Twin Cities Marathon & 10 Mile Training Plans

The Twin Cities Marathon is known as “The Most Beautiful Urban Marathon in America,” and the course lives up to the hype. October in the Twin Cities is one of the most pleasant months for weather, and the beautiful course and energetic crowds make this event spectacular. When you choose to train with CTP, we provide you with a customized training schedule for your 5K, 10K, 10-mile, or marathon.

The 5K and 10K kick off the weekend’s festivities. Aside from a short elevation at the very beginning, both courses are relatively flat and start and end near the Minnesota State Capitol in St. Paul following an out-and-back course on Summit Avenue. These distances are popular for both first-time runners and marathoners wishing to warm up their legs before the big dance the next day.

On Sunday, the marathon and 10-mile races are run. Both courses begin near U.S. Bank Stadium in downtown Minneapolis. The Twin Cities 10-Mile is also called “The Shortcut to the Capitol” and makes a beeline for the finish line in St. Paul via East River Road. The marathon course leaves downtown and winds around Lake of the Isles, Bde Maka Ska, Lake Harriet, and Lake Nokomis before heading north along the Mississippi River. The course follows the river for several miles before crossing into St. Paul, where runners will face the course’s biggest hill. This climb continues for almost three miles and makes the Twin Cities Marathon one of the more challenging finishes among American marathons.

Often dubbed “The Most Beautiful Urban Marathon in America,” the marathon is a flagship running event that takes place in the heart of Minnesota, showcasing the scenic beauty of Minneapolis and St. Paul. Here’s a brief dive into its history:

Inception and Growth: The Twin Cities Marathon (TCM) was first held in 1982. From its outset, it was envisioned as more than just a race – it was a celebration of the Twin Cities’ spirit, community, and natural beauty. The event saw a robust turnout from its early days, with its reputation quickly growing both regionally and nationally.

Cultural and Economic Impact: The Twin Cities Marathon has become a significant cultural event in the region, drawing thousands of participants and spectators every year. Its economic impact is palpable, with local businesses, especially hotels, restaurants, and retailers, benefiting from the influx of visitors.

Challenges and Triumphs: Like many marathons worldwide, the Twin Cities Marathon has faced challenges, including inclement weather and the logistical hurdles presented by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the resilience and commitment of organizers, volunteers, and the running community have ensured its continued success and reputation as a premier marathon event.

Modern Significance: Today, the Twin Cities Marathon stands as a testament to the vibrant running culture of Minnesota. Its blend of competitive racing, community engagement, and the sheer beauty of the course continues to attract a diverse group of runners, from elite athletes eyeing a fast time to first-timers looking to accomplish a significant personal goal.

The Twin Cities Marathon’s rich history, deeply interwoven with the cultural and athletic tapestry of Minneapolis and St. Paul, makes it a must-run event for many. As its legacy continues to grow, so does the quest for perfect marathon training plans to ensure every runner can make the most of their Twin Cities Marathon experience.

Whether you’re shooting to BQ or simply to make it to the finish line ahead of the sweeper bus, Custom Training Plans can help you get ready for one of the biggest running events in Minnesota. When you train with CTP, you can choose from Twin Cities Marathon training plans, Twin Cities 10-Mile training plans, Twin Cities 10K training plans, and Twin Cities 5K training plans that are designed to suit your experience level and the course-specific features that you should prepare for. Our training plans go beyond just mileage – we include intervals, hill repeats, and other drills to keep your running workouts fresh. We also include guidance on cross-training and mobility exercises to give you a well-rounded approach to your race prep. You can show up at the Twin Cities Marathon fully prepared with help from Custom Training Plans.