Participants

Training

Before you get to the finish, you've got to first prepare yourself to get to the start line.

Embrace your pace

The 10K distance is very popular with beginner runners, especially those who have done a 5K race but don’t feel they’re quite ready to take on the half-marathon. As a test of both speed and endurance, this distance combines the best aspects of the 5K and the marathon.

Keep in mind, of course, that there is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all training program. While the 10K training schedules offered here are solid and dependable, you should feel free to tinker with them and make them your own.

Training Plans

Race day is going to be here before you know it which means it’s time to set some goals, stick to a plan, and execute it on Charlotte’s biggest stage! We’ve worked with Forward Motion CLT to confidently get you to start line this year. Check out our options below and then download, print, and stick that sucker on your fridge tonight!

Beginner Plan

Intermediate Plan

Advanced Plan

Run with us

As we near race day, we love being out and about at as many of the run clubs we possibly can! Meet us at whichever is closest to you or a new one you’ve yet to check out:

Strength Training

Once again, we’ve partnered with Carolina Sports Clinic to help you fully prep for race day with no only 3 separate training plans based on you, but also strength training to keep you injury free all the way up to race day! Check out these 7 videos to work everything from your ankles all the way up to your core. Plug in 2 – 3 of these exercises and do 3 sets on the days it indicates “strength” in the schedule. All three plans include it because it is so important in training!

Pace Team

We’re working with runCLTrun and the Charlotte Running Club to create a pacing team to get you to the finish line whether it’s your first 10K or your going for a new PR! We will have pacers for:

40 Minutes = 6:26 min/mi pace
45 Minutes = 7:14 min/mi pace
50 Minutes = 8:02 min/mi pace
55 Minutes = 8:51 min/mi pace
60 Minutes = 9:39 min/mi pace
65 Minutes = 10:27 min/mi pace
70 Minutes = 11:15 min/mi pace
75 Minutes = 12:04 min/mi pace
80 Minutes = 12:52 min/mi pace
85 Minutes = 13:45 min/mi pace (Maximum Pace)

Training FAQs:

How far is a 10K in miles?

In miles, a 10K race is 6.2 miles long. Just long enough to make it a solid challenge without breaking you down.

How much time do I need to train for a 10K?

The training period you will need for a 10K race depends on numerous factors, including your current fitness level, your running experience, and your goals for the race. Our plans have you set to complete our race after 10 weeks of training.

What advice would you give a new runner?

Don’t do too much too soon. Don’t feel like you have to go out and start running every single day. Build up your runs at your own pace. Let the training do its job.

How do the pace groups work?

Our experienced pace teams will lead you to your goal by running with you all the way. The Pacers will run mostly even splits (adjusting a bit for that wonderful Mount 277 aka Queens Climb). The 3 person pace teams will be giving their pace group a hug the whole way: one pacer will be at the front of the group, one will be at the back, and one will float in the middle– all offering encouragement and support. The front of the group will come in 1-2 minutes ahead of the goal time, the back will cross that line right at it.