Jersey City Marathon

Training

Half & Full Marathon Training Resources 

Whether you’re lacing up for your very first marathon or striving to hit a personal best, having the right resources is key to success. Marathon training requires careful planning, dedication, and the right tools to prepare both your body and mind for race day. That’s why we’ve curated a collection of resources tailored to runners of all levels. From building your mileage gradually to refining your pace strategy, our resources are designed to help you tackle the Jersey City Marathon with confidence and enthusiasm. Let’s make every step of your journey count!

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Need a Coach?

On The Run
Mental Fitness

On The Run L.L.C. Founder, 8x marathoner, RRCA Running Coach, NASM Certified Personal Trainer, Gait Analysis Expert, Mental Fitness, and Orange theory coach based in the New York City/Jersey City area.

Programming

OTR’s belief revolves around holistic training, training each portion of the body so you’re well-rounded physically, mentally, flexible, nutritionally educated, and strong. We offer a variety of services to help you achieve your goals.

All our RRCA Running Coaches specialize in writing personalized training plans based on your background, goals, course route, and race you have in mind whether that is a Marathon, Half, 15K, 10K, or 5K.

Strength + Conditioning

Strength training truly starts the process of conquering a race. I believe in intentional cross-training, moving with purpose. We work with you to avoid going through the motions and train biomechanics with a purpose.

Mental Fitness

In the mess of it all training the mind is 80% of the game, if you lack drive and a WHY behind all your goals, they will FAIL, point blank. Training your mind is just as important when it comes to a race, being able to say no to the voices in your head that tell you you can’t, and believing in yourself is so important.

LEARN MORE ABOUT RUN COACHING

Run clubs

Training for a marathon is always better with a community, and running clubs are the perfect way to stay motivated, improve your performance, and meet like-minded runners. Whether you’re looking for structured group training runs, expert coaching, or just a group of friendly faces to keep you accountable, there are plenty of fantastic running clubs in New Jersey to choose from.

Many more Running Clubs in NJ can be found here: runningintheusa.com
RUN CLUBS

Frequently Asked Questions

Changing, deferring or transferring events?
If you are registered for 1 race and run the other race, you will be disqualified from the results, and you will NOT receive a finisher’s medal.
Need to do an Event Transfer (switch events from either the full to the half or from the half to the full)?
The last date to transfer is 04/1/25
Need to Defer or Transfer to another person?

Oh no, we are bummed you can’t participate this year! Don’t worry, though, you have options! You can either defer your registration for a $25 fee and get free entry into the 2026 event, or you can transfer your registration for a $25 fee to another runner. Shirt sizes will not be changed after 3/15/2025. The last date to defer or transfer is 4/1/25

Defer Registration to 2026 Instructions (deadline is 4/1/25): Click Here

Transfer Registration to another person Instructions (deadline is 4/1/25): Click Here

Is this course certified?
Yes, This course has been and will be a fully USATF certified and sanctioned race and will be a qualifying event for the 2026 Boston Marathon.
Is the Expo free?
The Expo is part of your registration fee, and entry is complimentary. If you choose to pick up a bib at the expo, just show up, you don’t have to tell us in advance.
Can I pick up a Bib for someone else?

You may pick up for yourself or for another athlete, however, you must have that athlete’s confirmation email to present to the volunteers to retrieve that bib. No Email, No Bib, No Exceptions.

Do you provide refunds?
If you purchased the race insurance when you registered, then you can file a claim with them to get up to 100% back in registration fees. You should have gotten a separate email from the insurance company right after you registered. Terms, conditions, and exclusions apply. Insurance benefits are underwritten by Jefferson Insurance Company. AGA Service Company is the licensed producer and administrator of these plans.

pARTICIPANT TESTIMONIALS

Full Marathon Participant

The Jersey City Marathon is hands down one of the best races I’ve ever run. The waterfront views along the course were absolutely stunning, and the energy from the crowd was incredible. The organizers really thought of everything—plenty of aid stations, clear signage, and a smooth packet pick-up process. This was my first time running this marathon, and I’m already planning to come back next year. Highly recommend it to anyone looking for a well-organized, scenic race!
Anna M., Boston Qualifier

Half Marathon Participant

As someone who’s run a few half marathons before, I can honestly say the Jersey City Half Marathon was my favorite. The course was flat and fast, perfect for setting a personal record (which I did!). I appreciated the little details, like the enthusiastic volunteers and great post-race snacks. Plus, the medal design this year was awesome—such a cool keepsake! If you’re considering it, just go for it. You won’t regret it.
Mark R., Half Marathon Enthusiast

Full Marathon Participant

This was my second time running the Jersey City Marathon, and it’s clear how much the race has grown in just three years. The organizers did a great job of making everything feel seamless, from the starting line logistics to the post-race celebrations. The pacers were amazing and kept me motivated the entire way. What stood out the most was the support from the community—cheers at almost every corner! Jersey City really knows how to host a race.
Jessica L., Returning Runner