CERC’s training plans are developed to help you prepare for a specific goal race—whether it’s a 5K, 10K,half marathon, full marathon, or any distance in between. We believe in running as a healthy lifestyle, and our schedules are not designed for “couch to half marathon” or “couch to marathon” approaches, as we worry that a “bucket list” mindset can be detrimental to long-term health.
With that in mind, we encourage members to meet the following minimum mileage guidelines prior to our first run of the season:
Members who are new to running or returning from time off are encouraged to start here. Ideally, a runner should be able to run 2–3 miles per week and complete one mile without stopping prior to the start of the season.
Our Level I Schedule is for runners who have prior running experience and are attempting their first half marathon, or runners with past half marathon experience who want to maintain their training mileage without the rigors and time commitment of a higher-mileage plan. You should be running at least 12–14 miles per week for several weeks prior to the start of the season and have time to commit to 5 days of running.
Our Level I Schedule is for runners who have prior running experience and are attempting their first full marathon, or runners with past marathon experience who want to maintain their marathon mileage without the rigors and time commitment of a higher-mileage plan. You should be running at least 25–30 miles per week for several weeks prior to the start of the season and have time to commit to 5 days of running.
Not sure where you fit? Start with the 5K/10K plan and build gradually. Consistency and healthy progression are always the goal.
© 2026 Columbus Eastside Running Club
