A marathon is 42.195km (often rounded to 42.2km).

Most people need 12–20 weeks to train for a marathon, depending on your current fitness, running experience, and goal time.

Finish times vary widely, but most runners complete a marathon in 4–5 hours. Professional level runners finish in just over 2 hours, while walkers or first-timers may take 6 hours or more.

Most runners take around 50,000–60,000 steps to complete a marathon, depending on height, stride length, and running style.

An ultra marathon is any race that’s longer than a marathon - meaning anything over 42.195km (42.2km).

A good marathon time depends on your experience and goals, but for most runners a “good” time is typically under 4 hours - with 3–3:30 considered very strong and sub-3 elite-level.

Most runners need 6–10 gels for a marathon, depending on how long you’ll be running and how many carbs you’re aiming for per hour.

• Shorts/tights with pockets: The simplest option - stash gels in side or back pockets for easy access.
• Running belt: Holds multiple gels (and sometimes a small bottle) without bouncing too much.
• Hydration vest: Great for longer races or if you want to carry fluids + extra fuel, but can feel warm/bulky.
• Handheld bottle with storage: Useful if you like sipping regularly and want a small pocket for gels.
• Pinned gel loops / race bib belt: Some bib belts have gel holders so you can grab fuel quickly without digging around.