The biggest marathons in the world

For many people on a marathon training schedule, identifying the right race to compete in is vitally important.

Often, the running is as much about the setting as the race itself. There is an innate thrill associated with running past famous landmarks along streets lined by throngs of cheering crowds, attentive camera crews and performing live bands.

The most prestigious races today are known the ‘Big Five’: Boston, Chicago, New York, London and Berlin.

While you might be forgiven for thinking the world’s first marathon was run in Ancient Greece – indeed, there is a historic town there called Marathon – it actually took place in Boston in 1897.

With its long history and reputation for being particularly tough, competitors must navigate four hills before reaching the Black Bay. It is a popular race and one of the most sought-after by emerging runners.

The first New York marathon was staged in 1970, and became so popular that a lottery system is now used to select participants. The Chicago marathon first took place in 1977 and quickly gained a reputation amongst runners as a fast and consistent course. Across the Atlantic, the London marathon launched in 1981 and is famously inclusive, offering tiered categories for everyone, from elite pros to disabled athletes and fun runners raising funds for charity.

Lastly, the ever-popular Berlin marathon, with 40,000 competitors lining up each year, now stages events over two days, and even a includes a category for in-line skaters.

Prospective runners preparing for any of these events can contact marathon training coach Maximum Mileage Coaching today for a bespoke training plan.