One of the things runners talk about most after completing the TCS Sydney Marathon is the hills.
And here’s the good news…
The hills are not nearly as bad as people make them out to be.
Sydney is certainly not a flat marathon, but neither is it a mountain course. With approximately 317 metres of elevation gain across 42.2 kilometres, the climbs are spread throughout the race rather than coming all at once.
What Does 317 Metres of Elevation Mean?
In simple terms, imagine climbing a 100-storey building — but instead of doing it all at once, those climbs are spread over an entire marathon.
Most runners are surprised to discover that Sydney’s hills are generally gradual rather than steep.
In fact, runners from The Running Channel described the course perfectly:
“The hills may be constant but are never seriously challenging.”
Where Are the Main Hills?
0–4km: Harbour Bridge and Early Downhills
The race begins with one of the most iconic moments in world running — crossing the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
While there is a climb onto the bridge, the opening kilometres actually contain plenty of downhill running. The temptation is to go too fast early, so it pays to stay relaxed and conserve energy.
16–28km: Anzac Parade
This section contains long, rolling terrain rather than sharp climbs. The road gradually rises and falls, and runners who have included hills in training usually handle this section very well.
30–34km: Centennial Park
By this stage fatigue is beginning to build, which can make even small rises feel bigger than they really are. The scenery and crowd support help carry runners through this section.
40km: Mrs Macquarie’s Chair
This is the hill everyone talks about.
Not because it is particularly steep — but because it arrives so late in the race when your legs are tired. Fortunately, once you crest this rise, the reward is magnificent.
You are greeted by spectacular views before a largely downhill run towards the finish beside the Sydney Opera House.
Why Hill Training Matters
Hill training helps you:
✅ Build stronger legs.
✅ Improve running efficiency.
✅ Prepare your body for changing terrain.
✅ Develop mental confidence.
✅ Learn to run to effort rather than pace.
The beauty of hill training is that you don’t need mountains. A few rolling hills once or twice a week, or some short hill repeats, can make a huge difference on race day.
Remember…
Sydney’s hills are part of what make the course so memorable.
They take you across the Harbour Bridge, through some of Australia’s most famous landmarks and ultimately deliver one of the most spectacular finishes in world marathon running.
And when you stand beside the Sydney Opera House with your medal around your neck, you’ll realise every hill was worth it.
