Key takeaways

  • 5K and 10K racing is heavily aerobic (the 5K is roughly 90% aerobic, 10% anaerobic) but requires more speed work than marathon training.
  • The AI structures your training with the right ratio of easy running, threshold work, and VO2 max intervals based on your race distance and current fitness.
  • Tempo runs at lactate threshold pace are the backbone of 5K/10K training. The AI calibrates your threshold from actual workout data, not a generic formula.
  • Recovery data from WHOOP or Oura helps time your hard sessions. Speed work on a well-recovered day produces better training stimulus than grinding through intervals when you're fatigued.

AI 5K & 10K Coach

Shorter races demand a different kind of fitness than marathons. Your AI coach builds 5K and 10K plans with the right mix of speed, threshold, and recovery work based on your data.

Speed work programming

The AI prescribes interval sessions based on your current fitness level. Paces come from your recent race and workout data. As your fitness improves, interval paces adjust upward automatically.

Threshold calibration

Your lactate threshold is estimated from tempo run and interval data rather than a formula. The AI watches for the heart rate and pace relationship that indicates your threshold, and updates it as you get fitter.

Race time prediction

Based on your recent interval performances, tempo runs, and long easy runs, the AI generates a race time prediction that updates weekly. It accounts for the specific demands of 5K vs. 10K racing.

Taper and race-day strategy

For your target race, the AI structures a short taper (typically 7-10 days for 5K/10K) and provides a race-day pacing strategy based on your recent workout data and the course profile.

Frequently asked questions

How is 5K/10K training different from marathon training?

5K and 10K racing demands more speed and VO2 max work relative to marathon training. Weekly mileage is lower but intensity is higher. The AI shifts the training mix to prioritize threshold and interval work while still building your aerobic base.

What data does it use for 5K/10K coaching?

Pace, heart rate zones, and splits from Strava for every workout. Recovery data from WHOOP or Oura for timing hard sessions. The AI uses your interval and tempo data to estimate current race fitness rather than relying on generic calculators.

Can it help me break 20 minutes in the 5K?

Yes. Set your goal time and the AI builds a plan targeting that specific pace. It structures interval paces, tempo work, and volume progression to get you there. Your predicted race time updates weekly based on training data.

How many speed sessions per week?

Typically 2-3 for 5K/10K training: one interval session, one tempo, and potentially one fartlek or strides day. The AI adjusts based on your recovery data and how you responded to the previous week's hard sessions.

Is it good for someone new to racing?

Yes. For newer racers, the AI focuses on building consistent easy mileage first and introduces speed work gradually. It uses heart rate data to keep you from going too hard too soon, which is the most common mistake.

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