Training Builds Community.
Free Group Long Runs in Athens — and Free Training Plans for Everyone
We know how important good training is — so we give it away, for free, to everyone! We also organize free group Saturday long runs in Athens during the weeks leading up to race day.
The 2026 plans are linked below, to give you some ideas. Details for 2027 will appear here later!
Novice Marathon Training Plan. Ideally suited to the first-time marathoner. You can do this! Steady increases in mileage, with plenty of rest and recovery, will prepare you to finish the Classic City Marathon with a smile!
Intermediate Marathon Training Plan. For the experienced distance runner who is targeting a specific finish time or trying to improve on a previous marathon. Includes race-pace tempo workouts, more mileage overall, and three 20-mile runs.
Novice Half Marathon Training Plan.Perfect for a first-time half marathoner aiming to finish the 13.1 distance. Run four days each week, increasing steadily toward your amazing race day!
Intermediate Half Marathon Training Plan. Includes some race-pace tempo workouts and a bit more distance each week. Try the intermediate plan if you have finished a half marathon before and want to be improving your time.
Relay Training Plan. Work your way up from 2 miles to 6.5 miles, just in time for the Classic City Marathon Relay! Two easy runs and one long run every week — perfect if you are tackling distance running for the first time (or if you need to be smart about not over-training this winter).
Speaking of training: A marathon, a half marathon, or 6 whole miles is a serious goal.
Try reading this super informative post about training by our very own Medical Co-Director, Dr. Joe Colasurdo. Smart, steady training can get you to your finish line!
Meet Coach Al
Al Jeffers is a USATF-certified and RRCA-certified running coach. He has worked with the Athens Road Runners racing teams and other Athens Road Runners members since 2013. He was proud to design the first Classic City Marathon training plans in 2023, and he has continued to support all Classic City runners every year!
“I have coached endurance athletes of all abilities and experience levels, from beginners to Olympics participants, for over 40 years. I strongly encourage runners to choose a training plan and to join a group for the long runs. Running long miles with others gives you a chance to make new friends, help someone else with their running journey, and take in some encouragement from the group when you are in need of support. Never doubt your potential.” – Coach Al
Coach Al is also available for private coaching or consultation with individual runners.
Waivers and Disclaimers
The training plans and other ideas presented above are intended solely as suggestions that individuals might choose to consider. All runners must make their own decisions about their abilities and limitations; must understand the known dangers of running, including weather, traffic, terrain, health emergencies, animals, and other hazards of running alone or with a group; and must accept the responsibility for all consequences of their decision to run. Please consult with your own medical or other advisors before you run.
Saturday long runs are organized as optional activities by the Athens Road Runners and its associated Classic City Marathon Association. All runners must accept all responsibility for their decision to run and will be asked to agree to liability waivers before participating in group training runs.