Coach Yasmin’s 5K Beginner Walk-Run Training Program Presented by ASICS

Are you a first-time 5K participant wanting to go from walking to running for this year’s Cherry Blossom 5K? This is the program for you! Choose this program if you’ve taken a break from running, have never run more than 1 or 2 consecutive miles before, or if you’re active in other sports like cycling, rowing, basketball, but haven’t done much running.

You’ll spend 10 weeks using a walk-run approach to go from short intervals to running a strong and steady 5K on race day. This method has been used successfully by thousands of past participants.

Every participant should have medical clearance before starting the training program. Non-runners should follow the program as closely as possible to get the best results. If you’ve run in the past, you should still follow the time guidelines, but may want to take fewer walking breaks.

Ready to cross the finish line stronger than ever? This training program begins on February 2, 2026.

Questions about the program and whether it is right for you can be sent to Coach Yasmin at 5Kcoach@cherryblossom.org.

Want to talk to other runners doing this program, or ask a question that might be beneficial to others following this program? Visit our Beginner 5K Training Facebook Group.