

Suunto Blog

How to Calculate Maximum Heart Rate
Maximum heart rate (HRmax) is the highest number of beats per minute your heart reaches during hard exercise. It helps define your training zones and intensity levels.
Knowing your HRmax helps control workouts, prevent overtraining, and track improvements. It also supports heart health and fitness planning.
HRmax is a key number in any serious training plan.
Content Table:
Understanding Basic Heart Rate Concepts
Methods for Calculating Maximum Heart Rate
How to Use Your Maximum Heart Rate
Monitoring and Tracking Your Heart Rate
Factors Affecting Maximum Heart Rate
Common Questions and Safety Tips
Conclusion
Understanding Basic Heart Rate Concepts
Resting heart rate is your heart rate when you're calm and inactive. Most adults have a resting heart rate between 60 and 100 beats per minute.
Maximum heart rate (HRmax) is the highest your heart rate goes during intense activity. It helps set safe and effective training limits.
Target heart rate zones are ranges based on your HRmax. These zones guide how hard you should train, depending on your fitness goals. Lower zones help with endurance and recovery. Higher zones help build speed and strength.
Several factors affect heart rate. These include age, fitness level, health conditions, and medications. For example, beta-blockers can lower both resting and maximum heart rate. Altitude and temperature can also raise your heart rate during activity.
Tracking heart rate helps you adjust effort, stay safe, and improve over time.
Methods for Calculating Maximum Heart Rate
Here are some common methods for calculating maximum heart rate:
1. Traditional Formula: 220 − Age
The classic formula (220 minus your age) is simple and widely used.
However, it has significant accuracy issues: studies report errors of ±10–12 beats per minute and population-wide biases.
Originally based on limited data (≈11 small studies, many middle-aged or with heart disease), its value lies in offering an instant estimate when more precise methods aren’t feasible.
2. Alternative Formulas
For improved accuracy, especially across different age groups and fitness levels, consider these research-backed equations:
HUNT (Nes et al., 2013): HRmax = 211 − (0.64 × age) — Standard error ≈ 11 bpm.
Tanaka (Tanaka et al., 2001): HRmax = 208 − (0.7 × age) — Derived from meta-analysis (~18,700 subjects), accuracy ~±10 bpm.
Gulati (2010, women only): 206 − (0.88 × age) — Adjusts for sex-specific differences.
Performance note: Fox and Tanaka formulas tend to overestimate in women (~5 bpm) and underestimate in men (~3 bpm) in some athletic groups. Nonlinear or machine-learning models slightly outperform linear formulas but still carry ±11 bpm errors.
3. Lab Testing (Exercise Stress Test)
The most accurate way to determine HRmax: a supervised maximal test with ECG monitoring (e.g., treadmill, cycling).
Often used in clinical settings and athlete assessment, this method measures real-time cardiac response to full exertion.
Despite being precise (±2 bpm accuracy), it requires specialized equipment and medical oversight.
How to Use Your Maximum Heart Rate
1. Set Precise Target Zones
Health organizations recommend training within specific zones of HRmax: 50–70 % for moderate effort and 70–85 % for vigorous effort. These ranges enhance cardiovascular health and endurance.
For example, a 40‑year‑old with HRmax ≈ 180 bpm should aim for 90–126 bpm in moderate sessions and 126–153 bpm in vigorous workouts.
According to heart.org, here is the general guide by age:
Age
Target Heart Rate Zone 50%–85%
Average Maximum HRmax
20
100–170 bpm
200 bpm
30
95–162 bpm
190 bpm
35
93–157 bpm
185 bpm
40
90–153 bpm
180 bpm
45
88–149 bpm
175 bpm
50
85–145 bpm
170 bpm
55
83–140 bpm
165 bpm
60
80–136 bpm
160 bpm
65
78–132 bpm
155 bpm
70
75–128 bpm
150 bpm
75
73–123 bpm
145 bpm
80
70–119 bpm
140 bpm
85
68–113 bpm
135 bpm
90
65–111 bpm
130 bpm
2. Improve Accuracy with Heart Rate Reserve (HRR)
The HRR method (Karvonen formula) refines target zones by including resting heart rate (RHR):
HRR = HRmax – RHR
Target HR = (HRR × % intensity) + RHR
For example, HRmax = 180 bpm and RHR = 60 bpm yields HRR = 120 bpm. At 70 % effort: (120 × 0.7) + 60 = 144 bpm. This method aligns better with individual fitness than %HRmax alone.
3. Why HRR Matters
HRR correlates with cardiovascular fitness—higher HRR often reflects greater fitness. Studies link low HRR to increased health risks, underscoring HRR’s value in training as well as for rehab and clinical patients.
4. Alternative Checks
If you can't wear a device, use subjective tests like the “talk test” or Borg scale. Still, HRR gives a quantifiable edge.
Monitoring and Tracking Your Heart Rate
You can track heart rate manually or with a device.
Manual check:
Use your fingers to find your pulse on the wrist or neck. Count the beats for 15 seconds. Multiply by 4 to get beats per minute. This works at rest, but it's not reliable during exercise.
Wearable tracking:
Devices like watches and chest straps give continuous heart rate data. These are better for workouts and daily trends.
The Suunto Race S uses wrist-based sensors to track your heart rate in real time—even in cold weather or during intense movement. It also stores long-term data, so you can see trends, effort levels, and recovery patterns.
The Race S uses optical sensors to measure heart rate at the wrist without a chest strap. It works reliably even in cold or high-motion conditions like trail runs or interval workouts. For the most accurate results, especially during intense training or in extreme weather, athletes can pair it with the Suunto Smart Sensor chest strap.
The device logs 24-minute average heart rate trends and shows a 12-hour history through its HR widget. This lets you track recovery, monitor stress, or spot elevated exertion over time.
When to check:
During warm-up
At peak effort
During cooldown
At rest (morning RHR)
Tracking helps you stay in the right zone and avoid overtraining.
Factors Affecting Maximum Heart Rate
Several factors influence your HRmax:
Age
Age is the strongest predictor of HRmax, accounting for approximately 70–80% of its variance. HRmax generally declines with age, and this decline accelerates in older populations.
Sex
While men and women see similar age-related drops in HRmax, women may maintain slightly higher HRmax levels into midlife.
Fitness Level & Training Status
Regular endurance training can shift your heart-rate response: some athletes reach higher peak heart rates, while others maintain output with lower rates, underlining that HRmax is influenced not just by age but also by fitness status.
Genetics
Genetics play a key role in cardiovascular capacity. Genetic variation may account for 25–65% of differences in cardiorespiratory fitness, including HRmax.
Health & Medications
Conditions like heart disease and medications such as beta-blockers reduce both resting and maximum heart rate, so always consult a healthcare professional when interpreting HRmax data.
Environment: Heat & Altitude
Heat and humidity trigger cardiovascular drift — heart rate increases over time despite stable effort, due to dehydration and increased blood flow to the skin. High-altitude exercise raises heart rate by 10–30% to maintain oxygen delivery.
Tracking changes over time helps you understand how these factors affect your training.
Common Questions and Safety Tips
Q: Are HRmax formulas accurate for everyone?
A: No. Most formulas give estimates. They may not work well for older adults, highly trained athletes, or those with health issues. Lab testing or wearable tracking provides better insight.
Q: What if you take heart medication?
A: Beta-blockers and similar drugs lower your heart rate. Formulas may give results that are too high. Ask your doctor before using HRmax for training.
Q: When should you stop exercising?
A: Stop right away if you feel:
Chest pain
Dizziness
Severe shortness of breath
Faintness
These are signs you may be overdoing it. Always listen to your body.
Conclusion
Understanding your maximum heart rate helps you train with purpose and track progress over time. It guides how hard to push and when to recover. Whether you’re hiking, running, or cross-training, using a device like the Suunto Race S makes heart rate monitoring simple and precise.

Crush 13.1 Miles with This 16-Week Half Marathon Training Schedule
Meet Sarah.
She’s a busy 32-year-old mom of two who never thought she could run more than a mile. But with a little determination, a good pair of shoes, and a solid 16-week half-marathon training schedule, she went from tired walks to crossing her first finish line with a huge smile.
If Sarah can do it, you can too.
This guide is made just for beginners who want to feel strong, confident, and ready to crush 13.1 miles, even if you're starting from scratch.
1) 16-Week half-marathon training plan for beginners (With PDF)
Let’s break it down. This 16-week beginner half marathon training plan is designed to ease you into running without overwhelm. You'll train 4 days a week with plenty of rest and flexibility.
Here’s a complete plan:
Week
Sunday (Long Run)
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Week 1
3 Miles
2 Miles Easy
Rest Day
2 Miles Easy
Walk/Bike – 30 mins
Rest Day
2 Miles Easy
Week 2
4 Miles
2 Miles
Cross-Train
2 Miles
Rest Day
3 Miles Easy
Walk or Yoga
Week 3
5 Miles
2 Miles
Rest Day
3 Miles
Fartlek – 20 mins (easy/hard)
2 Miles Easy
Stretch + Core Work
Week 4
6 Miles
Cross-Train
3 Miles
Hill Repeats (5x short hills)
Rest Day
3 Miles Easy
Yoga or Walk
Week 5
7 Miles
3 Miles
Cross-Train
Rest Day
3 Miles Tempo
Rest Day
3 Miles Easy
Week 6
8 Miles
3 Miles
4 Miles
Cross-Train
Tempo Run – 30 mins
Rest Day
3 Miles Easy
Week 7
9 Miles
3 Miles
4 Miles
Walk or Swim – 30 mins
Rest Day
4 Miles Easy
Strength & Core
Week 8
6 Miles (Cutback)
2 Miles
3 Miles
Cross-Train
Easy Run – 30 mins
Rest Day
2 Miles Recovery
Week 9
10 Miles
3 Miles
Hill Repeats
4 Miles
Rest Day
3 Miles Easy
Core & Stretch
Week 10
11 Miles
4 Miles
Tempo – 25 mins
Rest Day
3 Miles
Walk or Swim
3 Miles Easy
Week 11
8 Miles (Cutback)
Cross-Train
3 Miles
3 Miles Easy
Pace Run (2M at race pace)
Rest Day
2 Miles Jog
Week 12
12 Miles
3 Miles
5 Miles
Cross-Train
2 Miles Jog
Rest Day
3 Miles Easy
Week 13
10 Miles
3 Miles
Easy Run – 25 mins
Strength + Core
Short Hills (6x60sec)
Rest Day
3 Miles Easy
Week 14
11 Miles
Cross-Train
3 Miles
3 Miles Easy
Rest Day
3 Miles Easy
Walk or Recovery
Week 15
8 Miles (Taper)
2 Miles
2 Miles Jog
Rest Day
Easy Run – 20 mins
Yoga or Stretch
2 Miles Easy
Week 16
Race Day
Walk or Stretch
2 Miles Easy
Rest Day
Shakeout Run – 15 mins
Rest Day
Rest Day
Each week, you'll slowly increase your long run and comfort level. The beauty of this half-marathon training plan for beginners 16 weeks, is that it's progressive and forgiving.
Pro Tip: Get this 16-week half-marathon training plan PDF beginner printed and keep it on your fridge or phone.
2) Workout Types in Half Marathon Training Plan for Beginners in 16 Weeks
Each type of workout in this half-marathon training plan 16 weeks beginners has a job to do:
· Easy Runs: Build your cardio base without pushing too hard
· Long Runs: Train your legs and mind to handle distance
· Pace Runs: Get comfortable with your goal pace
· Cross-Training: Adds variety and prevents burnout
You might ask, is 16 weeks enough to train for a half marathon? Absolutely. For beginners, it's the sweet spot. Long enough to avoid injury, short enough to stay motivated.
Who is this for?
· Brand new runners
· Casual joggers ready for a new challenge
· Anyone returning after time off
This 16-week half-marathon training plan for beginners works especially well if you enjoy structure and don’t want to guess what to do next.
3) Tricks When Using a 16-Week Half Marathon Training Plan for Beginners
Getting through 16 weeks isn’t just about running; it’s about mindset, tools, and balance. Here are some real-life tips to help:
✅ Do:
· Stick to the plan, even when motivation dips
· Eat well and sleep enough
· Track your runs and moods
· Celebrate little wins (first 5 miles? Big deal)
❌ Don’t:
· Skip warmups or cool-downs
· Push through pain (rest if you're hurting)
· Obsess over speed or distance too early
· Compare yourself to marathon influencers
Must-Have Tool – Suunto Run
If you want a smart buddy that tells you when to push and when to rest, Suunto Run is it. More than just a watch, it gives live feedback, advanced running data, posture insights, and lets you know when your body is ready for the next run.
Reddit runners love it. One user said: "Suunto Run saved me from overtraining. It literally told me to chill, and I avoided injury."
It charges in 60 minutes, lasts 8 days, and powers 20+ hours of high-performance tracking. Plus, it’s cheaper than many of its competitors.
You can even run with music offline. No phone needed.
So, if you’re serious about getting the most from this half marathon 16 week training plan for beginners, give Suunto Run a shot.
Final Words
Sarah made it to the finish line. So can you.
This half marathon training for beginners 16 weeks plan isn’t about speed or fancy gear. It’s about commitment, steady progress, and finding joy in the journey.
Are you ready to step into the runner's world with a smile, a solid plan, and a finish line waiting for you?
Start your half marathon training plan beginner 16 weeks today.
Let's make it happen. Let's run!

From 13.1 to 26.2: A Half Marathon to Marathon Training Plan
If you’ve conquered 13.1 miles, you’re already halfway to doing something extraordinary. Transitioning from a half-marathon to marathon training plan might sound daunting initially, but it’s a natural next step for runners who are ready to challenge their limits. With the right mindset, strategy, and tools, turning your training from a half-marathon to a marathon plan is a victory that is absolutely within reach.
1. Can I run a marathon if I can run a half-marathon?
2. How long does it take from half-marathon to marathon training?
3. How do you convert from half-marathon to marathon training plan?
4. Half-marathon to marathon training plan
1) Can I run a marathon if I can run a half-marathon?
Yes. The leap from a half-marathon to a marathon plan is rather significant and recommendable. The journey from half marathon to full marathon plan is much shorter than it seems, especially with a solid half marathon to marathon training plan. But your current fitness can impact. Prepare your body and mind for handling serious training volume now!
2) How long does it take from half-marathon to marathon training?
A typical half-marathon to marathon training plan spans around 12-18 weeks, based on your current mileage as well as goals.
➔ Typical Half-Marathon to Marathon Training Timeline:
● 12 weeks are ideal for runners who’ve kept up consistent running and long runs around 8-10 miles post-race.
● 14-16 weeks are great for those returning from a break or even looking to gradually increase mileage.
● 18 weeks or more are recommended for runners with lower base mileage or even aiming for performance like time goals.
3) How do you convert from half-marathon to marathon training plan?
Many structured programs like Jack Daniel’s formula or even Hal Higdon’s training are specifically designed for runners.
● Long runs get longer as you build up from 10-12 miles and transition to 18-20 miles on peak weeks.
● Mileage volume increases gradually as weekly distance goes from approximately 25 miles to 35 and even 45 miles.
Leaping ½ marathon to marathon training plan may sound intimidating, but if you already have a half marathon experience, a well-designed half-marathon to marathon training plan is all about strategic adjustments. Here are some more tips below.
Increase Your Long Run Gradually
While you’ve likely capped your longest run at 10-12 miles during half-marathon training, marathon prep will require you to stretch that to 18-20 miles over time.
· Add 1-2 miles per week to your long run, maxing out at 20 miles about 3-4 weeks before the race.
· Every 3rd or 4th week, dial back the mileage to allow for recovery, called a cutback week.
Prioritize Recovery Like a Pro
Recovery is where gains are made, not just in training volume. A successful half-marathon to marathon training plan always includes rest.
· Take at least one full rest day per week.
· Use active recovery like walking, light cycling, or even yoga on cross-training days.
Add Strength Training to Support Distance Running
Running alone isn’t enough, as your hamstrings, hips, core, and glutes are your running system. Strength training helps prevent injury as well as improve endurance.
· Twice a week, 20-30 minutes for each session
· Focus on compound exercises like deadlifts, lunges, planks, glute bridges, or even calf raises
4) Half-marathon to marathon training plan
I have an 18-week half-marathon to marathon training plan. It’s built for beginner and intermediate runners who have recently completed a half marathon and are now ready to take on the challenge of a full marathon. If you want to train for a shorter period, you can check out the 16-week marathon training plan, or adjust your training schedule based on the following schedule:
Weeks 1-8: Foundation and Half Marathon to Marathon Plan Milestone
Week
Mon
Tue
Wed
Thu
Fri
Sat (Long Run)
Sun (Cross Training)
1
Rest
3 miles
3 miles
3 miles
Rest
6 miles
45-min cycling or walk
2
Rest
3 miles
3 miles
3 miles
Rest
7 miles
1-hour yoga or swim
3
Rest
3 miles
4 miles
3 miles
Rest
8 miles
45-min brisk walk
4
Rest
3 miles
4 miles
3 miles
Rest
9 miles
1-hour cross workout
5
Rest
4 miles
4 miles
3 miles
Rest
10 miles
1-hour low-impact cardio
6
Rest
4 miles
5 miles
3 miles
Rest
7 miles
(cutback)
45-min easy cycling
7
Rest
4 miles
6 miles
4 miles
Rest
11 miles
1-hour swim
8
Rest
3 miles
3 miles
3 miles
Rest
Half marathon
Recovery walk
Week 9-15: Mileage Peak and Half Marathon to Marathon Training
Week
Mon
Tue
Wed
Thu
Fri
Sat (Long Run)
Sun (Cross Training)
9
Rest
4 miles
5 miles
4 miles
Rest
10 miles
1-hour cross activity
10
Rest
4 miles
6 miles
4 miles
Rest
12 miles
1-hour yoga/ stretching
11
Rest
5 miles
7 miles
5 miles
Rest
16 miles
1-hour easy swim
12
Rest
4 miles
5 miles
5 miles
Rest
12 miles (stepback)
1-hour bike ride
13
Rest
5 miles
8 miles
5 miles
Rest
18 miles
1-hour slow hike
14
Rest
5 miles
5 miles
5 miles
Rest
14 miles
1-hour light cardio
15
Rest
5 miles
9 miles
5 miles
Rest
20 miles
1-Hour
recovery stretch
Week 16-18: Race Day of Your Half Marathon to Marathon Plan
Week
Mon
Tue
Wed
Thu
Fri
Sat (Long Run)
Sun (Cross Training)
16
Rest
4 miles
Rest
4 miles
Rest
12 miles
1-hour recovery walk
17
Rest
3 miles
Rest
3 miles
Rest
8 miles
45-min walk
18
Rest
2 miles
Rest
2 miles
Rest
Marathon
Rest
Suunto Run: A professional watch to marathon
For runners following a structured half-marathon to marathon training schedule, having a tool that not only tracks your pace but also analyzes your recovery and supports long efforts with real-time feedback is essential. The Suunto Run GPS watch was built with endurance athletes in mind. It’s more than a tracker, but a performance partner.
➔ What Real Runners Say
Here’s what real runners from Reddit’s communities are saying after using Suunto Run.
● The watch is lightweight and comfortable to wear. The GPS accuracy is excellent, the best of any watch I’ve ever owned. – Sevenslipperyseals
● This is my first Suunto watch, and all I have to say is it’s amazing. – Toronto1976reddit
● For $250, the Suunto Run seems like a great deal with its AMOLED display and GPS. I think it’s worth considering. – matt_legrand
➔ What can Suunto Run do for Half Marathon to Marathon Training Progression
Real-time Half Marathon to Marathon Training Plan Feedback: Race time predictions for 5K, 10K, Half and Full Marathon, based on your VO2 max and past run performance.
Intelligent Recovery Scoring for Your Half-Marathon to Marathon Training Schedule: After each run, Suunto Run evaluates your Training Stress Score (TSS) and Recovery Time. You can use this to plan easier days and avoid overtraining.
Pro-Level Tuning from Metrics for Your Half-Marathon to Marathon Training Plan: Running Power measured from the wrist. Vertical oscillation and Ground Contact Time. Cadence and stride length. Posture Monitoring.
Battery Life Built for Race Day: Fully charged within 60 minutes. 20+ hours of GPS recording in full performance mode. Up to 8 days in regular training mode.
Running a marathon is more than just logging miles. It’s about leveling up. Even if it’s a half-marathon-to-marathon-in-12-weeks strategy or transitioning to a half-marathon-to-marathon training schedule, your journey depends on a strong plan. From structured weekly schedules to advanced tech like the Suunto Run, everything you need is within reach.
So, lace up, plan smart, and go the full distance of your half-marathon to full-marathon training plan. Because your next finish line isn’t the end, it’s the start of what you’re truly capable of.

Lavaredo Ultra Trail by UTMB
We are ready - are you?
The 18th edition of the Lavaredo Ultra Trail by UTMB features a particularly challenging course, with a total distance of 120 km and 5,800 meters of elevation gain. The maximum race time is 30 hours, starting from Cortina.
Once again this year, all races are fully booked across the event.
Each day is dedicated to a different distance, creating a full schedule of daily events — with the exception of 27 June, when both the longest race (120 km) and the intermediate race (50 km) will take place:
25 June 2025: Lavaredo 10K – 10 km – elevation gain 200 m⁺
26 June 2025: Lavaredo 20K – 20 km – elevation gain 1,000 m⁺
27 June 2025: Lavaredo 50K – 50 km – elevation gain 2,600 m⁺
28 June 2025: Lavaredo 100K – 100 km – elevation gain 4,600 m⁺
27 June 2025: Lavaredo 120K – 120 km – elevation gain 5,800 m⁺
Many of our Suunto athletes are ready to give it their all:
Ugo Ferrari
Nadir Maguet
Florian Olivier
Claudia Tremps
Martina Valmassoi
Courtney Dauwalter
Alyssa Amos Clark
Katarzyna Wilk
Andreas Reiterer
Tony McCann
Suunto will be present in the village with a stand where our team will be happy to share the latest brand news and showcase our products.
But that's not all — take part in the HOP HOP RUN in collaboration with Näak and Buff. Experience the thrill of running 8 km through the beautiful Dolomites and try one of our sports watches during the run!
We look forward to seeing you on Friday, 27 June at 10:00 AM at the Suunto stand at the UTMB Expo / Ice Skating Stadium – Cortina.
👉 Register now and book your unique opportunity to test one of our sportwatches during the run!
Register

Marathon training plans 16 weeks
Are you planning to run a full marathon but don’t have enough time? We understand you. And, the idea of completing the course in 16 weeks is surely daunting, but you don’t have to stress. This article is a complete solution for all of your worries. Yes, we will walk you through the best 16-week marathon training schedule and help you prepare to compete with confidence. So, let’s dive in!
1. Can I train for a marathon in 16 weeks?
2. What types of training are included in a marathon training program in 16 weeks?
3. 16-week marathon training schedule
1) Can I train for a marathon in 16 weeks?
If you are wondering, is 16 weeks enough to train for a marathon? Yes, the marathon training in 16 weeks is an enough time period for marathoners to build endurance and confidence. And you know, if someone enjoys running, then there is a guarantee that 16 weeks are enough.
Generally speaking, runners usually take anywhere from 12 to 20 weeks to prepare, so the 16-week duration will surely come in handy for most runners. It is not too long or too short, making it perfect for someone just starting with running.
But is this plan for everyone? Not exactly. If you are new to running, a longer plan or a shorter race, such as a 10K or half marathon, may be more suitable. But if you can already run 5 to 10 kilometres a few times a week, this 16 week marathon training schedule can help you prepare safely.
➔ This plan is designed for:
● Runners who can jog for at least 30 minutes nonstop.
● People are looking for moderate training challenges to test their fitness level.
● Participants who may have completed shorter races and are ready for the full marathon.
2) What types of training are included in a marathon training program in 16 weeks?
A good marathon training program 16 week should cover more than just running. Planning miles is not enough, your body demands a variety of workouts for complete preparation for the 42.195 kilometres. To make it clear on everything, there are a few main types of training in a marathon training 16 week plan, 16 weeks, beginner to advanced runners can use:
i) Easy Runs
These runs are performed at your comfort level, where you can talk effortlessly, which is relaxing. They aid in the building of your aerobic base and improve recovery. Well, you are not fatigued. Easy runs constitute the majority of your weekly mileage.
ii) Long Runs
This is the most important part of your plan. Long runs enhance your endurance and train your body to use fat for fuel. They gradually build from shorter distances to around 20 miles or more before tapering.
iii) Tempo Runs (Threshold Runs)
Tempo runs are performed at a “comfortably hard” pace: faster than easy runs but not a full sprint. Basically these are training runs. They make you better at lactate threshold, so you can run faster for longer and without fatigue.
iv) Interval Workouts (Speed Work)
Intervals are short, fast repeats usually with rest between (like 400m or 800m repeats). Apart from this, these extremely intense sessions also train your heart and lungs to function more efficiently. Intervals give a boost to your speed and improve running economy.
v) Hill Repeats
Running uphill strengthens your leg muscles, refines your running form, and adds to your power. Well, it makes you a stronger runner and helps prevent injuries.
vi) Recovery Runs
These are short and slow in duration. They promote blood circulation, encouraging faster recovery from intense workouts or long runs.
By integrating diverse types of runs, speed, endurance, and recovery are balanced during the training period. This variety keeps you motivated throughout your training to avoid burnout.
3) 16-week marathon training schedule
Next, I will provide you with a specific marathon training program for 16 weeks. In addition, the training plans for beginners and veterans should be different. Therefore, I have also provided training plan examples for runners of different levels. You can adjust the plan based on your actual situation.
Week
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Staurday
Sunday
1
Rest
3 mi easy
Cross-train
3 mi easy
Rest
3 mi easy
6-mile long run
2
Rest
3 mi easy
Cross-train
3 mi tempo
Rest
3 mi easy
7-mile long run
3
Rest
4 mi intervals (400m)
Cross-train
3 mi easy
Rest
4 mi easy
8-mile long run
4
Rest
3 mi easy
Cross-train
3 mi tempo
Rest
3 mi easy
5 mi step-back
5
Rest
4 mi intervals (800m)
Cross-train
4 mi easy
Rest
4 mi easy
9-mile long run
6
Rest
4 mi tempo
Cross-train
4 mi easy
Rest
4 mi easy
10-mile long run
7
Rest
5 mi intervals (1k)
Cross-train
4 mi tempo
Rest
4 mi easy
11-mile long run
8
Rest
4 mi easy
Cross-train
4 mi tempo
Rest
4 mi easy
7 mi step-back
9
Rest
5 mi intervals (1k)
Cross-train
5 mi tempo
Rest
5 mi easy
12-mile long run
10
Rest
5 mi tempo
Cross-train
5 mi easy
Rest
5 mi easy
14-mile long run
11
Rest
6 mi intervals (1k)
Cross-train
5 mi tempo
Rest
6 mi easy
16-mile long run
12
Rest
5 mi easy
Cross-train
5 mi tempo
Rest
5 mi easy
10 mi step-back
13
Rest
6 mi intervals (1k)
Cross-train
6 mi tempo
Rest
6 mi easy
18-mile long run
14
Rest
5 mi easy
Cross-train
5 mi tempo
Rest
5 mi easy
12 mi step-back
15
Rest
4 mi easy
Cross-train
3 mi tempo
Rest
4 mi easy
8-mile taper run
16
Rest
3 mi easy
Rest
2 mi easy
Rest
Rest
Race Day!
a) Beginner Marathon Training Plan (16 Weeks)
This marathon training 16 week is suited for new marathon runners. It focuses on avoiding injuries and making progress at a steady pace.
➔ Sample Weekly Routine:
● Monday: Rest
● Tuesday: 3-5 Miles Easy Run
● Wednesday: Cross-training (Bike, Swim, Walk)
● Thursday: 3-5 Miles Easy
● Friday: Rest
● Saturday: 3-4 Miles Easy
● Sunday: Long Run
Each fourth week is a 'step-back' week, which reduces mileage volume for recovery. Well, in the last three weeks, you taper to rest before race day. If you are a beginner, this marathon training plan 16 weeks beginner is ready to help you out
b) Intermediate Marathon Training Plan (16 Weeks)
These 16 weeks to train for a marathon intermediate, is best for runners with some experience, having completed a half marathon.
➔ Sample Weekly Routine:
● Monday: Rest or light yoga
● Tuesday: Tempo or interval run (e.g., 5x800m)
● Wednesday: 5-7 Miles Easy
● Thursday: 5-8 Miles Steady Pace
● Friday: Rest or cross-train.
● Saturday: 5-6 Miles easy or with strides.
● Sunday: Long run (starts at 8 miles and peaks at 20)
The plan introduces race pace runs and goal-specific training, helping you get stronger and faster.
c) Marathon Training Plan for professionals (16 Weeks)
Alright! Now, this plan is for runners looking to beat their personal best, like getting under a 4-hour marathon. It includes difficult speed work as well as high mileage.
➔ Sample Weekly Routine:
● Monday: Rest
● Tuesday: Speed intervals (e.g., 6x1 K at 5K pace)
● Wednesday: 6–10 miles aerobic run
● Thursday: Tempo or repeat hill workouts
● Friday: Recovery 4-6 miles
● Saturday: 8–10 miles. Some at race pace
● Sunday: Long run (starting at 10, then building up to 22 miles)
This marathon training plan 16 weeks advanced includes two weekly long runs of over 20 miles and mileage of 55-65 miles before a taper period.
To be frank, if you use a running watch while racing, it will help you out in many aspects. In a Reddit post, a user shared the experience of using a running watch. The author said that running has helped them a lot, splitting their miles. The author further shared that the watch is also helpful in evaluating your progress over time. You can read the comment below;
If you also want a professional running watch, then you can consider the Suunto Run. It’s great for runners as it offers:
● Real-time evaluation of physical strength change, helpful in achieving a person’s best mark.
● Analysing training subjects helps with recovery and progress, as does scientific guidance.
● Indications of body readiness for the subsequent workout are known as readiness.
● Posture and running power aids, as well as advanced metrics of the device, are offered.
● A battery lasting over 20 hours of continuous exercise at maximum performance has a 60-minute charge, sustaining up to 8 days.
●The offline music feature lets you listen to your favourite music without using your phone.
● Price more reasonable compared to other products on the market.
For further details, check the official website of Suunto Run. Get to know your running assistant now!

Powered by people, inspired by the trail: Introducing Suunto x PWRUP
Suunto teams up with Paris-based sports crew PWRUP for a bold new watch strap collaboration inspired by trail running, island adventures, and the power of community.
Born in Paris in 2019, PWRUP (short for Power Up) is more than a sports crew – it’s a movement. A vibrant collective of runners, cyclists, climbers, and explorers, PWRUP has trail running at its heart but thrives in all forms of motion. They’re known for blending lifestyle with performance, constantly pushing limits while building community through shared energy and unforgettable adventures.
Describing themselves as a family, PWRUP is as much about people as it is about sport. Whether they’re navigating the streets of Paris or volcanic trails on remote islands, they’re always seeking connection. “I started running in 2015 to stay in shape and quickly fell in love with the sport, discovering its deep impact on my creativity and mental clarity,” says Ruddy Trobrillants, one of the crew’s core members. “Whether navigating the streets of the city or the volcanoes of nearby islands, I’m always chasing connection, balance, and the next big adventure.”
That spirit – of movement, discovery, and energy – is now woven into a new collab between Suunto and PWRUP.
“The first time I ran with a Suunto watch was during Transvulcania, an intense Ultra marathon in La Palma, in 2022. This is definitely my favorite race, and it allowed me to discover this amazing island,” Ruddy says. “So, when I had the chance to work on a strap design with Suunto, I directly knew that I was going to mix PWRUP DNA and to pay homage to the Isla Bonita.”
The SUUNTO x PWRUP watch strap reflects the volcanic earth and rugged rock formations leading up to El Roque de los Muchachos at 2,400 meters above sea level.
Embedded with subtle particles to mirror the rocky trail and designed with layered PWRUP logos to symbolize the energy within you, the strap is more than gear – it’s a story. A reminder that the power is already inside you.
Photography by PWRUP – WORN WILD