Memphis Marathon Training Plans

The 5K and 10K races are first on deck, and all runners start together. Runners preparing for these races can get additional support by following a Memphis 5K training plan or a Memphis 10K training plan. These shorter races are a great way to get involved in the Memphis Marathon weekend, and the supportive crowd makes it especially friendly for novice runners who are newer to the racing scene. Both the 5K and 10K courses start and finish outside of AutoZone Park, and both distances feature a detour through the campus of St. Jude’s. Those who are participating in the 10K race enjoy an additional loop that heads south, passing Tom Lee Park on the banks of the Mississippi River before heading back to the stadium.

An hour after the 5K and 10K begin, the half marathon and marathon runners depart downtown Memphis. The route weaves all around downtown, and racers will visit the banks of the Mississippi River and the historic 19th-century mansions in the Victorian Village neighborhood during the first few miles of the race. Though the race is filled with notable landmarks, most race veterans say that the highlight of the route is passing through the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital campus, where patients and their parents wait to cheer runners on.

Just after mile 11, the half marathon route circles back through downtown to head to the finish line. The marathon course continues on and heads east to Overton Park, where runners will pass the Memphis Zoo as they tour the park’s paths. Once runners exit the park, they’ll skirt the park’s borders before looping back on North Parkway. Right before reaching mile 25, the pack will pass St. Jude’s once more before arriving at the finish line.

Though the 5K and 10K present minimal elevation changes, the half marathon and full marathon courses feature rolling hills throughout the entire course. At Custom Training Plans, our customized programs help you build the type of strength that will support you throughout all of the race’s ups and downs. You’ll take part in running workouts that include hill repeats, sprints, and interval training along with cross-training sessions that are designed to support your cardiovascular strength and endurance. Whether you’re looking for a Memphis Marathon training plan, a Memphis Half Marathon training plan, a Memphis 10K training plan, or a Memphis 5K training plan, trust Custom Training Plans to get you to the start line feeling confident in your preparation.