Below you’ll find tables detailing several marathon superlatives: Note that we said “on record-eligible courses.” That’s why Eliud Kipchoge’s 1:59:40 in Vienna isn’t on the list from 2019. That time doesn’t count for record purposes because standard competition rules for pacing and fluids weren’t followed. Similarly, times from the Boston course can’t be on the list, because of its point-to-point layout and too-great net elevation drop.
Each marathoner appears on the first list, for the fastest performers in history, only once. The third set of tables, for fastest performances in history, allows for a runner to appear more than once. For example, Kelvin Kiptum and Eliud Kipchoge both appear twice in the fastest-performances list for men.
All tables are current as of November 1, 2026. Get the latest training advice, racing news, and inspirational stories right to your inbox. Recommended Experience: No experience necessary!
Anyone can accomplish this training plan. Get the PlanRecommended Experience: This plan is for a new runner who is just getting back into exercise. Get the PlanRecommended Experience: For a new runner who has been exercising regularly for at least a year, or someone who has completed a few 5Ks or 10Ks and can complete 6 miles in one workout.
This plan peaks at 28 miles in a week with a 12-mile long run. Get the PlanRecommended Experience: For runners comfortable exercising for at least an hour at a moderate effort. This plan peaks at 32 miles in a week with a 14-mile long run.
Get the PlanRecommended Experience: For a consistent runner used to regularly working out four to five times a week. The plan starts with a 10-mile long run and peaks at 44 to 47 miles a week with a 22-mile long run, helping you average under a 9:10 per mile come race day. Scott is a veteran running, fitness, and health journalist who has held senior editorial positions at Runner’s World and Running Times.
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