Running a marathon is a huge accomplishment, it marks a significant milestone in your running journey. A training plan is the first step to getting you prepared and ready for this challenge.
A generic free plan is a good starting point to structure your training but doesn’t give you everything you need. Our expert running coaches can set you up for success with a personalised training plan and ongoing guidance.
To run your marathon safely and on top form, consider everything that makes up your training. A free training plan doesn’t include information about warm-ups, cool-downs, strength work, conditioning, technique, nutrition, and overcoming mental barriers.
A dedicated running coach can provide all the support you need to make the most of your training and see the best results on race day.
Our free marathon running training plans cover 26 weeks of training up to race day. The plan you choose will depend on your fitness levels and running abilities.
This plan is for someone who runs 2 to 3 times a week and can run 60 minutes without walking. It focuses on completing longer runs rather than increasing speed.
The plan is based on 'time on feet' instead of weekly mileage, aiming for a marathon finish time of over 4 hours.
This plan suits you if you run 3 to 4 times weekly, with a long run of 11 to 12 miles and weekly interval training.
It aims for a 3.5 to 4-hour marathon finish, featuring 4 runs per week, averaging 34 miles.
This plan is for runners with at least 2 years of experience who have already completed at least a half marathon.
You typically run 4 days a week, averaging 34 miles, with a long run of 11 to 12 miles, and 1 or 2 harder sessions.
The plan includes 5 to 6 runs per week, averaging 49 miles, and aiming for a 3-hour marathon finish time.
These free plans cover different running abilities but they can’t possibly cater to everyone. Each runner has a unique running history, personal commitments, and preferred training style.
We always recommend choosing a personalised running plan tailored to you around your schedule. A custom plan from our expert running coaches will help you stay on track, avoid injury, and reach your goals.
Alexa wrote a personalised marathon training plan for me which covered all the things that were important to me, building in time out when I was on holiday, and making sure I could fit everything into my schedule.
The training was challenging but having this programme allowed me to get everything in the diary and feel organised and strong and ready for race day.
Kate October 2024
Having given up on running for a bit, I was just after a little bit of guidance for a race that I'd signed up for. The plan was perfect and just what I needed. Having had a phone call to discuss what I'd been doing, so that the plan was catered to me and my abilities rather than being a generic 'one size fits all' kind of plan. I'd recommend to anyone looking for a one off plan or coaching!
Hayley, September 2024
In June 2023, I began working with Alexa. At that time, I struggled to run for 10 minutes without stopping. Alexa's programs provided me with a realistic training schedule that accommodated my busy life and demanding job. Thanks to Alexa's support and guidance, I was able to successfully complete my first 10k race in 1 hour and 2 minutes. Couldn't have done it without you, Alexa.
Sam, November 2023
Kate is Fantastic! I struggled to run any distance before signing up with her in January, but following her plan got me through the London marathon yesterday! I would highly recommend her to everyone taking on a running goal! I will sure to be back once I’ve signed up for my next one. Thank you Kate!
Hayley, April 2024
I cannot recommend We Run enough! I recently completed the Royal Parks Half Marathon 2024, for which I signed up to run earlier this year, and from my initial enquiry up until race day, the entire process was extremely efficient.
I was paired with Coach Lee and from the outset, he was incredibly helpful!
By virtue of his unwavering mentorship, I was able to achieve my goal of completing my first ever half marathon in under 2 hours.
Throughout the entire training process, Coach Lee was ready and willing to answer any question I had and he supported me through every injury and mental block I encountered - I would have never been able to do any of this without him!
Neel, November 2024
A personalised marathon plan that isnt off the shelf. Amazing value and very simple to follow. The initial chat through really helped to make sure the plan was bespoke for me and my running needs.
Customer, April 2024
I just wanted to send a message of appreciation for my training plan. In September 2023, I got in touch asking for a plan that would get me under 4 hours for a marathon.
Kate did a zoom call with me and asked questions about my current running habits and my lifestyle. We discussed nutrition as well. When looking at the plan, she had accommodated everything I had said. I thoroughly enjoyed using my plan daily and knowing it had been personalised to my life really made me feel like it was achievable. It kept me accountable for my runs.
I got through my marathon @ 03:58:34 so perfectly under 4 hours. I couldn’t have done it without the plan. I only missed one run my whole plan and I think that is a testament to how perfectly pitched it was for me.
Hannah, April 2024
Noemie was a great coach and helped me progress towards and achieve my 3hour marathon goal. She was super helpful with training plans and advice. I would definitely recommend!!
Paul, April 2024
Graeme has been a great help. My goal was to go sub 90 minutes at a half marathon and although I'd gone close before I knew to find that extra 1% I'd need some pro help.
He kept me motivated and came up with a training schedule to push me but not push me too much to aggravate my sore Achilles. I ended up going sub 90 and without Graeme's help that wouldn't have happened.
Matthew, November 2023
Kate coached me through training for my first marathon in Berlin. The training was tailored to my fitness, schedule, goals and preferences (i.e. Working in KM's, needing specific pace targets etc) following our first consultation.
When I had to move runs due to work or illness Kate was happy to reshuffle and adapt the plan to keep me on track.
I wouldn't hesitate to work with Kate again for my next challenge.
David, October 2023
Alexa has provided me with 3 training plans so far - two for half marathons and one for my first full marathon. She is brilliant and so knowledgeable! She has handy tips and lots of advice and was always happy to answer any additional queries as I went along.
Following her plans has kept me disciplined and fully ready for each race - I had completely underestimated the importance of a good training plan and I even finished each race in a time I hadn't thought was possible!
Sian, April 2023
Getting the right training plan is just one part of your marathon preparation. We have a range of coaching options to help you with every aspect of your training including form analysis, recovery, and nutrition.
Get personalised coaching from a running expert to guide you through your marathon training plan.
Start your training with an in-depth technique analysis to help you run on top form and avoid injuries.
Get remote coaching sessions with an expert running coach tailored to your training requirements.
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