Walking Plans
Faith-filled and beginner-friendly. Our walking programs are perfect for those just starting out or looking to stay active without the pressure of running.
Is running or walking in a race on your bucket list—but you’re not sure where to start?
Upward Running meets you right where you are and helps you take the next step forward—one mile at a time. With the right community and Christ-centered encouragement, you’ll discover that big goals are possible. Along the way, you’ll build strength, gain confidence, and experience how faith fuels every stride.
Explore our training plans and challenges below!
The Big Beach Marathon Weekend in Gulf Shores, Alabama, is a premier coastal event featuring 5K, half marathon, and full marathon races. Set along white sand beaches and scenic Gulf State Park trails, this event brings the Upward Running community together for one incredible finish line weekend. Even if you can’t attend in person, you can still participate in the training program and celebrate your finish anywhere.
Walk or run 26.2 miles and cross the finish line in Gulf Shores—or at your own local race.
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Walk or run 13.1 miles with structured support and finish strong at the Big Beach Festival or any race near you.
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Walk or run 3.1 miles with us and celebrate with beachside fellowship and community at the Big Beach 5K.
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Upward Running also offers challenges you can start anytime!
All plans kick off on a Monday, and you’ll still enjoy every benefit of the RunClub App and our supportive Upward Running community.
In addition to the plan below, we also offer walking plans, intermediate and advanced training options, and maintenance plans to help you stay strong between races.
A 54-week program designed to take you from the couch to a marathon finish line!
Learn MoreGo from the couch to 13.1 with confidence. Perfect for beginners and returning runners alike.
Learn MoreA 26-week program that will take a beginner runner or walker from the couch to crossing a 10K finish line! You pick the race!
Learn MoreGo from the couch to crossing a 5K off your bucket list! Perfect for walkers and beginner runners.
Learn MoreALSO AVAILABLE
Faith-filled and beginner-friendly. Our walking programs are perfect for those just starting out or looking to stay active without the pressure of running.
For runners looking to keep their momentum going, our maintenance plans are designed to help you stay consistent between training cycles—whether you’re recovering, rebuilding, or refocusing.
For seasoned runners ready to level up. These intermediate and advanced plans help you chase personal records, build endurance, and train with purpose.
At Upward Running, there’s more than just running going on here—it’s about purpose, growth, and community.
While the Couch to Marathon program is built for beginners, 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.
Get 2 Weeks Free — Use Code UR2WKFR
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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