Hills for Breakfast: The best spots for hill repeats in Minneapolis

Minneapolis may be known for its lakes and flat running trails, but did you know there are plenty of hills throughout the city that can add a challenge to your training. Hill repeats are a great way to build strength and improve your overall running economy. Whether you are looking for steep climbs or short hills, Minneapolis has you covered. 

Why Should Runners Do Hill Repeats?

Hill repeats require strength and speed in order to be successful. Running uphills allows you to hone in on your running form while also pushing your leg strength. You will find that after performing hill repeats in your training, you will feel more powerful and confident going into your races. 

Where Are the Best Spots for Hill Repeats in Minneapolis? 

Theodore Wirth Park

Theodore Wirth Park contains a wide variety of hills that allow you to personalize your training to your goals. The park has paved and unpaved trails with gradual and steep climbs. With so many different routes available, you are able to tackle all aspects of your training. 

Kenwood Parkway and Lowry Hill

Looking for short hill repeats? Kenwood Parkway and Lowry Hill have you covered. This area contains several short and steep climbs, all paved and ready to run on. The streets around Kenwood Parkway, Waverly Place, and Mount Curve are the perfect destination if you want to test your overall power and running form. 

West River Parkway

Looking for longer climbs? West River Parkway provides the perfect long climbs that will help you improve your strength and endurance. Especially around the Mississippi River Gorge and Franklin Avenue, you’ll get a gorgeous view of the river. 

Tower Hill Park 

You can find Tower Hill Park by locating Prospect Park. Known for being one of the highest points in Minneapolis, the surrounding neighborhood provides several uphill approaches that test your endurance. Utilizing these hills into repeats or even just part of your long run can help you train with added elevation. 

How Should You Add Hills Into Your Training?

If you are just beginning to do hill repeats, start simple. Find a hill that takes 30-60 seconds to climb and run at a controlled but challenging pace. After reaching the top, jog back down at an easy pace and repeat. A solid baseline of repetitions can be between 4-8 in a single workout. As your body adapts you can progress up to 8-12 repetitions per workout. Remember that consistency is key to seeing results, so ideally hill workouts are done once every 7-10 days. 

Need Help from a Coach? 

From 5k to 100 mile ultramarathon, PRG’s coaching team has nationally certified coaches with experience to help you reach your trail running, road running, and cross country running goals. Book a free Run Coaching Consultation online at www.performancerungym.com/run-coaching