Made for Beginners
Whether you're brand new to running, getting back into it, or planning to run/walk, this challenge will help you build toward your Thanksgiving 5K.
Training Starts Monday, August 31st, 2026
Join runners and walkers from across the country virtually inside the RunClub App for our 12-Week Turkey Trot Challenge! 🦃🏃♀️
This Thanksgiving, give yourself a goal worth celebrating! Spend the next 12 weeks training toward a Turkey Trot 5K, whether you plan to run the whole thing, use run/walk intervals, or simply cross the finish line feeling proud.
Build consistency, train with purpose, grow in your faith, and stay motivated with real coaches and a Christian community cheering you on every step of the way.
Whether you’ve never run before, you’re getting back into a routine, or you just want a fun goal to carry you through the fall, this challenge is for YOU.
12 weeks. One finish line. Your Turkey Trot starts here. 🦃🏁
WHAT IS THE
Whether you're brand new to running, getting back into it, or planning to run/walk, this challenge will help you build toward your Thanksgiving 5K.
Spend 12 weeks building consistency, growing in your faith and fitness, and getting ready to cross that Turkey Trot finish line on Thanksgiving Day.
Follow a structured 5K training plan inside the RunClub App and know exactly what to do each day from your first workout to race day.
FAQ
Everything you need to know about our 12-week Turkey Trot Challenge and training for your Thanksgiving 5K!
Choose a membership that fits your journey. Cancel anytime.
Get an inside look at the structure, philosophy, and community that make our Couch to Marathon program so impactful. Inside this 12-page Playbook, you’ll find:
See how our community trains together — physically, mentally, and spiritually — to go the distance.
At Upward Running, there’s more than just running going on here…it’s about purpose, growth, and community.
The back to school challenge program is built anyone. Upward Running offers training plans for every level, from walking to advanced marathon programs. Whether you’re lacing up for your first 5K or chasing a new PR, you’ll find trusted guidance and a supportive community with you every step of the way.
Ready to start your journey? Let’s run this race together!
For as little as 27 cents a day, you can track your runs, follow your plan, and stay connected with the Upward Running community—all in one app. Every mile, every message, and every moment of progress lives right inside the RunClub App.
From walkers and beginners to seasoned marathoners, our step-by-step plans are built to help you grow with confidence. Whether your goal is your first 5K or a new PR, you’ll find a plan that meets you where you are.
There’s more than running going on here. You’ll be surrounded by like-minded runners and walkers who inspire, support, and keep each other accountable every step of the way.
Receive weekly devotionals and Bible verses to encourage your heart and strengthen your faith as you train—reminding you that running is about more than just miles.
Learn from experienced coaches with tips on form, pacing, injury prevention, gear, and race-day strategy—so you can train smarter, not just harder.
Get access to premium apparel and accessories made for the journey—because we can never say no to a good hoodie.
I started the program last December with high blood sugar and cholesterol. This month’s tests showed my blood sugar is now normal, and my cholesterol is cut in half and improving! The Holy Spirit leads us in hard things, and I’m so thankful for this journey—it’s my motivation to keep working hard each week!
Today was a dream come true! I completed my first half marathon. With God’s encouragement and an amazing support team, I pushed through half marathon training, and today was my graduation race! Running wasn’t always my thing, but I’m so grateful for this journey with my family and community! Truly a day to remember!
Ten years ago, my wife and I committed to living fully. We found this community and took our first mile. Since then, we’ve gone through the 5K, 10K, half, and full marathon training, strengthened by incredible support. Today, we run, worship, and live life to the fullest, thankful for Jesus and this community.
Finished my first 10K this morning, and even surprised myself with a faster pace than expected! Along the way, I tried to encourage other runners, inspired by the support I’ve found in Upward Running. This program has given me the foundation to get off the couch and use running as a way to share the gospel.
Get 2 Weeks Free — Use Code UR2WKFR
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