A happy woman is running through autumnal woods, knows how to start running

How to Start Running: My First Month as a Runner at Thirty

On October 12th, 2024, I embarked on a journey I never thought I’d actually get to, though I’d wanted it for the past decade since I first saw students gliding through my Georgia Southern University campus. That journey was running. And let me be blunt—running sucks. It’s that simple. But here’s the kicker: that’s why it’s great ... More
A woman with a dog is running on a foggy morning down a country lane, managing her chronic illness with exercise.

Running with a Chronic Illness Ep. 1: The Physiological Impact of Exercise on Your Health and Vice Versa

While research confirms that an active lifestyle lowers one's chances of premature death and chronic illness (Warburton et al., 2006), many athletes find themselves on the short end of the stick, developing a disease despite their best efforts to stay happy and healthy. Even though participants in all kinds of sports have to navigate the ... More
Traditional Greek pottery art with silhouettes of men running

26.2 Curious Facts about Marathons to Fill your Need for Wonder

The marathon is a test of endurance, spirit, and willpower. It covers 26.2 miles (or 42.195 kilometers), which has become the ultimate challenge for long-distance runners. In the world of running, marathons hold a special place in many runners' and non-runners' hearts. Basic Marathon Facts A marathon is a long-distance running event ... More
Streetcar no 1015 Illinois Terminal Railroad drives through the Castro District on the historic F-Market Line

The Historic F-Market Line | SFM Ambassador Scott Benbow’s City Guide

Welcome to an exploration of San Francisco’s vibrant culture and astonishing history. Each month, we’ll focus on a different San Francisco subject, uncovering the stories that have shaped the city’s character. This time around, it's the historic streetcar F-Market Line. If you’re running the San Francisco Marathon and would like to ... More
Golden Gate Bridge from Crissy Fields, one of the green spaces in San Francisco, great place where to run in San Francisco.

Top 8 Perfect Fall Runs for Fitness Lovers in San Francisco

Running in San Francisco during autumn is an experience unlike any other. With the city's iconic hills, ocean breezes, and breathtaking vistas, it's hard to find a better backdrop for your run. As the fall season rolls in, you'll notice the mild weather offering the perfect climate to lace up your sneakers and hit the roads and trails without ... More
The Transamerica Pyramid dominates the San Francisco City Skyline

The Transamerica Pyramid | SFM Ambassador Scott Benbow’s City Guide

Welcome to the first installment of this exploration of San Francisco’s vibrant culture and astonishing history. Each month, we’ll focus on a different San Francisco subject, uncovering the stories that have shaped the city’s character. If you’re running the San Francisco Marathon and would like to learn more about the city, or if ... More
SKOUT poses in his gear, including the helmet

SFM Ambassador DeadSkout’s Coast-to-Coast Run for Mental Health!

Final Update SKOUT has finished his Transcon run from California to New York. He did it in 68 days, running on average 43.67 miles daily. The run was dedicated to spreading awareness about Mental Health & Suicide Prevention. There's still chance to get involved; the donation links are still active!   In an incredible run ... More
Scott Benbow runs during the RUN365 series. Scott uses rucking to prevent injuries and train for marathons.

Rucking the Alexi Pappas 10K at the San Francisco Marathon

Instead of running one of the races during the San Francisco Marathon weekend, I decided on rucking the Alexi Pappas 10K this year. As you may know, rucking is walking, hiking, or running slowly with a weighted backpack. This would be my first rucking race. Written by Scott Benbow Edited by Pavlína Marek Training Gearing up for the ... More
Header for the 2024 San Francisco Marathon Athlete Guide with runners running from the olden Gate Bridge

Race Director Lauri Abrahamsen Introduces the 2024 San Francisco Marathon Live on TV

Less than two days remain before the 2024 San Francisco Marathon runners take to the streets of our beautiful city. With the race quickly approaching, final preparations are underway and the SF Marathon team is looking forward to welcoming our runners to the Race Expo. Only a few hours before the Expo is set to open its doors to the ... More
Old-fashioned San Francisco street cars ride around Mission District at sunrise

Miles 21-26.2: Mission District—Fast and Flat to the Finish Line | Course Landmarks and Their History

If you think of a marathon as two 10-mile runs followed by a 10-kilometer run, then the first two segments are done and there’s only one left. A glance at the elevation map for the final 10K reveals that the biggest and steepest uphills are behind you. The Haight neighborhood, Mission District, and the Dogpatch await your arrival. Take a ... More