A marathon is exactly 26.2 miles, which is equivalent to 42.195 kilometers (or 26 miles and 385 yards). This distance is standardized for all official marathon races worldwide
. The specific length of 26.2 miles was established based on the 1908 London Olympic marathon route, which started at Windsor Castle and finished in front of the Royal Box at White City Stadium. This unusual distance was later adopted officially by the International Amateur Athletic Federation (IAAF) in 1921
. In summary:
- Marathon distance: 26.2 miles / 42.195 kilometers
- Standardized since 1921, based on the 1908 Olympic course
This distance has remained consistent for over a century and is the benchmark for marathon running events globally.
