To be a marathon runner you must be in incredible shape, have outstanding endurance and a positive mental strength. Without any of these three features, it isn’t possible to run the long distance necessary to complete the marathon. However, if running is your life, you’re probably looking for that next challenge right now, so check out there six other marathons to try before you die;
Paris Marathon – 6 April 2014
Another of Europe’s beautiful marathon sites is the Paris France Marathon which sets off from the Champs-Élysées. This is one of the world’s great cities, so why not take a jogging tour of the city beforehand? The marathon runs through just about all the high points of the city with the Eiffel Tower constantly on the skyline, and finishes up at Foch Avenue; just watch out for the worn cobblestone at the beginning of the race. The race was first held in 1896 although only started running annually in 1976. And be aware that there is a time limit in place of 5 hours and 40 minutes!
Boston Marathon – 21 April 2014
The Boston Marathon is one of the best known marathons in the world and has been around since 1897. There are strict qualifying standards, so make sure to check out everything you need to accomplish in order to make it onto the start list. The majority of the run is on a slight decline, so you may find it slightly easier to accomplish than other races, but the April based marathon is one of the best to check out.
New York City Marathon – 3 November 2013
This is probably the second most famous marathon and should be on your hotlist. You start at the Verrazano Bridge in NYC USA and finish up through Central Park. Just make sure to save a bit in your tank for the park, as there are some hills. This race takes place during November, so get training now!
Honolulu Marathon – 8 December 2013
The last listing from the United States isn’t on the mainland, but instead in Honolulu in Hawaii. So, if you are looking for an excuse to get out of the cold weather during December, check out this marathon, with over 25,000 runners, just make sure to wake up early, as the race starts at 5am. With any luck you’ll be finished in time for brunch!
Berlin Marathon – 29 September 2013
This is one of the great marathon sites in the world, as you can take in incredible historic sights throughout your run, as the route goes straight through the city of Berlin. Thankfully, outside of two miles or so, the entire race is flat. It first took place in 1974 and runs between the Brandenburg Gate and Victory Column in Berlin.
Stockholm Marathon – 31 May 2014
Outside of the Boston Marathon, this is the smallest on the list as entrants are capped at 21,000. The race kicks off with two laps around Stockholm city itself; just beware of the steep incline on the first bridge, this can be a bit daunting, especially the second time around. The race traverses the city which stands on fourteen islands and finishes up inside the 1912 Olympic Stadium.
