4.9
62.5K reviews
Government
1M+
Downloads
Content rating
PEGI 3
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About this app

Start on your Couch to 5K running journey with the NHS Official App, in Partnership with the BBC.

Transform your health with the NHS Couch to 5K app, the trusted companion for beginners seeking to kickstart their running journey. Whether you aspire to shed pounds, boost your energy levels, or simply enhance your well-being, this app empowers you every step of the way.

Join millions who have successfully started their running and fitness journey with the renowned Couch to 5K plan. Be guided by expert and celebrity trainers, including renowned comedians, presenters, and Olympic icons, you'll receive tailored motivation and support throughout your run beyond to support your progress.

Key Features:

* Flexible Program: Adapt the plan to your pace, completing it in as little as 9 weeks or at a leisurely pace.
* Countdown Timer: Monitor your progress with a visual and audible timer, empowering you to stay on track.
* Music Integration: Seamlessly blend your preferred music with the app's instructions, ensuring a motivating and enjoyable experience.
* Motivational Cues: Receive timely encouragement and guidance to keep you inspired and focused.
* Progress Tracking: Track your achievements and celebrate milestones as you progress through the runs.
* Community Support: Connect with fellow runners through online forums and in-person Buddy Runs.
* Enhanced Graduation: Celebrate your success with a rewarding graduation experience and access to exclusive Beyond Couch to 5K features.

Start your Couch to 5K journey today with the NHS's official app in Partnership with the BBC. It's the perfect solution for those looking for a new challenge and seeking a supportive and effective way to improve their physical and mental health and wellbeing. Download now and embark on the path to a healthier, more active you!

You've got this!
Updated on
May 2, 2025

Data safety

Safety starts with understanding how developers collect and share your data. Data privacy and security practices may vary based on your use, region, and age. The developer provided this information and may update it over time.
No data shared with third parties
Learn more about how developers declare sharing
This app may collect these data types
Personal info, App activity, and App info and performance
Data is encrypted in transit
Data can’t be deleted

Ratings and reviews

4.9
62.3K reviews
Mark McDonald
March 24, 2025
Great app. One request would be to have somewhere in the app a table with text description of the runs across each week, not seen an option to see what each run involves ahead of time. Updated: Thanks. The PDF contains a mistake on week 4, which contains 2x3 minute runs and 2x5 minute runs for a total run time of 16 minutes. I'm not sure about other weeks yet.
1 person found this review helpful
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Department of Health and Social Care (Digital)
March 24, 2025
Thanks for the review, Mark. You can find a downloadable PDF document online listing out all the runs in the programme by searching 'Couch to 5K Better Health' and finding the Couch to 5K page on the Better Health website.
Ravi Amruth (Rav)
May 4, 2025
I've done C25K a few times in the past, but this is my first time using the NHS /BBC app. The basic functionality works well (run / walk callouts), and the little progressions over the course of the programme are very helpful. Sadly, not all features seem to work - an attempted 'buddy run' led to only one of us having any run / walk instructions as opposed to both of us.
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Department of Health and Social Care (Digital)
May 6, 2025
Hi Ravi, thanks for the review. Sorry to hear that you've been experiencing issues with the buddy run feature. Please could you send a message to digitalproducts@dhsc.gov.uk so that we can look further into the issue.
Trisha Shannon
May 5, 2025
I love the app. I am over 60 and I started as a total non-runner. Even when I was young, I would walk for miles, dance for hours, cycle every day, but I was never ever a runner. I completed the programme and I have been doing the "Beyond" runs for quite a while now, and suddenly I have a problem. The half-time bell goes off at about 10 minutes. Please let me know if I can upgrade the app on my phone without losing my history please?
1 person found this review helpful
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What’s new

This update introduces several improvements:

We've fine-tuned the app to make it more accessible and following audit of the program against WCAG 2.2 guidelines.

Launching extra support for Week 5, Run 3: We’ve listened to you by integrating more guidance and testimonials from fellow runners who’ve been there.

Resolved inconsistencies around the half-time bell so it now plays exactly when you need and expect it.

General maintenance and UI improvements to help keep everything running smoothly.