If you’re tired of jogging along the 10 lap/mile indoor track or on the treadmill, then venture out beyond the gates and discover the scenic pathways, trails, and neighborhoods of Memphis.
Don’t fear what lies outside of the gates!
Running Routes
2.13 mile loop
Start: Campus gates across from Lyndale
Turn left towards North Parkway
At North Parkway turn left
Turn left onto West Drive
Turn right onto North Drive
Turn right onto Center Drive
Turn right onto North Parkway
Turn right onto University Street
End: Campus gates across from Lyndale, on right
Overton Park Running Trails
There’s an entrance on North Parkway across from campus that will lead you directly to both marked running trails and unmarked running paths. If you’re looking for a longer run, grab a buddy and head over to Overton Park for a 5K run, 10K run, or just for a walk on a nice day. The paths circle around the Memphis Zoo and reach the Memphis College of Art Campus and Overton Park Golf Course.
Overton Park info:
http://memphisrunners.racesonline.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=site.display&…
VECA Green Line
The Green Line is approx. 1.7 miles long and is very close to campus. If you’re starting at the campus gates across from Lyndale, take a right on to University St. towards Jackson and you’ll see a sign for the entrance to the Green Line. Make sure to take a buddy and enjoy!
Green Line info: http://www.vegreenline.org/greenbasics.htm
Memphis Runners Track Club’s Running Path suggestions
http://www.memphisrunners.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=site.display&page_id=…
Group Runs!
New to running? Check out the group runs through the Memphis Runners Track Club. This is for both newbies and speed runners alike.
http://memphisrunners.racesonline.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=site.display&…
Safety Tips
1) Always make sure to map your run out before you go. An easy way to do this is by checking out Map My Run! This is a website that allows you to create and search running routes online. If you have an iPhone, you can even track your speed, distance, share your running times with friends, and more! Sign up today and start mapping out your routes (for free!) at www.mapmyrun.com
2) Run with a buddy if possible
3) Run with your phone (if you have an iPhone, download your music to it and use it as your iPod)
4) Run during the daytime
5) Keep your music at a quiet volume so that you’re aware of your surroundings
6) Run while alert (Do not go running after sleeping for two hours)
7) Stay on paths or the sidewalk, don’t create your own path (even though this is obvious, many runners do not follow this rule)
Do you have a favorite running route near campus or in Memphis? Post a comment below and I will feature your route in a future Shape-Up Rhodes post!
Stay tuned for information about upcoming 5K’s, 10K’s, and fun fitness events in Memphis!