Sports
Running & Marathon Quiz
Marathon world records, legendary runners, and the science of running — 50 questions.
Marathon world records, legendary runners, and the science of running — 50 questions.
The Running & Marathon Quiz is a free online quiz that tests your running knowledge with 50 questions about marathons, world records, and the science of running. The marathon distance of 26.2 miles was standardized in 1921, based on the 1908 London Olympics course.
Each round presents 10 randomized questions from a pool of 50, with four multiple-choice options and instant feedback after every answer. Your final score comes with a performance tier and shareable results.
You'll explore marathon history from the ancient Battle of Marathon to modern World Marathon Majors, world records from sprints to ultramarathons, the science behind VO2 max and runner's high, legendary athletes like Eliud Kipchoge and Kathrine Switzer, training concepts from couch to 5K to carb loading, and the gear innovations that have changed the sport.
The average marathon finishing time is around 4 hours 30 minutes. A sub-4-hour marathon is considered a solid achievement for recreational runners, while competitive amateur runners often aim for sub-3 hours. Elite runners finish in just over 2 hours.
The men's marathon world record is held by Kelvin Kiptum of Kenya, who ran 2:00:35 at the 2023 Chicago Marathon. The women's record is held by Ruth Chepngetich of Kenya, who ran 2:09:56 at the 2024 Chicago Marathon.
The 26.2-mile (42.195 km) distance was set at the 1908 London Olympics so the race could start at Windsor Castle and finish in front of the royal box at the Olympic stadium. This distance was standardized by the IAAF in 1921.
Last updated: March 2026