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8 Week Intermediate 10K Training Plan with Strength Training

Unlock Your Potential: The Complete 10k Performance Plan

Experience Level

Intermediate

Number of Weeks

8

Training Plan Introduction

Ready to Find Your Missing Piece?

You’re a serious intermediate runner, chasing a new PB. But you suspect that just running more isn’t the answer. You’ve heard that strength training is the key to unlocking the next level, but you’re unsure how to integrate it effectively without compromising your runs or risking injury.

Trying to add your own strength work can be confusing and even counterproductive. The wrong exercises can make you sore for your key runs, and without a cohesive plan, you’re just adding more fatigue instead of building effective, functional strength.

This 8-Week Plan with Strength is the complete system to unlock your next level of performance. It seamlessly integrates a scientifically structured running plan with targeted strength training, turning you into a more powerful, efficient, and durable athlete.

This plan is engineered for you if:

  • You’re an intermediate runner who is serious about a new PB and understands that becoming a stronger, more resilient athlete is the key to unlocking it.
  • You need a complete, cohesive plan that adapts to your schedule, allowing you to arrange your key run and strength sessions via the flexible TrainingPeaks calendar.
  • You’re ready to stop guessing in the gym and follow a structured strength program designed specifically to make you a faster, more economical runner.

Key Features

Your Complete Toolkit for Unlocking Speed and Strength

When you purchase this plan, you get more than a schedule—you receive a complete toolkit for a total performance upgrade.

  • A holistic 8-week program combining periodized running with two weekly, running-specific strength sessions.
    • This powerful combination builds your cardiovascular engine while simultaneously improving running economy and building resilience against injury.
    • You won’t just achieve a new PB; you’ll build a stronger, more bulletproof body that can handle higher training loads for years to come.
  • The ‘Why’ Behind Every Workout.
    • Each session, including strength, includes a full description of its purpose, so you’re not just exercising blindly.
    • You’ll stay highly motivated by understanding how every part of the plan makes you a stronger, more capable runner.
  • Improved Running Economy.
    • The strength work builds a more stable core and powerful stride, meaning you use less energy at any given pace.
    • This “free speed” allows you to run faster for longer, which is the key to smashing your 10k personal best.

The Proof: A Trusted, Complete Solution

This is our most popular intermediate plan because it delivers a complete solution. The integrated approach is proven to build stronger, more efficient, and more injury-resistant runners.1 It’s a system trusted by those who are ready to stop just training hard and start training smart under the guidance of an expert coach.

Meet Your Coach

This plan was meticulously developed by Chris Searle, a fully qualified England Athletics and British Triathlon coach who understands how to synergize strength and running for maximum results.

Your Questions, Answered

  • How do I fit the strength sessions in? The plan is structured for you. The strength sessions are placed on specific days to complement your running, not interfere with it.
  • What equipment do I need? For the running, you will need good running shoes. The strength sessions in this plan require access to a gym.
  • How do I access the plan after purchase? Your purchase is made securely through the TrainingPeaks website. Once complete, the plan is automatically added to your new or existing free TrainingPeaks account, allowing you to start your training immediately.

The Key to Your Next PB Isn’t Just on the Road.

It’s time to train like a complete athlete. Unlock the strength you never knew you had and translate it into speed you’ve only dreamed of.

Get Your Complete Performance Plan Now

Training Plan Sample(s)

Training Plan Cost

Training plans are processed in USD $. Conversions are estimates.

Full Compatibility

This training plan is compatible with...

Your Coach

Chris Searle the head coach of efficient endurance

Hi, I’m Chris.

I’m a UK-based, qualified running and triathlon coach with 12 years of professional experience.

I’ve coached athletes to achieve everything from parkrun personal bests to podium finishes at national events.

My approach focuses on efficient training methods to help you reach your running goals, whether that is completing your first race or setting a new PB.

FAQ's

These plans are tailored for athletes of all levels, from beginners to advanced, looking to maximize their performance. If you’re unsure of which level you are, get in touch!

The only thing you need is a trainingpeaks account and the usual running kit (running shoes and adequate clothing) but to get the most out of your training plan, having the following would be ideal:

  • Compatible* smartwatch

The following items are optimal but not necessary:

  • Chest Based Heart Rate Monitor

*All common devices sync with trainingpeaks, check here to see if your device is compatible with the structured workout feature so you can follow your sessions on the go.

Training sessions are written in an optimal order for improvement, progression and recovery, but plans change and when they do you can move sessions across days and weeks with a premium training peaks account.

If you need to move things around but are not sure what is best, get in touch and I will help you out.

Most likely. Plans that have strength sessions included use weights such as dumbbells, barbells, kettlebells and cable machines. You don’t have to do these sessions but they add another dimension to your training that running alone can not do.

Sometimes, we have to miss a session, life gets in the way. Fortunately these plans are robust and consistency and efficiency will keep you progressing. Don’t fret over a missed session and don’t try and catch up either, you will still keep moving forwards.

You can adjust the schedule or swap sessions with a premium training peaks account; email support is available for advice if you’re unsure of what to do.

Every session includes detailed instructions and the rationale behind it. Feel free to email if further clarification is needed.

Improved endurance, better race-specific fitness, and confidence on race day. Results depend on how disciplined you are to the plan- it is designed to keep you motivated.

Our guarantee ensures that you are on the right training plan for you. If you find your plan is too much, too little, too hard or too easy, get in touch and we will swap you onto a more suitable plan.

We would love to issue refunds but do not have the option for this as payment is taken by trainingpeaks.

Absolutely! Email support is available for guidance and motivation.

We only provide support for the duration of your plan and 2 weeks afterwards. If you would like coaching after your plan, get in touch!

Why choose Efficient Endurance

Efficient Endurance Training Plan

  • Customised to Athlete Goals - Ability-based plans & email support
  • Expert Input - Designed by a qualified, experienced coach
  • Structured Progression - Detailed progression
  • Detailed Sessions - Clear explanation of how sessions support your goal
  • Training Volume - Balanced for your level
  • Race-Specific Prep - Includes taper weeks & race guides
  • Strength Training - Targeted strength sessions*
  • Cross Training** - Cross training sessions available**
  • Tech Integration - Compatible with smartwatches
  • Support & Advice - Email support from a coach
  • Plan Guarantee - Free plan swap if needed
  • Cost - $3 per week

Free Training Plan

  • Customised to Athlete Goals - Generic & non-specific
  • Expert Input - No professional input
  • Structured Progression - Some progression
  • Detailed Sessions - No explanations
  • Training Volume - Inconsistent and limited
  • Detailed Sessions - No race-specific advice
  • Race-Specific Prep - Not included
  • Strength Training - Not Included
  • Cross Training** - Not included
  • Tech Integration - No compatibility
  • Support & Advice - No support offered
  • Plan Guarantee - No other plans
  • Cost - Free

Other Premium Training Plans

  • Customised to Athlete Goals - Limited ability variations
  • Expert Input - Created by a qualified coach
  • Structured Progression - Include generic progression
  • Detailed Sessions - No explanations
  • Training Volume - Suitable volume for athletes
  • Race-Specific Prep - Minimal race-day strategy
  • Strength Training - May have generic strength work
  • Cross Training** - Not included
  • Tech Integration - May have device compatibility
  • Support & Advice - Occasional support, sometimes outsourced
  • Plan Guarantee - Limited or no guarantee
  • Cost - $3-5 per week

AI Training Plan

  • Customised to Athlete Goals - Algorithm-based, lacks nuance
  • Expert Input - Automated, no human touch
  • Structured Progression - Only if the algorithm says so
  • Detailed Sessions - No explanations
  • Training Volume - Metrics can miscalculate workload
  • Race-Specific Prep - Lacks detailed guidance
  • Strength Training - Rarely included
  • Cross Training** - Sometimes compatible
  • Tech Integration - May have device compatibility
  • Support & Advice - No human support available
  • Plan Guarantee - No guarantees
  • Cost - $10+ per week

* Strength training included on some training plans at additional cost

** Cross training is available on some specific plans

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