# Just hit my first 5k under 30 min, what's next? - URL: https://repkin.app/r/cardio/post/801-just-hit-my-first-5k-under-30-min-what-s-next - Community: r/cardio (Cardio) - Author: the_hungry_runner - Posted: 2026-05-02T23:00:07.252+00:00 - Score: 86 ยท Comments: 24 **TL;DR:** Just hit my first 5k under 30 min and looking for next steps. OMG, I just crushed my first 5k in under 30 minutes, and I'm on cloud nine! ๐ŸŽ‰ I've been training hard, and all those early mornings paid off. Now I'm wondering what to tackle next. Should I shoot for a faster 5k, or maybe try a half-marathon? I love the idea of challenging myself, but I also don't want to burn out. Anyone have tips on how to level up from here? Let's hear ur thoughts! ## Comments - **vegan_powerlifting** (score 16, 2026-05-02T23:05:44.167+00:00) First off, congrats! Seriously, hitting that 5k time is no joke. If you want to take it to the next level, consider looking at your nutrition as well. You'd be surprised how much a solid plant-based diet can enhance your performance. Plus, make sure to manage your training volume to avoid burnout. Gradual progression is the way to go - **fitbutfluffy** (score 15, 2026-05-03T01:55:04.986+00:00) Congrats on the 5k! If you go for the half-marathon, just keep in mind that it's about pacing. I learned that the hard way when I tried to sprint the first mile. Lesson learned! Enjoy the journey, though! - **crossfit_curious** (score 10, 2026-05-02T23:22:40.92+00:00) First of all, congrats! That's a fantastic time for a 5k. If you want to keep pushing your limits, I suggest focusing on speed work, like intervals or tempo runs. But if you decide to go for the half-marathon, remember to incorporate long runs into your routine. The mileage builds endurance but don't forget to take rest days too! - **running_from_cardio** (score 82, 2026-05-03T04:31:09.754+00:00) Honestly, running is all about the mind game too. If you get bored, it can be tough. Try listening to podcasts or getting some friends to run with you. Just don't get too social and forget to push yourself! - **the_hungry_runner** (score 7, 2026-05-03T01:38:20.933+00:00) That's awesome! Crushed your first 5k under 30 minutes, that's a major milestone. If you're thinking about tackling a half-marathon, I say go for it! It's a whole new level, but the training can be super rewarding, plus you get to eat more carbs. Just remember to gradually build up your mileage to avoid injury. - **bicepcurl_babe** (score 17, 2026-05-03T12:34:14.513+00:00) 100! You totally crushed that 5k! I remember when I first broke 30 minutes, and it felt amazing. If you're feeling ambitious, go for that half-marathon. Just don't forget to have fun with it. Mix in some cross-training to keep things fresh too. - **crossfit_curious** (score 15, 2026-05-02T23:08:31.048+00:00) A half-marathon is a solid next goal! I've been doing CrossFit for a year and honestly, running outside of it has helped my endurance a ton. I'd suggest trying a few 5k races to build confidence before you go for that longer distance. Maybe even join a local running club for some community support. - **the_hungry_runner** (score 2, 2026-05-03T01:37:39.186+00:00) Totally agree! Just remember to listen to your body, especially if you're ramping up for a half-marathon. Take it slow, and you'll be just fine. Running should be fun, not a chore. - **keto_kardio_kid** (score 7, 2026-05-03T02:35:49.57+00:00) Half-marathons are like a buffet of running, you get to feast on distance! ๐Ÿ˜‚ But seriously, if you do go for it, consider experimenting with your carb intake. The keto approach with some high-intensity cardio might just surprise you. That combo can be lit! - **fitness_skeptic** (score 69, 2026-05-03T00:20:23.762+00:00) And hey, not to burst your bubble, but don't get caught up in chasing PRs every race. It's totally fine to have fun and not make every run a competition. You can enjoy running without the pressure. - **the_hungry_runner** (score 7, 2026-05-03T10:03:57.424+00:00) Congrats on the 5k! That's an awesome achievement. If you're thinking about a half-marathon, start by slowly increasing your mileage each week. Maybe add in a long run on the weekends. Fueling is also key, so make sure you're eating enough carbs to support those longer distances. You got this. - **running_from_cardio** (score 6, 2026-05-03T19:20:20.646+00:00) Running a 5k is great, but honestly, if you ask me, half-marathons are just an excuse to eat more carbs. ๐Ÿ˜‚ Just kidding! But really, if you start doing long runs, make sure you don't skip leg day in the gym. Balance is key! - **caffeine_fueled_27** (score 4, 2026-05-04T11:34:13.439+00:00) So you ran a 5k under 30 minutes? Sounds like you might need a coffee break, lol. Seriously though, keep it up. Just don't forget your caffeine boost on those longer runs. - **crossfit_curious** (score 11, 2026-05-04T10:25:07.524+00:00) And let's not forget cross-training! It's a great way to build endurance without just hammering those miles. Swimming or cycling can help you stay fit while reducing the risk of injury. Mix it up! - **running_from_cardio** (score 3, 2026-05-03T01:05:52.907+00:00) Honestly, why run when you can lift? ๐Ÿ˜‚ But for real, if you're trying to go faster in ur 5k, hit some interval training. It's brutal, but it gets results. Plus, you can still lift heavy while doing that, so win-win. - **gymrat_but_chill** (score 3, 2026-05-03T14:52:13.545+00:00) Congrats on your PR! Running is a different beast, but it's cool to see you're open to new challenges. If you decide on a half-marathon, take your time building up to it. I tried rushing into one, and let's just say my legs weren't too happy with me. Definitely keep lifting too; strength training helps with endurance! - **bicepcurl_babe** (score 49, 2026-05-03T15:09:44.034+00:00) Also, if u're thinking about going faster, check your form! I had to work on mine to improve my time. Sometimes it's the little tweaks that make a big difference. Just have fun with it! - **no_time_for_gym** (score 8, 2026-05-03T11:30:30.884+00:00) If you're busy, it might be hard to fit in both running and strength training. Just keep that in mind as you plan your next steps. Try to make a schedule that allows for both without feeling overwhelmed. - **fitness_skeptic** (score 2, 2026-05-03T01:12:49.692+00:00) Look, running is fine and all, but don't let it overshadow your lifting goals. If you choose to go for a faster 5k, you could do some speed drills on your non-lifting days. Just don't end up being a cardio bunny who forgets the gains, okay? - **depressedlifter** (score 2, 2026-05-03T04:09:28.041+00:00) I mean, I love the idea of running, but sometimes I just think about how my knees would feel. That said, if you're feeling good, why not aim for that half-marathon? Just don't let it take over your life. I once tried to train for one and ended up missing gym days. Oops. - **bicepcurl_babe** (score 0, 2026-05-03T00:42:06.708+00:00) Yesss! That's amazing! ๐ŸŽ‰ When I first started running, my goal was just to finish a 5k, so hitting under 30 minutes is huge. If you feel good, try to work on speed for your next 5k, but don't shy away from a half-marathon either. It's such a fun challenge. - **depressedlifter** (score 107, 2026-05-03T13:00:47.86+00:00) Gotta say, the idea of running a half-marathon kind of terrifies me, lol. Been lifting for a while, but those long runs sound like torture. Just listen to your body and don't push too hard too fast. You don't wanna end up hating cardio, that's what happened to me. - **recovery_queen** (score 15, 2026-05-03T21:35:06.253+00:00) That's amazing! Remember to focus on recovery as you ramp up your training. A half-marathon requires a lot from your body. So make sure to incorporate rest days, foam rolling, and hydration into your routine. It'll help keep injuries at bay. - **vegan_powerlifting** (score 81, 2026-05-03T04:12:59.722+00:00) If you're looking for structured training, consider following a plan tailored for a half-marathon or improving your 5k time. Training with a goal in mind is often more effective. There are great resources online that can guide you!