Marathon Walking - Choosing a Marathon Walk

Types of Marathons

• Those that are primarily a running marathon but have added a walking classification or allow for very slow runners/fast walkers.
  Top Picks for Run/Walk Marathons
• Non-competitive walking marathons: These are primarily for walkers with the rare runner participating. A variety of walking organizations host these in Europe. In the USA and Canada they are most often hosted by IVV member clubs.
  Top Picks for Walking-Only Marathons
• Racewalk marathons: While the 50K is the standard long distance racewalk, sometimes a judged racewalk marathon may be held. Participants must use legal racewalk form throughout the event.

Things to Consider

• How walker-friendly is it - what are the cut-off times to be off the course, and does it match your anticipated speed?
• How many walkers participate each year, and for how many years has the event been held and allowed walkers?
• What is the course like - paved, closed to traffic, hills, shade, urban, rural?
• What are the course amenities - how often are the water stops, rest stops, first aid stations, music along the course?
• What is the average temperature and rainfall on marathon day?
• What do other walkers say who have done the event previously?
• How much does it cost, and what do you get?
• Is it primarily a running marathon or is it primarily a walking marathon?
• Do they publish results for the walkers as well as the runners?

How to Find Out More

• Read the event's web site in detail.
• Call or email the race contact for more information.
• Ask other walkers for their opinions - our Bulletin Board is a great place to reach other walkers who have done various marathons.
• Read our reviews of some of the top marathons.

Next page: > Marathon Event Calendars

Training Courses by Email

Marathon Walking Lessons

• Marathon History
• Why is a Marathon so Tough?

• Shoes for the Marathon
• Walking Technique
• Base Mileage
• Marathon Mileage-Building Schedule
• Half-Marathon Training Schedule
• Marathon Coaching
• Charity Marathon Walking Programs

• Nutrition for Marathon Training
• Fluids - What to Drink When Training and on the Marathon
• Energy Snacks
• Clothing for the Marathon
• Blisters and Chafing

• Pacing
• Nature Calls
• The Finish

• Marathon Calendars
• Marathon Reviews
• Reader Tips
• Submit a Tip

• Marathon Cards
• Marathon Clip Art
• Before You Register for a Walking Marathon
• Book: "The Complete Guide to Marathon Walking"