YMCA of Middle TN

Got dreams of 26.2 or 13.1 miles dancing in your head? The Y can help you get the training you need to cross the finish line at the Country Music Marathon and Half-Marathon, or any other races you may be eyeing next year. Our training groups are also a fantastic way to get connected to other runners near you.

The following YMCA centers are offering running and/or marathon training groups this winter and spring. You can also check with your local center to find out about additional resources they may offer runners.

Brentwood

Running club: The Brentwood Family YMCA offers a running group that meets every Tuesday and Thursday at 9 a.m. The group is for runners of all ability levels, but has sessions for beginners that start every three months. For more information, contact Doug Webb.

Downtown

Half Marathon Training Program: The Downtown YMCA will hold a 12-week half-marathon training program led by nationally certified YMCA personal trainers Shelby Tant and Lauren Farina. Both Shelby and Lauren have completed half-marathons and have the knowledge and expertise to keep you motivated and help you cross the finish line. The program includes sessions on strength training, stretching, and nutrition. Each participant will also be provided with a training schedule and the group will meet on alternating Saturdays or Sundays to do a planned run together.

The training program starts Jan. 31 and will cost $240 per person. A minimum of four participants is required. For more information, contact Johnna Davis by e-mail or by calling (615) 254-0631.

Green Hills

Marathon Training Group: The Green Hills Family YMCA has a Country Music Marathon personal training group that will meet through race day on April 25. The training is open to all ability levels, and costs $150 per month for YMCA facility members, $200 for program members. For more information, contact Michelle Dengler by e-mail or by calling (615) 565-6266.

Margaret Maddox Family YMCA (East Nashville)

Marathon Training Group: Train for the Country Music Marathon or Half-Marathon. Training begins Jan. 6 and ends April 25. Group will meet Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6 a.m. and Saturdays at 7:30 a.m.; includes both group runs and strength training sessions. Cost is $115 per month. For more information, contact Sam Stephens.

Maryland Farms

Beginning Runners Group: The Maryland Farms YMCA has a beginners running group that meets Tuesdays and Thursdays at 8:15 a.m. Upcoming group meeting days and times are regularly posted on the Maryland Farms group fitness schedule.

Marathon Training Group: Train with others for the Country Music Marathon and Half-Marathon, enjoying regular group runs as well as strength and mobility/flexibility classes. Long runs begin Jan. 3. Cost is $200 per individual ($50 per month). For more information, contact Stephanie Kennedy by email or by calling (615) 373-2900, ext. 72134.