How Far Is a Marathon? Distance, History, and Tips for First-Time Runners

25 April, 2025 admin 0 Comments 1 category

Whether you’re a beginner runner or just curious about long-distance races, you’ve probably wondered: how far is a marathon? You hear about it in the Olympics, see “26.2” stickers on cars, and watch people train for months just to cross that finish line. But what makes this distance so special, and why does it seem like such a monumental challenge?

Let’s break it all down — from the exact distance of a marathon, its history, and how you can prepare to conquer one yourself.

How Many KMs Is a Marathon?

The official distance of a marathon is 42.195 kilometers — often rounded to 42.2 km. In miles, that’s 26.2 miles. This has been the standardized marathon distance since the 1908 London Olympics.

So, if you’re asking, “How many kms is marathon?”, the answer is 42.2 km to be precise.

Why Is a Marathon 42.2 km?

It’s a bit of a quirky story. Originally, marathons were about 40 km (roughly the distance from Marathon to Athens in Greece) — which was the route run by the ancient Greek messenger Pheidippides to announce victory in battle.

But during the 1908 London Olympics, the course was extended to 42.195 km so the race could start at Windsor Castle and finish in front of the royal box in the Olympic Stadium. This exact distance stuck and became the global standard.

So when people ask, “Why is it 42.2 km?”, the answer is: royal preference, tradition, and Olympic history.

Is 5km Run a Marathon?

No, a 5km run is not a marathon — though it is a popular and fantastic entry point into running.

To put it in perspective:

5K (5 kilometers) = 1/8th of a marathon
Half marathon = 21.1 km
Full marathon = 42.2 km

While a 5K race is an excellent goal, especially for beginners, completing a full marathon requires a different level of endurance, preparation, and mental fortitude.

So, next time someone asks, “Is 5km run a marathon?”, you’ll know — not quite, but it’s a great start!

What Is the Average Time to Finish a Marathon?

The average marathon finishing time varies by age, gender, and experience level. However, general averages are:

Men: 4 hours 15 minutes
Women: 4 hours 45 minutes

Elite runners, of course, are much faster:

World Record (Men): 2:00:35 (Eliud Kipchoge)
World Record (Women): 2:11:53 (Tigst Assefa)

If you’re a first-time marathoner, a time of 4.5 to 5.5 hours is a common and realistic goal.

What to Expect When Training for a Marathon

Now that you know how far is a marathon, here’s what you’ll need to train for it:

1. Long Runs

You’ll gradually build up your distance over several months. Many training plans peak with a 32–35 km run before race day.

2. Cross Training & Strength

Incorporate other activities like swimming or cycling to improve overall fitness and reduce injury risk.

3. Rest Days

Yes, rest is training too! Your muscles need time to recover and grow stronger.

4. Nutrition & Hydration

You’ll need to fuel properly before, during, and after runs. Think carbohydrates, electrolytes, and lots of water.

The Marathon Experience

There’s nothing quite like crossing a marathon finish line. You’ll feel:

Physical exhaustion
Mental triumph
Emotional pride

It’s not just about the distance — it’s about the journey, the commitment, and the transformation that happens along the way.

Many runners say their first marathon changes them forever — not because it was easy, but because they did something they once thought impossible.

Final Thoughts

Now that you know how far is a marathon, you understand it’s more than just a number — it’s a test of endurance, discipline, and self-belief. Whether you’re cheering from the sidelines or dreaming of running your first 42.2 km, the marathon holds a legendary place in human achievement.

Ready to lace up and hit the road? Start small, stay consistent, and remember — every step gets you closer to the finish line.

Category: Exercise