Running coaching platform Runna (which was acquired by Strava in 2025) has relaunched its ‘New to Running’ and ‘Return to Running’ plans for the 2026 season.
The updated programmes are designed to support the nearly 50% of the app’s users who identify as new or beginner runners.
The coach-built plans have been redesigned to focus on gentle progression and flexibility to help users overcome common barriers such as motivation and fear of injury. The New to Running plan features a flexible length of 8–16 weeks, while the Return to Running plan spans 4–16 weeks.
According to the company, the New to Running programme begins with short, time-based walk–run intervals and only transitions to distance-based targets when the runner is ready. The app provides in-app guidance to help build confidence and reduce the risk of injury during this transition.
The relaunch includes several new features intended to help runners maintain consistency in 2026. This includes personalised Workout Briefings, which provide tailored guidance before and during each run. The company states that no two users receive the same briefing, as the content is adapted to the specific customer.
Runna has also introduced a ‘Not Feeling 100%’ feature, allowing users to temporarily dial back their training load due to illness, minor aches, or busy schedules. The app can adjust training intensity or remove pace targets for periods ranging from 3–14 days before guiding the runner back to their full plan.
Additional updates for the 2026 season include:
- Mileage Insights – A feature that detects how closely runners stick to their schedule and recommends sustainable adjustments to training volume.
- Plan Replay – Launching in early February 2026, this interactive recap celebrates the completion of a training plan.
Founded in 2021 by Dom Maskell and Ben Parker, Runna provides personalised training plans for distances ranging from 5km to marathons. The London-based company was a finalist for Apple’s App of the Year in 2024 and was acquired by US-based fitness platform Strava in April 2025.
Runna is currently available in over 180 countries and integrates with wearable devices from Garmin, Apple Watch, COROS, and Suunto.
