Hi there my running friend this is Coach Claire Bartholic, the Planted Runner, and this is the

Run to the Top Podcast, one of the first and only running podcast dedicated to making

you a better runner with each and every episode. We are created and produced by the

expert team of running coaches at runnersconnect.net where you can find the

best running

coaching plans to fit every runner and every budget.

One of the most popular race distances out there for recreational and

professional runners alike is 5K. A 5K race is 3.1 miles long and if you live in any decently sized town or city in the United States, you can find a 5K race just about every weekend, especially in the nice weather months. Part of the reason they are so popular is because

they're so accessible. Most people can walk three miles, and most relatively fit people can

run three miles. So the 5K is a fundraiser's dream

race distance. If you're just starting to get in shape a 5K is an admirable and achievable goal and it's a great way to showcase your newfound

fitness. More seasoned runners show up at 5K races to test their skills, polish up their speed, or to get a hard workout in with thousands of their closest friends in the middle of their marathon training. The beauty of a 5K for these

runners is that it's long enough to still be highly aerobic yet short enough to

really crank down on some speed.

And unlike a marathon, racing a 5K

won't leave you walking funny for the next several days.

Meaning you can slip in 5Ks

almost as much as you like in a marathon buildup without missing a beat of training

with extra recovery days.

On today's run to the top podcast, I'm going to dial down on the 5K distance.

You'll learn why the 5K is such a great distance for all interns runners, how to train

for the 5K, and I'll talk about some racing techniques

...