A 10K—the equivalent of 6.2 miles—is a popular race length for intermediate-level runners as well as beginners who want to challenge themselves and more experienced runners who want to take part in a faster-paced race than a typical marathon. No matter which group you fall into, the key to success—and less stress—is having a good 10k training plan.

Here is how you can take the stress out of training for a 10k so you can enjoy the entire experience.

Give Yourself Plenty of Time

The worst thing you can do when training for a 10k is not give yourself enough time to prepare. It typically takes people eight to 10 weeks to properly train for a race of this length depending on their starting fitness level. To ensure you have enough time to train, pick a race date that is at least 10 weeks in the future. To be safe, you may want to choose one that is three months or more in the future to account for any injuries or other unforeseen circumstances.

Know Your Goals

If you have clear goals in mind, you can create a 10k training plan that helps you hit small milestones on the way to your goal instead of stressing about the entire race and whether or not you’ll be prepared. For example, if your goal is to run the race in under an hour (an average time for an adult to run a 10k), you can set mini goals throughout your training period to incrementally take time off your runs. If, however, your goal is just to participate with no real time in mind, your plan can be more laid back and focus more on staying free of injuries and enjoying the process.

Schedule Your Runs

You can’t expect to carve time out of each day to go on your runs without planning in advance. At the beginning of your training plan, decide when you’ll go on easier, shorter runs of 30 minutes or less and when to go on extended runs to boost your endurance. For example, you may decide to do easier runs in the morning for work and plan one or two extended runs on the weekend.

Have a Recovery Plan

If you train too hard without plans for rest and recovery, you risk injury and stressing your system. Make sure to build in rest days as well as rejuvenating activities like yoga, Pilates, and walking to maintain flexibility and give yourself a break.

Considering Joining a Runner’s Club

Training for a 10k is easier and less stressful if you have the right help. Consider joining an online runner’s club that offers coaching, nutrition advice, and 10k training plans tailored to your unique goals and fitness level. Not only will you have a place to go with questions, but you’ll also get valuable support from experts and other runners on the same journey as you.

The Right 10k Training Plan for You

Ready to take on your next running challenge with a 10k? Make sure you have a plan in place to reach your goals and consider joining an online runner’s club to increase your chances of success.