Race Training Plans
Noosa Marathon
Training Plan
Held each May on the Sunshine Coast, Noosa Marathon winds through coastal trails, national park and beachside streets. One of Australia's most beautiful running events — and a solid early-season target before the winter marathon season kicks off.
For official race information and registration visit the Noosa Marathon official website.
Choose Your Distance
Training for a Mixed Terrain Course
Noosa isn't a flat road race — the course includes sections through Noosa National Park with trail surfaces and some elevation. If you're targeting a time PB, adjust your expectations by 5–10 minutes compared to a flat road marathon.
Include at least one trail or hill run each week in your build. This doesn't need to be technical — even road hills will prepare your legs for the course's undulation and strengthen the muscles needed for uneven surfaces.
Training tip: A May race means your heavy training blocks fall in February–April — Australian autumn is perfect running weather. Start your 16-week plan in mid-January for the marathon, or February for the half.
How Long to Train
For the full marathon, 16–20 weeks is standard. Given the mixed terrain, err toward the longer end if this is your first marathon or your first trail-influenced race.
For the half marathon, 12 weeks is plenty for most runners. Focus on building weekly volume first, then add quality sessions in the final 8 weeks.
Ready to Train for Noosa?
Noosa Training Plan
Set your race date to May, pick your distance and goal pace, and get a personalised week-by-week plan.
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