Stavanger Marathon 2026 Training Plan – 13 Weeks to Race Day
13-week training plan for Stavanger Marathon 2026 (~29 August). Flat coastal course — ideal for a PR attempt. Weekly schedule with long runs, tempo sessions, and taper.
Stavanger: Norway's flattest marathon course
The coastal route with minimal elevation change makes Stavanger one of Norway's best venues for a PR attempt. Early September temperature is typically 14–19°C.
13-week training plan
Prerequisite: you can already run 15–18 km and train 3–4 times per week. Start week 1 in early June.
| Week | Date | Long run | Total volume | Quality session |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Jun 1–7 | 16 km | 38 km | Tempo 20 min |
| 2 | Jun 8–14 | 18 km | 42 km | 5×800m |
| 3 | Jun 15–21 | 20 km | 45 km | Tempo 25 min |
| 4 | Jun 22–28 | 14 km | 32 km | Recovery week |
| 5 | Jun 29–Jul 5 | 24 km | 52 km | 6×800m |
| 6 | Jul 6–12 | 26 km | 55 km | Tempo 30 min |
| 7 | Jul 13–19 | 28 km | 58 km | 8×800m |
| 8 | Jul 20–26 | 18 km | 40 km | Recovery week |
| 9 | Jul 27–Aug 2 | 30 km | 62 km | Tempo 35 min |
| 10 | Aug 3–9 | 32 km | 65 km | Peak week |
| 11 | Aug 10–16 | 22 km | 48 km | Taper begins |
| 12 | Aug 17–23 | 16 km | 36 km | Light tempo 20 min |
| 13 | Aug 24–29 | RACE DAY ~Aug 29 | 42.2 km | Enjoy the race! |
How to use this plan
- Long run at easy pace — conversational, not marathon pace
- Tempo sessions at 20–30 sec/km faster than marathon pace
- Recovery weeks (week 4, 8) are mandatory — do not skip them
- In addition to structured sessions: 2 easy runs of 8–12 km per week
- From week 9: start testing race-day gel/nutrition on long runs
- Stavanger course is flat — train easy, protect your legs
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FAQ
Is 13 weeks enough time to train for Stavanger Marathon?
Yes — 13 weeks is sufficient if you already run 3–4 times per week and can comfortably run 15–18 km. This plan builds on an existing base. If you are completely new to running, the half marathon is recommended instead — 13 weeks is too short to build a marathon base from scratch.
Why is Stavanger Marathon good for a PR attempt?
The Stavanger Marathon course is known as one of Norway's flattest marathon routes. Along the coast with minimal elevation change — optimal for even-pace running without the hills found in Oslo and Trondheim. Early September temperature in Stavanger is typically 14–19°C, near ideal for marathon performance. Many Norwegian runners save PR attempts for Stavanger for exactly these reasons.
What pace should my long runs be?
Long runs should be at an easy conversational pace — where you can speak in full sentences. For beginners this is typically 6:30–7:30 min/km. Long run pace is 30–60 seconds per km slower than marathon pace. Prioritise time on feet over speed. The Stavanger course is flat, but your body doesn't remember terrain — easy long runs protect against injury.
What should I eat during Stavanger Marathon?
Take on fuel from km 10 and every 30–45 minutes after that: energy gel, dates, or sports drink. Start early — don't wait until you feel tired. Drink water with every fuel intake. Most importantly: train with what you plan to use on race day. Check what the organiser provides at aid stations and supplement with what you've tested in training.
Are there gyms near the start in Stavanger?
Yes — Stavanger city centre has SATS, Evo Fitness, and Fresh Fitness centres. For runners staying in Stavanger city centre, SATS Standard gives access to training facilities and sauna for recovery. See our guide to gyms in Stavanger for an overview and prices.