Keep Your Momentum Going: The Best Running Programs to Try After a Runstreak

You did it. You showed up. You logged the miles. And now, the Still I Run May Runstreak has officially come to an end—with 965 participants, over $11,000 raised, and over 31 thousand miles covered together (yep, you read that right...31 THOUSAND MILES). That’s no small feat, and whether you ran one mile a day or mixed it up your own way, we’re so proud of the commitment you made to your mental and physical health.

But here’s the thing: just because the Runstreak is over doesn’t mean your momentum has to be.

In fact, this is where the real magic happens. When the excitement of a challenge fades, when there’s no finish line in sight, and when life gets busy again—that’s when showing up matters most. And it’s exactly why finding the right running program can help keep you moving forward with purpose.

If you find yourself wondering what comes next, we’ve got you covered. From new running programs to community support and personal reflection, we’re breaking down exactly how to ride that Runstreak high and keep doing something good for your mind and body.

Why Structure Matters Post-Runstreak

"I’ve come a long way from where I started mentally and emotionally, and for that I’m thankful." — Brenda, Still I Run Ambassador

One of the reasons the Runstreak works so well? It gives you a built-in goal every single day. You don’t have to overthink it—just lace up and go. But once the streak ends, that daily structure disappears, and it’s easy to lose momentum. That’s where having a plan in place makes a huge difference.

Whether you're a new runner just getting started or someone who's been running for a while, having structure—like personalized training plans or scheduled workouts—helps take the guesswork out of what to do next. It gives your brain something to look forward to and your body a way to stay consistent.

If you’re ready to start running again with a fresh perspective or build on the progress you made during the Runstreak, consider trying out a running program that fits your current schedule, fitness level, and goals. Some focus on running three to four times a week, others help you increase your intensity safely over time. Many even include helpful tips on cross-training, rest days, and mental health check-ins.

And if you're someone who thrives on a little variety, you're in luck—there are tons of different running programs to choose from. From couch-to-5K options to intermediate plans focused on distance or speed, you can find something that feels manageable and motivating. You might even want to create your own mix of movement and mindfulness.

Bottom line? You don’t have to keep running every single day. But having some sort of plan—no matter how simple—can help you stay grounded, supported, and mentally strong long after the Runstreak ends.

Find the Right Running Program for You

The beauty of the running world is that there’s truly something for everyone. If you’re a novice, a gentle walk/run plan might be just what you need to ease back into a rhythm without overdoing it. More seasoned runners might be ready to dive into half-marathon or even marathon training. Heck, some of you may even be eyeing an ultra marathon one day—and we fully support those big dreams!

The key is to pick a plan that works for you—your schedule, your body, and your current relationship with the sport. Some programs are four weeks long, others last 12+ weeks. Some emphasize distance, others focus on speed or endurance. And some are all about staying injury-free while enjoying the process.

There’s no shortage of great running programs out there—some free, some paid, and many tailored to different fitness levels and goals. Here are a few places to explore:

Apps with Built-In Training Plans

• Runna: A super intuitive app that builds personalized training plans for all experience levels. It’s ideal for beginning runners, as well as those training for a half marathon, marathon, or even an ultra marathon. Plus, it syncs with your wearable for real-time feedback on performance, volume, and more.

• Strava: Known for its social running features, Strava also includes training tools and goal tracking. Premium users get access to personalized coaching, but even free users can follow structured plans and set weekly goals.

• Nike Run Club: Offers free audio-guided runs and full training plans for distances from 5K to marathon. Perfect for those who want a coach in their ear and plenty of motivational tips along the way.

• Couch to 5K (C25K): A favorite among new runners. This classic 8-week plan uses walk/run intervals to help you gradually begin running while staying injury free.

  
  

Downloadable Plans

• Hal Higdon’s Plans: Widely trusted and great for all levels. His 5K, 10K, half, and marathon plans are detailed, easy to follow, and totally free.

• Jeff Galloway’s Run-Walk Method: Offers structured plans with a strong focus on avoiding injury and improving stamina gradually. Excellent for beginners or anyone easing back into the sport.

  
  

Still I Run’s Free Training Plans

We’ve got you covered, too. Still I Run offers free downloadable training plans for 5K, 10K, and half-marathon distances. These plans are built with mental health in mind—realistic, manageable, and meant to help you succeed at your own pace. No pressure. Just progress. You can find them on our website here.

Looking for Extra Support? Apply for the Mental Health Runner Program

If you’re ready for even more guidance and community, you might be the perfect fit for our new Mental Health Runner Program. This 12-week program is designed for individuals who want to use running as a tool for mental wellness but face financial or motivational barriers. Selected participants receive:

• A free pair of running shoes

• A Still I Run tech tee

• A comprehensive training plan (5K or 10K)

• Weekly encouragement and mental health resources

• A printed Mental Health Runner journal to track progress, reflect, and grow

No matter what direction you take, the most important thing is that it feels right for you. Whether it’s a structured plan from an app, a downloadable PDF, or a community-driven program, the goal is the same: to help you succeed, stay motivated, and keep running for your health—both physical and mental.

Whatever you choose, remember: this isn’t about comparing yourself to anyone else. It’s about finding the right level of structure, support, and motivation to keep showing up for yourself—one week, one run, one win at a time.

Stay Connected Through Community

One of the best parts of the Runstreak wasn’t just the running—it was the people. The encouragement, the shared milestones, the sense that we were all in it together. That connection doesn’t have to end just because May is over. In fact, staying part of a supportive running community might be the single most powerful tool to help you continue, improve, and stay motivated long-term.

Still I Run offers so many ways to plug in, whether you're looking for training advice, group accountability, or just a little boost to keep going. Local Run Chapters are a great place to meet like-minded runners, many of whom are working through the same ups and downs of mental health, motivation, and consistency. Group runs are casual, welcoming, and focused on wellness and movement—not pace or perfection.

When you show up with others, the journey gets lighter. You laugh more. You learn more. And you feel more empowered to keep going. Because at the end of the day, we’re not just running—we’re running together.

And if you need a little extra motivation? Go back and watch your own progress. Scroll through your Runstreak photos. Re-read your journal entries. Look at what you’ve already been able to achieve—and then imagine what’s next.

Reflect, Celebrate, and Set New Intentions

So often, we finish a challenge and immediately move on to the next thing. But real growth happens when we take time to reflect, celebrate progress, and become more aware of how far we’ve come.

Think back to Day 1 of the Runstreak. How did you feel then versus now? Maybe your stamina has improved. Maybe your mood has lifted. Maybe your mindset around running and mental health has shifted just a bit. That’s worth honoring.

Now’s a great time to grab a notebook (or open a notes app) and track your progress beyond the miles. How’s your energy? Your sleep? Your stress levels? If you were using a smartwatch or app during the Runstreak, check in on your performance data too—you might be surprised at how much you’ve improved without even realizing it.

This is also the perfect moment to set new goals and intentions. Maybe it’s finding a coaching plan that fits your lifestyle. Maybe it’s dialing in your nutrition to support your next goal. Or maybe you’re simply looking to maintain your current volume of activity with a little more flexibility and joy.

You don’t need to set a huge goal like a marathon. Start small and intentional. Maybe it’s committing to run two or three times a week. Or mixing in strength and recovery. Or even focusing on your mental health first and letting the rest fall into place.

No matter what you decide, the important thing is this: You’re already doing it. You’ve built something powerful over the past month—and you have everything you need to keep going.

Remember: You’re Still Running for You

The Runstreak may be over, but your why is still right there with you.

You didn’t just run for the miles. You ran for your mental health. You ran for clarity, for stability, for strength. And none of that disappears when the calendar flips to June.

There’s no medal for showing up today. No leaderboard. No finish line confetti. Just you—and that’s more than enough.

This is your reminder that you don’t need a streak, a race, or a challenge to keep going. You’re still running for you. Every time you lace up, stretch, take a breath, or choose rest, you’re taking care of your whole self. And that matters.

At Still I Run, we’ll be here cheering you on—no matter what your next step looks like.