We’ve all been there. It’s January, motivation is high, and you sign up for a marathon on a whim. Fast forward to August: you’re undertrained, injured, or dreading the start line.

The secret to a successful running year isn’t just motivation—it’s periodisation.

Whether you are chasing a PB or just want to stay fit, structuring your 2026 calendar now will keep you consistent all year long. Here is the 3-step strategy pro runners use to plan their year, and how you can apply it using the Run Calendar listings.

Step 1: Pick Your “A-Race” First

Your “A-Race” is your mountain top. It is the one event you care about most this year. It requires a 12-16 week dedicated training block.

• The Golden Rule: You can really only peak for 1 or 2 “A-Races” a year. Don’t get greedy!
• When to run it: The Australian running season peaks in cooler months (May–September).
• Search Now: Filter our calendar by Marathon or Half Marathon and pick one event to anchor your year.

Step 2: Sprinkle in “B-Races” for Fitness

“B-Races” are stepping stones. You don’t taper for them, and you don’t stress about the result. They are dress rehearsals to test your gear, your nutrition, and your race-day nerves.

• Timing: Schedule a B-Race 4 to 6 weeks before your A-Race.
• Example: If you are running the Gold Coast Marathon in July, find a local 10km or Half Marathon in late May to test your fitness.

Step 3: Use “C-Races” for Fun

This is why we run! “C-Races” are low-pressure community events. They keep the training grind from getting boring.

• The Idea: Do a Santa Run, a colour run, or a local trail event you’ve never tried.
• Find one nearby: Check our Fun Run listings to find something short and sweet this weekend.

The “Runcation” Bonus

Need extra motivation? 2026 is the perfect year to turn a race into a holiday. If you live in Victoria, why not browse the Queensland Calendar for a winter escape? Or if you’re in NSW, check out the Tasmanian listings for some epic trail scenery.

Ready to build your 2026 schedule?

Don’t wait until registrations sell out.

• Search Events in Victoria
• Search Events in NSW
• Search Events in Queensland
• Search Events in WA