plan automatically scales its power targets to your FTP, so it adapts as you get fitter — no need to guess your numbers or redo the math yourself. Life happens too: drag any session to a different day on your calendar whenever your routine changes.

Week-by-week breakdown

1

Base

Weeks 1–2

Easy running paired with Zone 2 cycling and recovery spins to prime your legs.

2

Speed Build

Weeks 3–4

Tempo running sessions and cycling tempo intervals to build race pace comfort.

3

Race Sharpening

Week 5

Your sharpest week — shorter, faster efforts on both the road and the bike.

4

Taper

Week 6

An easy week of recovery spins to arrive at race day with fresh legs.

Frequently asked questions

How much can I improve my 5K time in 6 weeks?

Runners with an existing base commonly see 30–90 seconds of improvement in 6 focused weeks — genetics and starting fitness both play a role.

Do I need to run every day?

No — 3–4 structured running days a week is plenty; the cycling sessions in between add aerobic volume without extra impact.

More training plans

Half Marathon Training PlanMarathon Training Plan10K Training Plan

Ready to start training?

Start this plan