If you’ve been running consistently, maybe racing once or twice a year, and wondering whether AI training is ‘good enough,’ you’re not alone. AI Running Plans have exploded in popularity lately, but are they really going to improve your running? There are a lot of things that AI training gets right, but a few key things it can miss. As certified running coaches, we’re here to give you the pros and the cons of an AI running program.

What You’re Really Getting From AI Training Apps

AI Running Apps typically offer training plans for different race distances. There are a lot of popular AI training programs out there now, including Runna, Garmin Coaching, Coros Training Plans, and even ChatGPT can write you a plan. The programs take input from you (either using your GPS watch data, or having you provide information), then they generate a training plan based on your upcoming race.

Where AI Training Plans Shine

There are definitely some benefits to using an AI generated training plan. They are usually inexpensive, with either a small monthly fee, included with your GPS watch software, or even free. They are also good at nailing the basics. Long runs, speed work, threshold and aerobic runs are included in most AI Running Plans. They also offer good structure and consistency, which is helpful for runners who weren’t following a plan before. And they’re extremely convenient.  You can get set up with a training plan within a few minutes.

Where AI Training Falls Short

Since it’s an AI generated plan, there isn’t a lot of personal nuance involved. A lot of the plans are going to be a “cookie cutter” template that is only adjusted a little with the data you input. Following a template might work, but you could be leaving some fitness on the table.

They also aren’t very good at adjusting for setbacks during a plan. Sometimes life happens. You could miss a run due to:

• Recent illness or minor injury
• Cumulative work or family stress
• Sleep, travel, or recovery issues
• Individual response to a workout

If you have to miss some runs, the AI plans don’t adjust well. You either have to restart a new plan, or just jump right back in where you left off (which your body may not be ready for).

The Plateau Problem AI Training Can’t Solve

Do you ever struggle feeling fit enough, but you’re stuck at the same race times? These plateaus often aren’t about motivation, they’re about training emphasis and recovery balance. The AI plans are great at nailing the basics, but they won’t troubleshoot a fitness weakness. Maybe you are great at running intervals, but fall apart during tempo runs. The AI training won’t have a plan to help you bring up your threshold fitness. They will either drop your entire fitness level down, or keep you struggling through workouts that are too hard.

Garbage In, Garbage Out: Why Your Data Matters

While the AI Training Plans can be good, they are only as good as the data you give to it. Be honest when inputting your current fitness level and race goals. We’ve seen some programs that are too cautious and leave you undertrained for race day, or the opposite where the programs are too aggressive and leave you burnt out or injured before your race. For example, setting an aggressive goal pace that doesn’t match your recent training can cause the plan to overload you early.

When AI Training Makes Sense

Even with some cons, AI Running Plans can still be a good fit for a lot of runners. If you struggle with consistency, having a good basic plan can keep you accountable. If you are a beginner and just need a basic plan to get you to your goal race, AI training can be a great place to start. AI works best when your training is predictable. Coaching works best when life isn’t.

When Personalized Coaching Makes the Difference

If you’re consistently healthy, improving, and just want structure—AI may be enough. If you’re stuck, frustrated, or unsure why training isn’t clicking, that’s where coaching shines. Personalized training plans and coaching can effectively evaluate your training and help you reach your next breakthrough.

At Fast Pack Running, our personalized training plans are an accessible way to get a custom plan (no templates) built for you based on your fitness level, goals, and YOUR lifestyle. Plus monthly communication if any questions or adjustments are needed.

Our one-on-one coaching takes it even further, with communication and evaluation through every step of your training. Your plan is adjusted as often as needed to accommodate any changes to training, setbacks, or just life getting in the way. This gives you smarter adjustments, better consistency, and fewer setbacks. It’s the best way to help you reach YOUR running goals.

Learn more about our training plans and coaching:

The right plan isn’t just smart. It’s personal.

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