top of page
Writer's pictureMary-Katherine Fleming

Tucson Marathon Course Report


The Downhill Tucson Marathon Course is Brutal.

Tucson Marathon: Pretty but BRUTAL


Let’s go back to Algebra 1 and discuss slope.  Expressed as a percentage, slope is used in lay terms to describe a hill’s steepness.  It is calculated as “rise over run”, then you move the decimal point to the right two spaces to get a %.  To understand what that number means, think about the incline button on a treadmill.  Most treadmills will go up to 15%, some will offer negative slope but rarely more than -3%.


Why am I telling you this?  Because you need this information to train for this race.  In the first mile alone, you lose 500 ft.  That’s a slope of -9.5%.  Miles 2-8, you will lose 1000ft, that’s a slope of -3.2%.  That is steep, yo.  This section alone can trash your quads, and we still have 16.2 downhill miles to go.  You lose a total of 2200 ft in elevation over the course of 26.2 miles, with 3 incline sections that will feel like mountains. 


Make no mistake, this is a downhill marathon and you MUST prepare accordingly.  Lots of uphill and downhill running, stability work on a bosu ball for your quads, uphill sprints, uphill and downhill tempos, etc.  If you do not have access to at least 1 hill with 1000 ft elevation loss over 1 or 2 miles, you probably need to give this one a miss. 


This point-to-point course is beautiful, well-organized and supported, and should be on every runner’s list.  I highly recommend it.  I also highly recommend preparing specifically for it.  The casual runner who shows up expecting a fast race because ‘downhills, yo!’ is cruisin’ for a bruisin’. 


Section 1 (Miles 1-8): -9% slope, then -3.2% slope

May God have mercy on your soul.  This is really steep.  You will need Glutes of Glory for months to prep.  Keep that cage LOCKED, form is paramount.  

Section 2 (Miles 9-13): negligible; 100ft rise over roughly 5miles.

This is going to hurt.  100 ft rise isn’t very steep, but that’s not your problem.  You fatigued one muscular system with those steep downhills, and your quads will quake like a baby giraffe learning to walk as they attempt to stabilize you going uphill again.  This is going to feel like the biggest hill in the world.

Section 3 (Miles 13-20): -2% slope

You’re going downhill again.  It’s not as steep as the first section.  Yay!  And you don’t have to do burpees anywhere.  Double yay!  I honestly don’t know what to tell you other than focus on the views, they are spectacular.  Don’t stop too long for photos though, each time you stop it will be harder to get started again.

Section 4 (Miles 21-finish): -1% slope to mile 24, then an uphill bump that is going to make you cry, then -2.3% slope to the finish



MK Fleming is the founder of Fitness Protection, LLC where she trains runners for $29 per month and gives marathon plans away for free. Click here to download her most popular Marathon plan, Tenacious AF, free!

493 views23 comments

Recent Posts

See All

23 Comments


best airline to travel to spain from colorado, finding the ideal airline is crucial for a comfortable and efficient experience. From premium cabins to budget-friendly choices, we’ll review the best airlines that offer service between Colorado and Spain, so you can choose the perfect one for your needs.

Like

Naved
Naved
19 hours ago

Amtrak Refund Policy allows passengers to request refunds based on ticket type and timing. Fully refundable fares are eligible for refunds before departure, while Saver fares require cancellation within 24 hours of booking. Non-refundable fares may qualify for eVouchers. Cancellation fees may apply, depending on Amtrak Refund Policy terms and conditions.

Like

jimmy marg
jimmy marg
20 hours ago

The Frontier JFK Terminal, primarily located in Terminal 4 at Los Angeles International Airport, serves as a hub for domestic and some international flights, with additional gates in the adjacent John F. Kennedy International Airport for international connections. This modern terminal offers a range of amenities, including comfortable seating, diverse dining options from casual to upscale, and retail outlets featuring essentials and luxury brands. Streamlined check-in counters, efficient TSA security checkpoints, and access to the Frontier Club lounges for eligible travelers enhance the travel experience. The terminal’s direct connection to JFK also makes international and domestic transfers easy and convenient

Like

Airline Terminals
Airline Terminals
21 hours ago

Norwegian Air operates from London Gatwick (LGW) Terminal, offering convenient and efficient services for passengers. The terminal features a variety of amenities, including restaurants, duty-free shopping, and comfortable seating areas. Norwegian Air passengers can enjoy seamless check-in and security processes, with easy access to both domestic and international flights. Norwegian Air LGW Terminal is known for its affordable fares and modern fleet, ensuring a pleasant travel experience. Whether flying for business or leisure, Norwegian Air at LGW provides excellent service and convenience.

Like

Oliver
Oliver
a day ago

Frontier Airlines Charlotte Office In Carolina

Frontier Airlines operates a key office in Charlotte, North Carolina, serving as a vital hub for customer support and regional operations. Located near Charlotte Douglas International Airport, the office assists travelers with flight bookings, ticketing, baggage inquiries, and general customer service. Frontier is known for its budget-friendly fares and efficient service, making its Charlotte office a crucial contact point for passengers seeking affordable travel options and resolving travel-related concerns promptly.

Like
bottom of page