Marathons

Marathons are long-distance running races with an official distance of 42.195 kilometers, 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 is said to have run the distance without stopping to bring the news of the victory.

History

The history of marathons dates back to ancient Greece. The name Marathon comes from the legend of Pheidippides, the Greek messenger. The legend states that he was sent from the battlefield of Marathon to Athens to announce that the Persians had been defeated in the Battle of Marathon (in which he had just fought), which took place in August or September, 490 BC.

Modern Marathons

The International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) is the international governing body for the sport of athletics, including marathons. The IAAF sets the rules for the standard marathon. The current men's world record is 2:01:39, set by Eliud Kipchoge of Kenya on September 16, 2018, at the Berlin Marathon.

Training

Marathon training involves dedicated running and recovery periods to prepare the body and mind for the strenuous distance. Training programs can range from 12 to 26 weeks, with runners typically building up their distance each week.

Health and Safety

Running a marathon can put a lot of stress on the body. It's important for runners to be aware of the potential health risks associated with marathon running, such as dehydration, heat stroke, and overuse injuries. Proper training, hydration, and pacing can help prevent these issues.

Famous Marathons

Some of the most famous marathons include the Boston Marathon, New York City Marathon, London Marathon, and Berlin Marathon. These races attract runners from all over the world and are known for their challenging courses and enthusiastic spectators.

See Also

• Half marathon
• Ultramarathon
• Triathlon
• Ironman Triathlon