No Boundaries 5K Training

No Boundaries 5K Training | Summer 2026

Our beginner-friendly 5K training programs are designed to meet you exactly where you are—whether you're brand new to running, returning after time away, or ready to take your next step. You’ll build a sustainable fitness routine through walking and run/walk intervals, all while gaining support from a community that cheers for your progress and celebrates every milestone. Our goal is to help you move more comfortably, confidently, and efficiently at every stage of your journey.

No Boundaries offers two 5K training paths in the summer months. Choose No Boundaries 5K if you're just getting started or looking to build consistency, or No Boundaries 5K Performance if you've completed a 5K and are ready to improve endurance, build strength, and introduce more structured workouts (including speed training!). Both programs provide supportive coaching, flexible training plans, and a welcoming, inclusive environment.

No Boundaries 5K: Learn to run. Build the habit.
Learn to run, run/walk, or re-enter the sport. This program focuses on gradually increasing your run and/or walk time to help you build consistency, confidence, and a strong foundation. All paces and experience levels are welcome—whether your goal is to complete your first 5K or simply get back into a routine.

No Boundaries 5K - Performance: Build on your 5K. Run stronger, longer, and more confidently.
For those who have successfully completed a 5K, want to improve their time, and/or are ready to continue building their endurance, strength, and fitness. Training includes gradual increases in time and mileage, along with the addition of speed-based workouts and more volume during the week. Participants are strongly encouraged to pair this program with our summer Speedplay training on Tuesday evenings for an added performance boost. This plan is also a great option for those targeting a 10K this summer.

Not sure which plan is right for you? If you can comfortably complete a 5K (running or run/walking), the 5K Performance program is likely a great next step.

IMPORTANT PROGRAM DATES | Online Registration Open

Program Duration: May 31, 2026 – August 8, 2026

Meet & Greet Kick-Off: Sunday, May 31 @ 9:30 a.m. | Fleet Feet Madison

First Group Run: Saturday, June 6 @ 8:00 a.m.

Registration Deadline: Wednesday, May 27, 2026

GOAL RACE*

Madison Mini-Marathon 5K on August 8, 2026

*Race entry is not included in the training program registration. Participants are welcome to choose another 5K (or 10K) around the same time.

TRAINING PROGRAM RATES 

Early Bird Registration: $75 (through May 13, 2026)

Regular Registration: $85 (May 14 – May 27, 2026)

Late Registration: $95 (May 28, 2026 and after)

MEET AND GREET PROGRAM KICK-OFF

Sunday, May 31, 2026 @ 9:30 a.m. | Fleet Feet Madison (8440 Old Sauk Rd.)

This informational meeting introduces you to the coaching staff and covers:

Program structure and training plans

Safety guidelines and group run protocol

Gear recommendations

How to make the most of your season

We’ll wrap up with a short 20-minute walk to get moving and give everyone a chance to get to know each other.

We encourage all new and returning athletes to attend.

GROUP RUNS/WALKS

Saturdays at 8:00 a.m.: Saturdays will rotate between Orchid Heights Park (3960 Valley Ridge Rd., Middleton), Vilas Park Shelter (1602 Vilas Park Dr., Madison), McDaniel Park (4806 McDaniel Ln., McFarland), Glacial Drumlin Trial (218 S Main St., Cottage Grove), and the Fleet Feet stores.

5K PERFORMANCE ADD-ON

Speedplay – Tuesdays @ 6:00 p.m.: Participants in the No Boundaries 5K Performance program are strongly encouraged to incorporate our summer Speedplay workouts into their training. These sessions are designed to complement your weekly plan and will align with Tuesday’s prescribed workouts. See speedplay program info here.

Speedplay introduces structured speed and interval training in a supportive, approachable environment—helping you improve pacing, build strength, and run more efficiently.

As a 5K Performance participant, you’ll receive a $25 discount on Speedplay registration (code included in your confirmation email). East and west-side meeting locations available.

Speedplay is administered separately from No Boundaries.

FLEET FEET FUN RUNS/WALKS:

Participants are encouraged to join our free mid-week community fun runs to add mileage, meet fellow runners, and build consistency.

Fleet Feet 5K – Mondays @ 6:00 p.m. (3 miles)

Pub Runs – Thursdays @ 6:15 p.m. (3–5 miles)

Fun run registration link here.

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS

A complete 10-week training program for walkers, run/walkers, and runners, with options based on your goals and experience. No matter your pace, there is a place for you!

Weekly program emails packed with training tips, educational insights, route information, and motivational support

Expert coaching, support, and guidance throughout the season

Strength, core, and mobility workouts to complement your walking or running

Educational and interactive seminar series to supplement your training (e.g., good form running, injury prevention, foam rolling techniques, and strength)

1x/week coached and supported group run/walks on Saturdays

Fleet Feet coupon book

Gear wear tests, promotions, and giveaways

Exclusive Fleet Feet/Saucony co-branded gear item

Madison Mini-Marathon race entry discount

A fun, inclusive community for walkers and runners of all levels

NOTES/RECOMMENDATIONS

No previous exercise or running experience is required for our 5K plan. We recommend that you check with your doctor before starting a new fitness program.

All paces and abilities of walkers and runners are welcome.

Our programs are inclusive of a wide variety of paces and ability levels.

You are not “too slow,” and you will not be left behind!

CONTACT & QUESTIONS

Jenna Bartlett: jenna@fleetfeetmadison.com
Fleet Feet Madison: 608-833-9999
Fleet Feet Sun Prairie: 608-834-9999

Fleet Feet Madison & Sun Prairie Run Training Program

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