Marathon

Marathon

Participants in the Orlen Warsaw Marathon 2014

A marathon is a long-distance running race with an official distance of 42.195 kilometers (26.219 miles), usually run as a road race. The event was instituted in commemoration of the fabled run of the Greek soldier Pheidippides, a messenger from the Battle of Marathon to Athens, who reported the victory.

History

Depiction of Pheidippides delivering the message of victory

The marathon has its origins in ancient Greece. According to legend, Pheidippides ran from the battlefield of Marathon to Athens to announce the Greek victory over the Persians in 490 BC. The modern marathon was first introduced in the 1896 Summer Olympics in Athens, Greece.

The 1896 Olympic marathon

The distance of the marathon was standardized in 1921 by the International Amateur Athletic Federation (IAAF) to 42.195 kilometers (26.219 miles).

Modern Marathons

Participant of the 2016 Boston Marathon

Today, marathons are held all over the world, with some of the most famous being the Boston Marathon, London Marathon, Berlin Marathon, Chicago Marathon, and New York City Marathon. These events attract professional athletes and amateur runners alike.

Samuel Wanjiru at the 2008 Summer Olympics

Marathon Running

Running a marathon requires extensive training and preparation. Runners typically follow a training plan that includes long runs, speed work, and rest days. Nutrition and hydration are also critical components of marathon preparation.

Cultural Impact

Ancient Greek depiction of a soldier running

The marathon has become a symbol of endurance and perseverance. It is often used as a metaphor for any long and challenging task. The phrase "hitting the wall" is commonly used to describe the point in a marathon where a runner's glycogen stores are depleted, leading to fatigue.

Notable Marathons

Marathon in Barcelona, 2007

Some marathons are known for their unique courses or challenging conditions. The Kigali Peace Marathon in Rwanda is notable for its scenic route and its message of peace and reconciliation.

Aerial view of the Kigali Peace Marathon

Related Pages

• Half marathon
• Ultramarathon
• Running
• Athletics (sport)