Train for Your Next Marathon with Minnesota Distance Running Association
If you’re running a late spring or early summer marathon, it’s time to start thinking about marathon training plans. There are hundreds of training plans available in training books and online, but few offer the benefits and advantages of the Minnesota Distance Running Association Marathon Training Program.
Related: Start Thinking About Spring Marathon Training
About Minnesota Distance Running Association
The Minnesota Distance Running Association (MDRA) connects the Minnesota running community and supports runners of all ages and abilities through education, programs, and advocacy. Whether you run socially, recreationally, or competitively, MDRA can help you achieve your running goals. Learn more about MDRA here.
MDRA Full and Half Marathon Training Program
There are dozens of benefits to signing up for an MDRA marathon training program from personalized coaching, to reliable group runs and training partners, to educational opportunities and running support. Whether you’re a current member or not, MDRA offers a variety of marathon training plans for all levels and abilities.
Coaching & Training
Experienced, certified coaches collaborate to create 15-week training plans with four distinct training groups so you can train at the right level for your fitness and lifestyle.
There was a wide variety of people running different paces, training for different length races, and everyone is so wonderful,” past participant Aimee Johnson said.
MDRA is the official Twin Cities training group for grandmas Grandma’s Marathon! Those training for the Garry Bjorklund half are guaranteed entry to the sold out race and full marathon participants are included in the Grandma’s Running Club Experience which includes a registration discount, special access to a start-of-race tent, a finish line meeting area, and perks for family and friends.
MDRA recommends that marathon runners have a base of at least 20-25 miles a week before entering the class, but offer training plans for all paces, abilities, and goals.
The benefits were really in the coaching,” said Johnson, who ran her first marathon with the MDRA marathon training program last year. “Coaches Sarah and Gloria sent emails twice a week packed with training and recovery information. I really learned a lot.”
Supported Group Runs
Another great benefit of the training program are the two supported training runs per week which meet at a variety of locations across the Minneapolis/St. Paul area. Group runs take place Saturday mornings and Tuesday evenings and primarily focus on locations around the chain of lakes and river road. Plus, hydration stops equipped with water and Powerade support weekly group runs – a life saver when water fountains are turned off for the winter and great race day fueling practice.
The program provided a well-structured training plan for achieving your marathon goal. But more importantly, it introduced me to a group of runners who have become my close friends and with whom I look forward to running every week,” past participant Omar Awad said.
Related: Our Favorite Spring Running Routes
Educational & Fun
Educational opportunities with guest speakers and coaches cover training topics such as injury prevention, mental preparation, nutrition and different training methods and philosophies. Of course, the most obvious benefit of the training program is that it will make marathon training fun! (Psst…don’t forget about the SWAG! Program participants receive an MDRA tech tank, visor, or hat.)
I would absolutely recommend the MDRA Marathon training program to a friend,” Awad said. “I am often surprised at how quickly the miles go by when running with the group – everyone benefits!”
Related: 5 Benefits of Running with a Group
Get Training with MDRA!
Start training for your next marathon with MDRA! Current members can register for the 15-week marathon training plan for $125 and non-members can register for $150 (includes a 1-year MDRA membership). Program fees do not include race registration.
