Running Events and Routes

Ten US marathons suited to a first timer, chosen for flat courses and forgiving conditions, with what to know before you enter one.

Walking a marathon takes about 6 to 8 hours, which is inside most race cutoffs. What the time depends on, whether it is allowed, and how to train.

The Color Run began in Phoenix in 2011 with about 6,000 runners, borrowing its colors from Holi. How it grew into the largest race series in the country.

A sub 3 hour marathon means holding 6:52 per mile for the full 26.2. The pace targets, the sessions behind them, and a plan to get there.

Twelve race formats, from the 1 mile and 5K up to the marathon, plus obstacle races and untimed fun runs. Which suits you, and how much training each needs.

A Spartan Super takes most people a few hours, and the range is wide. What the distance and obstacles involve, and whether a beginner can finish one.

Spartan is timed and competitive. Tough Mudder is team based and untimed. Here is the full comparison, plus which one fits you.

The Spartan Ultra is 31 miles and 60 obstacles, the hardest race in the series. What it involves, how to prepare, and where it sits among the others.

Finishing a half marathon untrained is possible, and you will walk much of it. How to get round safely, what to expect, and the risks of trying.

A 5K is timed and raced. A fun run is untimed and social, often with walkers and strollers. What separates them, and which one suits you.