Durham City Run Festival 2025 is just around the corner – and if you’ve done a parkrun or a family 5K and fancy stretching yourself a bit further, there’s still plenty of time to go from running 5K to completing a 10K in time for Durham.
You’ve got eight weeks. That’s all you need to go from “I’m not sure I could manage a 10K” to “I’ve just smashed one through the streets of Durham.”
It’s true – 10K can sound like a big step if you’re used to running 5K. But with a bit of a plan, some steady training and a touch of northern grit, you’ll be surprised at what you can achieve.
Why do your first 10K at Durham City Run Festival?
Because there’s nothing quite like it.
You’ll run past some of the most iconic sights in the country – from the cathedral to the castle – and cross the finish line at Palace Green with crowds cheering you on. It’s not just a race, it’s an experience. And we promise, you’ll remember it.
Whether you’re a County Durham local or coming from further afield, this event has the kind of atmosphere that carries you through. Friendly faces, proper support and a great sense of community.
So, if you’ve been waiting for a sign to take on your first 10K, this is it.
Can I go from 5K to 10K in 8 weeks?
Absolutely. If you can already run 5K – even if it’s with a few walk breaks – then you’ve got a solid base to build on. It’s not about speed, it’s about time on your feet and building up gradually.
That said, everyone’s different. Before you dive into any training plan, it’s always best to check in with your GP or a physio, especially if you’ve had injuries in the past. And if you can, working with a running coach or joining a local running group can make a big difference – they’ll help tailor things to you, keep you motivated and make it more fun too.
But if you’re looking for a simple guide to get started, here’s an example of how you might build up from 5K to 10K over the next eight weeks.
Your 8-week 5K to 10K plan
Weeks 1–2 – get moving:
- 3 runs per week
- 1 steady 5K
- 1 short, easy jog (or walk/run mix)
- 1 slightly longer run – start with 5.5K and add a bit each week
Weeks 3–5 – build confidence
- Keep it steady – don’t rush
- Try running 6–8K once a week
- Add a few short bursts of faster running (nothing daft – a handful of 30-second pickups here and there is enough)
Weeks 6–7 – nearly there
- Run 9K once to show yourself you can
- Slow things down slightly – this is your taper
- Focus on feeling good, not going fast
Week 8: Durham Week!
- Easy runs only – 20–30 minutes to stay loose
- Rest up, hydrate and fuel well, and get ready
- Pick up your race number, enjoy the buzz and trust your training
Remember – the exact details of the plan aren’t the be-all and end-all. What really matters is that you progress carefully but consistently. Small, steady steps are what take you from where you are now to where you want to be. Whether that’s adding half a kilometre each week, running one more day or just feeling a bit more confident – it all adds up. The key is to keep showing up, listen to your body and enjoy the journey.
Top tips for first-time 10K runners
- Slow is strong. It’s not a sprint. Run slower than you think you need to – especially at the start.
- Run/walk is still running. Don’t worry if you take walk breaks – loads of runners do, especially on their first 10K.
- Keep it simple. You don’t need fancy kit or high-tech gear. Just comfy shoes and a bit of consistency.
- Don’t overdo it. More training isn’t always better. Stick to three runs a week and let your body adapt.
- Enjoy the process. Yes, you’re training, but it should still be fun. Explore new routes, run with mates, stick a podcast on. Keep it interesting.
You’ve got 8 weeks. You’ve got this.
We see it every year at Durham City Run Festival – people turning up a little nervous, not sure they can do it… and then crossing the line with the biggest grin on their face. There’s nothing like it.
This summer, that could be you.
So if you’ve been wondering whether you’ve got a 10K in you – stop wondering. Start training. And get yourself to Durham this July.
Ready to go from 5K to 10K? Sign up for the Durham City Run Festival 10K today and make summer 2025 your running breakthrough.
