Boston Marathon presented by Bank of AmericaAddress: Jack Fleming, Boston Athletic Association, 699 Boylston St. Suite 800, Boston, MA 02116Phone: +1 617 236 1652Email:media@baa.orgWebsite:http://www.baa.org
Zurich Rock ’n’ Roll Running Series MadridAddress: Pedro Rumbao, Mapoma Run Center, C/ Aniceto Marinas 52, 28008 MadridPhone: +34914479641Email:drumbao@mapoma.esWebsite:http://www.rocknrollmadridrun.com
Maratón Internacional de MendozaAddress: Rodolfo Giordano, Fundación Filipides, Nicaragua 6062 piso 2, depto D, CABA, Buenos Aires 1425Phone: +5491153074042Email:rodygiordano@gmail.comWebsite:http://www.maratondemendoza.com
3 May 2026
Prague International Marathon
CZE
Marathon
Prague International MarathonAddress: Carlo Capalbo, RunCzech, Františka Křížka 11, 17000 PraguePhone: +420 224 919 209Email:info@runczech.comWebsite:http://www.runczech.com
Borneo International MarathonAddress: Datuk Dr Heng Aik Cheng, Kinabalu Running Club, Lot A215-A217, 2nd Floor, Wisma Merdeka Phase I, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah 88000Phone: +0102563883Email:info@borneomarathon.comWebsite:http://www.borneomarathon.com
Midnight Sun MarathonAddress: Nils I. Haetta, TUIL Arena 2, Arthur Arntzens Veg 31, 9020 TromsdalenPhone: +4791631506Email:info@msm.noWebsite:http://www.msm.no
North Pole MarathonAddress: Oliver Wang, Runbuk, 433 Airport Blvd Suite 415, Burlingame CA 94010, USAPhone: +1 650 344 3898Email:info@runbuk.comWebsite:http://www.npmarathon.com
19 July 2026
Amazing Thailand Pattaya Marathon – Official Pattaya City Marathon
THA
Marathon, Half marathon, Road Race
Amazing Thailand Pattaya Marathon – Official Pattaya City MarathonAddress: Kobkiat Sangwanich, 1567 Srivara Road, Soi Town In Town 11, Phlabphla, Wangthonglang, Bangkok 10310Phone: +66 2 957 5880Email:kobkiat.spm@gmail.comWebsite:http://www.pattayamarathon.com
Siberian International MarathonAddress: Konstantin Podbelskiy, ul. Pevtsova 1, 644099 OmskPhone: +7 3812 242 567Email:mail@runsim.ruWebsite:http://runsim.ru
Maratón de la Ciudad de México TelcelAddress: Javier Carvallo Chinchilla, División del Norte 2333 General Anaya, C.p. 03340 Benito Juárez, México D.F.Phone: +52 55 56048255Email:maraton@cdmx.gob.mxWebsite:http://maraton.cdmx.gob.mx
Chisinau International MarathonAddress: Dmitri Voloshin, str. Calea Orheiului 28/1, MD2005, ChisinauPhone: +37322 111 072Email:event@sporter.mdWebsite:http://www.marathon.md
Almaty MarathonAddress: Saltanat Kazybayeva, Corporate Fund “Courage to be the first”, 050059 Almaty, Al-Farabi Avenue, building 5, Pavilion 1A, Office 501Phone: +7 727 3115185Email:info@almaty-marathon.kzWebsite:http://almaty-marathon.kz/en/events
BMW Berlin-MarathonAddress: Mark Milde, Hanns-Braun-Strasse/Adlerplatz, 14053 BerlinPhone: +49 30 301 288 10Website:http://www.bmw-berlin-marathon.com
27 September 2026
Kuching Marathon
MAS
Marathon, Half marathon, Road Race
Kuching MarathonAddress: Liew Tang Chieh, Kuching Marathon Association, c/o Harvest Management Consultancy, 3rd Floor, Lot 11869, Westin Avenue, Jalan Tun Jugah, 93350 Kuching, SarawakPhone: +60 12 6327273Email:kchmarathon@gmail.comWebsite:http://www.marathonkuching.com
27 September 2026
Baxters Loch Ness Marathon & Festival of Running
GBR
Marathon
Baxters Loch Ness Marathon & Festival of RunningAddress: Malcolm Sutherland, Caledonian Concepts, In Business Centre, 24 Longman Drive, Inverness IV1 1SUPhone: +07549 331473Email:info@lochnessmarathon.comWebsite:http://www.lochnessmarathon.com
Kuala Lumpur Standard Chartered MarathonAddress: Rainer Biemans, Dirigo Events Sdn Bhd, Unit No. 21-5, Block F2, Jalan PJU 1/42A, Dataran Prima, 47301 Petaling Jaya, SelangorPhone: +603 7621 7787Email:dirigo@dirigo.com.myWebsite:http://www.kl-marathon.com
Techcombank Hanoi International MarathonAddress: Le Viet Phuong, Level 3, A1 Towers, Unit 00.07, Sarimi Condo, 72-74 Nguyen Co Thach, An Loi Dong Ward, District 2, Ho Chi Minh CityPhone: +84989024825Email:marathontcbhn@sunriseevents.com.vnWebsite:http://marathonhn.com
UCR Half MarathonAddress: Muhammad Massum, House No K 59, South Badda, Badda, Gulshan, Dhaka 1212Phone: +880 1930 598 312Email:bd.ultracamprunners@gmail.com
Bank of America Chicago MarathonAddress: Carey Pinkowski, IL4-110-05-04, Floor 5 – Marathon Suite, 110 N. Wacker Drive, Chicago, IL 60606-1511Phone: +1 312 904 9800Email:office@chicagomarathon.comWebsite:http://chicagomarathon.com
Hyundai Lisbon Half MarathonAddress: Carlos Moya, Maratona Clube de Portugal, Bairro Franscisco Sá Carneiro, Av. João Freitas Branco 10, Laveiras, 2760-073 CAXIASPhone: +351914117310Email:geral@maratonaportugal.comWebsite:http://www.maratonaclubedeportugal.com
Wizz Air Sofia MarathonAddress: Albena Tomova Ilieva, Sport in the Free Time Association, 71, Tsar Ivan Assen II Str., 1124 SofiaPhone: +359 888 657 313Email:tolisport@abv.bgWebsite:http://sofiamarathon.bg/en/
11 October 2026
Tlajomulco Half Marathon Skarch Hydrated by Electrolit
MEX
Half marathon
Tlajomulco Half Marathon Skarch Hydrated by ElectrolitAddress: Salvador de Jesús Alejandre Mendoza, Constitución Oriente #157 interior B, Unidad Deportiva Mariano Otero Colonia centro, Municipio de Tlajomulco de Zúñiga, Jalisco 45058Phone: +52 33 13 12 52 09Email:gestiondeproyectos.comude@gmail.comWebsite:http://www.facebook.com/mmtlajomulco
Maratón Internacional de JuárezAddress: Natalia Aransazú Flores García, Integra Marketing, Calzada Del Rio 9831-A, Las Palomas, CP 32413, Cd. Juárez Chihuahua MexicoPhone: +52 656 613 00013Email:nflores@maratondejuarez.comWebsite:http://www.maratondejuarez.com
18 October 2026
10km International de Marrakech
MAR
Road Race
10km International de MarrakechAddress: Rachid Ben Meziane, Avenhil 14, 3274 CT Heinenoord, NederlandPhone: +00212 669243139Email:info@2cras.comWebsite:http://www.rbmsports.com
Maratón AguascalientesAddress: Jose Luis Trujillo Alcala, San Juan de los Lagos 401-a, Bosques del Prado Sur CP 20130, Aguascalientes, AGS, (Entre Calles Sierra Pinos y Sierra del Humo)Phone: +52 449 9079541Email:maratonaguascalientes@hotmail.comWebsite:http://maratonaguascalientes.com
Standard Chartered Hanoi Marathon Heritage RaceAddress: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Tri, DHA Vietnam Co.LTD, 505 Minh Khai Street, Vinh Tuy Ward, HanoiPhone: +84903432295Email:hanh.nth@dhavietnam.vnWebsite:http://hanoi-marathon.com
Antarctic Ice UltraAddress: Oliver Wang, Runbuk, 433 Airport Blvd Suite 415, Burlingame CA 94010, USAPhone: +1 650 344 3898Email:info@runbuk.comWebsite:http://www.iceultra.com
8 November 2026
Medio Maratón la Capital del Deporte
MEX
Half marathon, Road Race
Medio Maratón la Capital del DeporteAddress: Luis Fernando Alonso Molina, Av Parque National 356, Col Jarita de Jalisco 78294Phone: +4442098275Email:slp.deportesocial2427@gmail.com
8 November 2026
Guadalajara Marathon Skarch hydrated by Electrolit
Bangkok MarathonAddress: National Jogging Association of Thailand (NJAT), 286 Rajamangala National Stadium Room 243 Zone W3, Hua Mak, Bang kapi, Bangkok, 10240Phone: +66 92 499 0442Email:njatbkk@gmail.comWebsite:http://www.bkkmarathon.com
15 November 2026
Bangsaen42 Chonburi Marathon
THA
Marathon
Bangsaen42 Chonburi MarathonAddress: Rut Jiroajvanichakorn, MICE & Communication Co., Ltd., 127 Panjabhumi Building 1, Floor 8th, Road South Sathorn, Tung-Mahamek, Sathorn, Bangkok 10120Phone: +66 641645445Email:rut@mice.co.thWebsite:http://www.bangsaen42.com
Radisson Blu Larnaka International MarathonAddress: Constandinos Kivittis, Eleven Blue Events Ltd, Franklin Roosevelt 86, Petra Business Centre, 2&3 Floor., 3011 LimassolPhone: +700 50 123Email:info@larnakamarathon.comWebsite:http://www.larnakamarathon.com
Ayla Red Sea Half MarathonAddress: Lina El Kurd, 5 Hussain El Jesser Street, Shemesani, PO Box 941001, 11194 AmmanPhone: +00962799088804Email:l.kurd@runjordan.comWebsite:http://www.runjordan.com
4–6 December 2026
Run Barbados Marathon Weekend
BAR
Marathon, Half marathon, Road Race
Run Barbados Marathon WeekendAddress: Zary Evelyn, Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc, Condo #11 El Sol Surano, Durants, Christ ChurchPhone: +12462436902Email:runbarbados@gmail.comWebsite:http://www.runbarbados.org
Run Bhopal RunAddress: Shiv Shankar Kosgi, S S Events Office, Office no. 6, Beta Block, Jayabheri Silicon County, HyderabadPhone: +7799092888Email:runbhopalrun@gmail.comWebsite:http://runbhopalrun.com
Hsinchu City MarathonAddress: Hung-Cheng Tsai, No. 397, Sec. 1, Sanrong Rd., Wuri Dist., Taichung City 414609Phone: +886 2 2912 5566Email:Jason.tsai@h2u.aiWebsite:http://hsinchucitymarathon.com
6 December 2026
Photak Marathon
THA
Marathon
Photak Marathon
6 December 2026
Pune International Marathon
IND
Marathon, Half marathon, Road Race
Pune International MarathonAddress: Rohan More, Pune International Marathon, Flat No. 302, Vikram Nandadeep Apt. Opp.Patrakarnagar, off Senapati Bapat Rd., Pune, MH, 411016Phone: +91 9075748911Email:office.pimt@gmail.comWebsite:http://www.marathonpune.com
Standard Chartered Hong Kong MarathonAddress: Wong Kim Lun, Alan, 24/F Guangdong Tours Centre, 18 Pennington Street, Causeway BayPhone: +852 2577 0800Email:inquiry@hkaaa.comWebsite:http://www.hkmarathon.com
Boston Marathon presented by Bank of AmericaAddress: Jack Fleming, Boston Athletic Association, 699 Boylston St. Suite 800, Boston, MA 02116Phone: +1 617 236 1652Email:media@baa.orgWebsite:http://www.baa.org
2 May 2027
Prague International Marathon
CZE
Marathon
Prague International MarathonAddress: Carlo Capalbo, RunCzech, Františka Křížka 11, 17000 PraguePhone: +420 224 919 209Email:info@runczech.comWebsite:http://www.runczech.com
How to Plan Your Marathon Year: The Races & Prep Guide
Running a marathon is a remarkable achievement that requires careful planning.
Whether you’re a seasoned runner or a beginner, organizing your marathon calendar in advance can make a huge difference in your training and race experience.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you plan your marathon journey for 2026.
Why Plan Ahead for Marathons?
Planning months ahead ensures you have enough time to train properly, register for events, and manage logistics.
With a well-structured schedule, you can set realistic goals, stay motivated, and avoid last-minute stress.
This approach also allows you to balance your personal and professional life, ensuring you’re ready on race day.
Factors to Consider When Selecting a Marathon
The right marathon can make a big difference in your running journey.
Here are a few factors to consider when picking the right marathon.
Location
Consider races in attractive destinations like California or NY.
Date
Choose a marathon that fits well with your training schedule and personal commitments.
Course Difficulty
Pick a marathon with a course that aligns with your running style and abilities, whether you prefer flat and fast or hilly and scenic.
2026 Marathon Calendar: A Few Races to Look At
Estimates suggest that between 2,500 and 4,000 marathons occur annually worldwide.
They attract approximately 11 million participants, and this number is only growing.
Here, we highlight the most prominent races you might be interested in.
For the most up-to-date information and registration details, it’s advisable to check the official websites of each marathon.
JANUARY
Standard Chartered Hong Kong Marathon – 18 Jan 2026.
Buriram Marathon (Thailand) – 24 Jan 2026.
Mumbai Marathon – 18 Jan 2026.
Chongqing Marathon (China) – 18 Jan 2026.
FEBRUARY
Dubai Marathon – 1 Feb 2026.
Seville Marathon – 15 Feb 2026.
Ho Chi Minh City Marathon – Jan/Feb range.
MARCH
Tokyo Marathon – 1 Mar 2026.
Barcelona Marathon – 15 Mar 2026.
Rome Marathon – 22 Mar 2026.
Antarctica Marathon – 19 Mar 2026 (on King George Island; adventure marathon).
Lisbon Marathon – 8 Mar 2026.
APRIL
Paris Marathon – 12 Apr 2026.
Boston Marathon – 20 Apr 2026 (Monday, Patriots’ Day). World Marathon Major.
London Marathon – 26 Apr 2026.
Rotterdam Marathon – 12 Apr 2026.
Hamburg Marathon – 26 Apr 2026.
MAY
Prague Marathon – 3 May 2026.
Cape Town Marathon – 24 May 2026.
Cork City Marathon – 31 May 2026.
Belfast City Marathon – 3 May 2026.
JUNE
Aruba Marathon – 7 Jun 2026.
Comrades Marathon (South Africa) – 14 Jun 2026.
Midnight Sun Marathon (Tromsø, Norway) – 20 Jun 2026.
JULY
Victoria Falls Marathon – 5 Jul 2026.
AUGUST
Reykjavík Marathon – 22 Aug 2026.
Sydney Marathon – 30 Aug 2026.
SEPTEMBER
Berlin Marathon – 27 Sep 2026. World Marathon Major.
Chicago Marathon – 11 Oct 2026. World Marathon Major.
Amsterdam Marathon – 18 Oct 2026.
Irish Life Dublin Marathon – 25 Oct 2026.
Polar Circle Marathon (Greenland) – 25 Oct 2026 (adventure race).
NOVEMBER
New York City Marathon – 1 Nov 2026. World Marathon Major.
Athens Classic Marathon – 9 Nov 2026. A historic course from Marathon to Athens. Istanbul Marathon – 2 Nov 2026 (intercontinental city marathon).
DECEMBER
Shanghai Marathon – 6 Dec 2026 (major Asian late-season race).
Singapore Marathon – 7 Dec 2026 (city marathon in warm climate).
Keep in mind that this is not an exhaustive list, and new races are being added regularly.
You can also subscribe to the AIMS calendar to stay updated.
These marathons offer unique experiences and are set in some of the most iconic and beautiful locations around the world.
For more detailed information on each event, you can visit their official websites or registration pages.
Marathon Training and Preparation: Tips From Pro Athletes
Developing a solid training plan is crucial for marathon success.
Most training plans span 16 to 20 weeks, focusing on gradually increasing mileage, incorporating long runs, speed work, and recovery days.
Eliud Kipchoge, the world record holder in the marathon, follows a meticulously structured training plan that includes long runs, intervals, and strength training.
As Kipchoge says, “The marathon is not about the legs, it’s about the heart and mind,” emphasizing the mental as well as physical preparation required.
Proper nutrition and hydration are equally vital throughout the training period.
A well-rounded diet with plenty of carbs, proteins, and fats, paired with proper hydration, ensures peak performance.
Shalane Flanagan, the 2017 NY City Marathon champion, underscores the importance of nutrition, having co-authored the book “Run Fast. Eat Slow.” to highlight healthy eating for runners.
She states, “Food is my fuel. I focus on eating nutrient-dense foods to keep my body strong and my mind sharp.”
Cross-training and strength work are also key components of a well-rounded training regimen. These activities improve overall fitness and reduce the risk of injury.
Des Linden, the 2018 Boston Marathon winner, includes swimming and cycling in her training to maintain fitness while giving her legs a break from running.
Linden notes, “Cross-training is a great way to maintain fitness while allowing your body to recover from the pounding of running.”
Race Day Essentials
Having the right gear can make a significant difference on race day.
This includes well-fitted running shoes, moisture-wicking clothing, and any necessary accessories like a GPS watch or hydration pack.
Meb Keflezighi, winner of the 2009 NY City Marathon and the 2014 Boston Marathon, always emphasizes the importance of proper gear.
He says that “The right gear can help you perform at your best and prevent injuries.”
Race-day nutrition should be carefully planned.
This might include energy gels, bars, or drinks.
Practicing your nutrition strategy during long training runs is crucial to avoid any surprises on race day.
Kara Goucher, an Olympian and professional marathoner, shares her race-day nutrition strategy, which includes taking energy gels at regular intervals.
She advises, “Practice your nutrition during long runs so you know what works for you on race day.”
Post-Marathon Recovery and Reflection
Proper recovery is essential to help your body heal and prevent injuries.
This includes rest, gentle exercise, and good nutrition.
Ryan Hall, the fastest American marathoner, emphasizes the importance of recovery, using techniques like ice baths, massages, and rest days.
He explains, “Recovery is where the magic happens. It’s when your body rebuilds and gets stronger.”
After the marathon, focus on replenishing glycogen stores with carbohydrates and repairing muscles with protein.
Shalane Flanagan recommends nutrient-rich foods like sweet potatoes, lean meats, and plenty of vegetables for post-race recovery. She advises, “Post-race nutrition is crucial for recovery. Eat a balanced meal within an hour after finishing.”
Taking time to reflect on your marathon experience is also important.
Celebrate your accomplishments, analyze what went well, and identify areas for improvement.