Weeks 5-8 of our Get Running beginners course delivered by The Irish Times in association with ForgetTheGym. This eight week course is designed to take you from inactivity to being able to run 30 minutes non-stop. 

Beginner Week Five

Keep thinking about your pace and technique, and remember to relax

Get Running training plan: Week five Get Running training plan: Week five

You’ve passed the half way point so stick with it

Get inspired

Conor Kane running in the Dr Pat O’Callaghan sports centre in Clonmel. Photograph: John D Kelly No more excuses – time to start pounding the pavements, again
Eight steps to injury-free running
When running with a short-legged German dog, people see you differently

Beginner Week Six

Remember how lucky we are to be able to get out running

Get Running training plan: Week six Get Running training plan: Week six

Focus on how much you’ve progressed in the last five weeks

Get inspired

Maurice and Deirdre Mullins. Photograph: Claire Byrne Photography Going the distance: the ironman who just keeps moving
Tackling her own Everest
Half the battle is getting outside the door

Beginner Week Seven

You're nearly there - keep up the good work

Get Running training plan: Week seven Get Running training plan: Week seven

You’re nearly there - you’re up to 25 minutes

Get inspired

Parkrun races are a runaway success
Hitting the Wall yet? Runners compete in the Great Wall marathon at Huangyaguan (Yellow Cliff Pass) Great Wall of China in Tianjin. The race is regarded as one of the most challenging marathons in the world. Photograph: STR/AFP/Getty Images Marathon tourism proves just the ticket
Sit down and stretch if you want to get up and run

Beginner Week Eight

This is it - the big one. 30 minutes non-stop

Get Running training plan: Week eight Get Running training plan: Week eight

Your goal is in sight: 30 minutes of running non-stop

Get inspired

Run clinic: What to eat on those training runs?
Is everything you think you know about running wrong?
Participants in the Flora Women’s Mini Marathon making their was from Fitzwilliam square, at the start of the 10k run last year. Photograph: Eric Luke Mini marathon, big achievement
Back to GR

Get Social


Follow @IrishTimesRun
Get Tracking Download and print the Get Running Training Log to track of your progress
Got Questions? Submit your queries and our team of experts will answer them during our live sessions
Disclaimer: Swimming is a strenuous activity and is not without risk.  Before embarking on this or any other exercise programme you should consult with your doctor.  By participating in the programme you acknowledge that The Irish Times, Swim Ireland or their agents cannot be held liable for any injuries or other problems that may occur as a result.
  • Terms & Conditions
  • Privacy Policy
  • Cookie Information
  • Cookie Settings
  • Community Standards
  • Copyright
© THE IRISH TIMES