logo
BoostcampPNG
Couch to 5k
Beginner–IntermediateFree

Couch to 5k

Go from the couch to running a 5k in 9 weeks

Dan waters
Dan waters· Apr 2025
49athletes running this program
iOS & Android

Overview

Length
9 weeks
Days / week
3 days
Level
Beginner, Intermediate
Goal
Athletics
Equipment
At Home
Session length
40 min
This is a common overload running program meant to take you from 0 running to a 5k in 9 weeks. It is important stretch before each day. It starts with intervals of run then walk run then walk for repeated sets until you are able to ramp up to longer runs. This is a 3 day a week program

Who it's for

Beginners new to structured strength training
Athletes focused on athletics
Athletes who can train 3 days per week
Athletes who prefer training at home with minimal equipment

Muscle engagement

Front
Back
Other
100%
Week 1 Workouts
#ExerciseSetsRepsLoad
1Walk15 min@6
2Run81 min70%
3Walk81.5 min@6
4Walk15 min@6
#ExerciseSetsRepsLoad
1Walk15 min@6
2Run81 min70%
3Walk81.5 min@6
4Walk15 min@6
#ExerciseSetsRepsLoad
1Walk15 min@6
2Run81 min70%
3Walk81.5 min@6
4Walk15 min@6

Weeks 2–9 are in the app

Download Boostcamp to follow the full program with auto-progression and built-in coaching notes.

Common questions

Yes, Couch to 5k is completely free to follow on Boostcamp. Download the app on iOS or Android, find the program, and start your first workout immediately. All 9 weeks are fully unlocked.

This is a home workout program. No gym required. Make sure you have consistent access before starting, since the progression model assumes you can perform the same movements week over week.

Each session typically takes around 40 minutes to complete. That estimate covers your working sets but doesn't account for warm-up or rest between sets, so budget a little extra time when you're first learning the movements.

Couch to 5k is structured around 3 training days per week, with rest days built in to allow for recovery. The Boostcamp app lets you reschedule sessions if your week doesn't go to plan.

The program runs for 9 weeks. The structure is designed so that each week builds on the last, with weights, volume, or intensity progressively increasing as you go.

Couch to 5k is available inside the Boostcamp app, free on iOS and Android. Once you download the app, you can search for the program by name. The app tracks all your sets and weights automatically, so you always know exactly what to do next session.

Get started

Boostcamp app
1,000+ free programsStrength, hypertrophy, powerlifting and more, from elite coaches. All free.
Auto-progressionWeights and targets update automatically based on how you perform.
Coaching notesBuilt-in cues from the creator inside every workout session.
Progress trackingLog every set and see your strength gains over weeks and months.
Advanced analyticsTrack volume, intensity, and 1RM trends to see exactly how your training is evolving.
Free on iOS & Android