Covenant Health Knoxville Marathon: Winter training tips
January 26, 2022

Cold weather can make it difficult to stay motivated during the winter, but the Covenant Health Knoxville Marathon is only two months away. Race director Jason Altman is with us to share training tips to help you get in shape in time for the March marathon and races.

Jason, what are your top five training tips for the winter?

First, wear the right clothing. Your body heats up during exercise, so dress like it is 20 degrees warmer. Moisture-wicking material also is key to keeping your body temperature in check.

Second, stay safe. The sun sets fairly early, which means you could be running in the dark. Wear reflective gear, only put in one earbud, and bring a buddy if possible.

Don’t overdo it! Alternate running and walking if you need to. Don’t increase your mileage more than 10% week-to-week.

Drink up! In the winter, folks tend to not drink enough water because they don’t sweat like they do in the summer.

Lastly, go on a group run. The Knoxville Track Club leads training runs from Eddie’s Health Shoppe at 8025 Kingston Pike each Saturday at 8 a.m. The runs are free and open to all. See the full schedule at knoxvillemarathon.com/training.

Thank you! Tell us about the upcoming Covenant Health Knoxville Marathon and the events you have planned up until the race.

Each year, the Covenant Health Knoxville Marathon kicks off with the Covenant Kids Run at Zoo Knoxville. That race will be on February 5 and is an opportunity for children across East Tennessee to start the Fittest School Challenge together. Plus, participants get to explore the zoo for the day with an adult.

The Covenant Health Knoxville Marathon weekend, which includes the marathon, half marathon, 2- and 4-person relays, 5K and final mile of the Covenant Kids Run, will be March 26 and 27 at World’s Fair Park.

How can viewers learn more about the races and sign up to run?

Visit knoxvillemarathon.com to view race information and register. Prices increase February 15, so act fast to get the lowest rate!

1. Dress for 20 degrees warmer
2. Stay safe in the dark
3. Pace yourself
4. Hydrate
5. Run with a group