The Unbelievable Speed of the Sub-Two Hour Marathon

Imagine running a marathon, a 26.2-mile race, in under two hours. That pace is nothing short of extraordinary, and it requires an incredible amount of physical and mental fortitude. Let's dive into the unbelievable speed of the sub-two hour marathon and some insights from a former British Army soldier.

Understanding the Speed

To run a marathon in under two hours, you must maintain a steady average speed of slightly over 13 miles per hour. This pace is challenging even for seasoned runners and borderlines on the edge of human endurance.

For context, consider how fast that pace is. If you were to maintain a 13-minute mile pace, that would translate to a marathon time of just under 2 hours and 48 minutes. To get it down to two hours, you need to push your speed up to 12.9 minutes per mile, which is around a 13.1 miles per hour average speed.

Comparing to Regular Running Efforts

Have you tried running at anything close to that pace for any distance? If you're like most people, the answer is likely 'no.' For instance, the Basic Fitness Test conducted by the British Army included a 1.5-mile run, which had to be completed in 15 minutes. This equates to a 5-minute mile pace, which is still quite a feat. But to run a sub-two hour marathon, imagine completing 1.5 miles in 11 minutes. That's a 4-minute 40-second mile pace, which is significantly faster.

For a regular runner, this pace would be extremely tiring. After just 1.5 miles, you would feel utterly drained. The thought of maintaining that pace for 26 miles is almost inconceivable. However, when elite athletes train specifically for this goal, they can achieve it with remarkable precision and consistency.

Training and Preparation

Training for a sub-two hour marathon is no small feat. It requires specialized training, meticulous planning, and the elimination of other physical activities to focus entirely on marathon preparation. In the British Army's Basic Fitness Test, runners had to run in boots, trousers, and a PT vest. The first 1.5 miles were done as a squad and had to be completed in 15 minutes, followed by a 1.5-mile individual effort under 11 minutes. This is a far cry from the leisurely pace most runners would be comfortable with.

Elite marathon runners must dedicate themselves to the sport, often training 200-300 miles per week. They must also maintain a consistent diet and hydration schedule to ensure their bodies are fueled and recovered properly. The physical toll on the body is immense, requiring significant recovery time and patience.

Cherries Jubilee at the Finish Line

When elite runners complete a sub-two hour marathon, it's not just about the speed. It's about pushing the boundaries of human capability, achieving something that few have accomplished before. After crossing the finish line, these runners are often greeted with a celebration that's fitting for a major milestone. Some refer to this aspect as the 'Cherries Jubilee' of marathon running, signifying the celebration of this incredible achievement.

In conclusion, running a marathon in under two hours is a remarkable feat that showcases the pinnacle of athletic performance. It's a testament to years of dedication, training, and mental fortitude. The journey to achieve this is as much about mastering one's body as it is about setting a new record.

For those interested in pushing their own limits or inspired by the achievements of these elite athletes, now is a great time to start planning your next training schedule and setting ambitious goals. After all, every great journey begins with a single step.