ActiveCLI Tool
VTrain - Marathon Training Plan Generator
A Go-based CLI tool that generates personalized training plans for 10K, half-marathon, and marathon races using Jack Daniels' VDOT methodology
July 2025
Technologies Used
GoCLITraining MethodologyVDOT

VTrain - Marathon Training Plan Generator
A powerful command-line utility that generates personalized training plans for 10K, half-marathon, and marathon races following Jack Daniels' renowned VDOT methodology.
🏃♂️ Personal Success Story
Using this methodology, I achieved remarkable improvements in my marathon times:
- 2019 Athens Marathon: 2h46m
- 2022 Valencia Marathon: 2h36m (10-minute improvement)
- 2023 Valencia Marathon: 2h28m (18-minute total improvement)
✨ Features
- Multiple Race Distances: Supports 10K, half-marathon (21K), and full marathon (42K)
- VDOT Methodology: Based on Jack Daniels' scientifically-proven training system
- Personalized Plans: Generates 3-month training schedules tailored to your goal time
- Cross-Platform: Available for Linux, macOS, and Windows
- Easy to Use: Simple CLI interface with clear examples
🚀 Quick Start
Installation
- Download the appropriate binary for your operating system
- Extract and place in your PATH
- For Linux/macOS:
chmod +x vtrain - For macOS: Grant permissions in System Settings → Privacy & Security
Usage Examples
Half-Marathon Training Plan:
vtrain plan --distancia 21 --fechaCarrera 2024-01-28 --tiempoObjetivo 01:35:00
Marathon Training Plan:
vtrain plan --distancia 42 --fechaCarrera 2024-01-21 --tiempoObjetivo 02:28:00
🛠️ Technical Implementation
- Language: Go for performance and cross-platform compatibility
- Architecture: Clean CLI structure with modular packages
- Algorithm: Implements Jack Daniels' VDOT calculations and training zones
- Output: Structured training plans with weekly progressions
📚 Jack Daniels' VDOT Method
The VDOT (V̇O2max) system is a comprehensive training approach that:
- Calculates training paces based on current fitness level
- Provides structured workout types (Easy, Tempo, Interval, Repetition)
- Ensures proper progression and recovery
- Maximizes training efficiency while minimizing injury risk
🎯 Key Benefits
- Scientifically Proven: Based on decades of research and coaching experience
- Personalized: Adapts to your current fitness level and race goals
- Progressive: Builds fitness systematically over 12 weeks
- Practical: Provides exact paces and workout descriptions
- Flexible: Works for runners of all ability levels
📈 Training Zones
The tool generates plans with five distinct training zones:
- Easy (E): Base building and recovery
- Marathon (M): Race-specific pace training
- Threshold (T): Lactate threshold improvement
- Interval (I): VO2max development
- Repetition (R): Neuromuscular power and speed
🏆 Results
This methodology has helped me achieve:
- Consistent race performance improvements
- Injury-free training cycles
- Better understanding of pacing strategies
- Confidence in race execution
Perfect for runners serious about improving their endurance racing performance through structured, science-based training.