Updated December 18, 2014.

"I'm thinking about training for a marathon. How many miles is a marathon?"

A marathon is 26.2 miles or 42 kilometers. Before you attempt to run a marathon, it's a good idea to be running for at least six months and run at least three times a week. I'd also suggest that you train for and run a shorter race, such as a 5K (3.1 miles), 10K (6.2) miles, or half marathon (13.1 miles) to get some race experience and boost your confidence about running.

If you're ready to start training for a marathon, here are some free marathon training plans:

Run/Walk Marathon Training Plan
This 20-week marathon training program is designed to help you run/walk to the finish line of your marathon.

Beginner Marathon Training Plan
To start this marathon training plan, you should have a running base mileage of 12-15 miles per week.

Advanced Beginner Marathon Training Plan
This 20-week marathon training schedule is geared toward runners who can run 4 miles comfortably and can run 4 to 5 days per week.

Intermediate Marathon Training Plan
This 18-week marathon training schedule is geared toward intermediate runners who have already run a marathon, currently run five days a week, and can run up to 6 miles at a time.

Advanced Marathon Training Plan
This 18-week marathon training schedule is geared toward advanced runners who can run up to 8 miles comfortably and are running at least five days a week.
Also see: How Long Will It Take Me to Run a Marathon?
Am I Ready to Train for a Marathon?

What's a Good Time for a Marathon?
How Much Does It Cost to Run a Marathon?

Other Race Distances: How Far is 1500 Meters? l How Far is a 5K? l How Far is an 8K? l How Far is a 10K? l How Far is a Half Marathon?