As the sun sets on 2025, the Australian running community is already looking toward the horizon. Whether you are lace-up-curious and aiming for your first 5k or a seasoned marathoner chasing a sub-3-hour PB, 2026 is shaping up to be the biggest year for Australian endurance sports yet.
With the Sydney Marathon now holding its prestigious status as an Abbott World Marathon Major and iconic events like the Melbourne Marathon and Gold Coast Marathon continuing to see record participation, there has never been a better time to plan your season.
In this guide, we’ll break down how to set effective goals, provide a roadmap for beginners and experts alike, and highlight the “must-run” events on the 2026 Australian Running Calendar.
Part 1: How to Set Running Goals for 2026
Most New Year’s resolutions fail because they are too vague. “I want to run more” isn’t a plan; it’s a wish. To succeed in 2026, use the SMART framework combined with Habit-Based Goals.
1. The SMART Approach
- Specific: Instead of “running a marathon,” aim for “finishing the 2026 Adelaide Festival City Marathon.”
- Measurable: Track your weekly mileage.
- Achievable: If you currently run 5km, a 10km goal for March is realistic; a 100km ultra for January might not be.
- Relevant: Choose events that actually excite you.
- Time-Bound: Register for an event! Nothing motivates like a paid race entry.
2. Outcome Goals vs. Process Goals
- Outcome Goal: “I want to run a sub-2-hour half-marathon.”
- Process Goal: “I will run three times a week and complete one strength session.” Focus on the process, and the outcome will follow.
Part 2: For the Beginners: From Couch to Finish Line
If 2026 is the year you finally want to call yourself a “runner,” welcome! The Australian running scene is incredibly inclusive.
Starting Small: The 5k and 10k
The first half of the year is perfect for building a base. Start with local 5km Fun Runs or your nearest parkrun to get used to the atmosphere of a timed event.
- Goal: Complete your first 5k without stopping by March.
- Next Step: Aim for a 10km event in the cooler months of May or June.
Recommended Beginner Events for 2026:
- Carman’s Fun Run (Melbourne, Feb 15): A flat, supportive environment perfect for a first 5k or 10k.
- Sydney Marathon 10km (Sydney, Aug 30): Experience the bridge crossing without the 42km commitment.
- Run the Rock (Hanging Rock, VIC, March 21): A scenic way to enjoy a community-focused event.
Part 3: For the Seasoned Athlete: Chasing PBs and Majors
For those with a few medals already hanging on the wall, 2026 is about performance and variety.
The Marathon Season
The Australian marathon season peaks twice: once in the mid-year (Brisbane and Gold Coast) and again in the spring (Sydney and Melbourne).
- The World Major Factor: Now that Sydney is a World Marathon Major, expect international competition and a “big city” vibe like London or NYC.
- The PB Hunters: The Gold Coast Marathon in July remains the fastest course in the country. If you want to achieve a personal best, this is where you should go.
Planning a “Race-cation”
Many athletes are now combining their 2026 goals with travel. Events like the Hobart Airport Marathon Festival (April) or the Great Ocean Road Running Festival (May) offer world-class scenery that makes the training grind worth it.
Part 4: The 2026 Australian Major Event Roadmap
Stay ahead of the pack by marking these key dates in your calendar. Note: Dates are based on the latest 2026 schedules and should be verified on our calendar pages.
New South Wales (NSW) / ACT
- Canberra Times Marathon Festival (April 11-12): A staple for autumn PB hunters.
- Sydney Marathon (August 30): The crown jewel of Australian running. Ballots often open early, so keep a close eye on registration dates.
- Orange Running Festival (March 15): A fantastic regional event for those wanting to escape the city.
Victoria (VIC)
- Great Ocean Road Running Festival (May 16-17): Truly one of the world’s most scenic courses.
- Run Melbourne (July 19): The perfect mid-winter half marathon to test your fitness.
- Nike Melbourne Marathon Festival (October 11): Finish on the hallowed turf of the MCG.
Queensland (QLD)
- Brisbane Marathon Festival (June 7): A beautiful winding course through the river city.
- Gold Coast Marathon (July 4-5): The ultimate “fast” race. It’s flat, sea-level, and usually has perfect running weather.
- Sunshine Coast Marathon (August 2): A great late-winter option.
Other States
- Tasmania: Cadbury Marathon (Jan 11) is the perfect way to start the year with a summer marathon in the cool Tassie air.
- South Australia: Adelaide Festival City Marathon (May 3) offers a flat, fast course through the CBD and parklands.
- Western Australia: The Perth City to Surf remains a massive community drawcard for August.
Part 5: Beyond the Tarmac: Triathlons, Stairs, and Obstacles
If you find traditional road running a bit repetitive, 2026 is the year to diversify your training.
1. Triathlons
Australia is a global powerhouse for triathlons. The 2XU Triathlon Series in Victoria (January-March) is the gold standard for beginners.
- Key Event: Oceania Standard Distance Championships (Devonport, TAS, March 13-15) for those looking for elite-level competition.
2. Stair Climbing
The ultimate test of vertical fitness. Keep an eye out for the Tower One Stair Challenge or the Eureka Climb in Melbourne. These are high-intensity goals that translate into incredible leg strength for your regular running. Dates for both are TBD at the time of writing.
3. Obstacle Course Racing (OCR)
Events like Spartan and Tough Mudder continue to challenge runners with a mix of endurance and functional strength. These are best tackled with a team—perfect for a social fitness goal in 2026.
Part 6: 2026 Training & Preparation Tips
To reach your goals, you need a solid foundation. Here are three areas to focus on this year:
- Strength Training: Most running injuries are caused by weakness elsewhere. Aim for two sessions a week focusing on glutes, calves, and core.
- Nutrition & Hydration: Don’t wait until race week to figure out your fuel. Test your gels and electrolyte intake during your long Sunday runs.
- Community: Join a local run club. The accountability of a group is the best “hack” for staying consistent through the cold winter months.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions about 2026 Running Goals
Q: When should I start training for a 2026 marathon?
A: Most marathon plans are 16–20 weeks long. If you’re aiming for the Gold Coast (July), you should start a structured plan in March. If Sydney or Melbourne is the goal, start in May/June.
Q: What is the best marathon in Australia for beginners?
A: The Gold Coast Marathon and Melbourne Marathon are excellent for beginners because they are flat, have large crowds for motivation, and offer generous cut-off times.
Q: Are there any trail marathons in 2026?
A: Yes! The Surf Coast Trail Marathon (VIC) and the Brisbane Trail Marathon (QLD) are popular choices for those who prefer dirt over asphalt.
Make 2026 Your Best Year Yet
The secret to success is simply showing up. Whether you are aiming for a sub-20 minute 5k or just want to finish a triathlon with a smile on your face, the first step is putting it on the calendar.
Ready to start? Check out our full 2026 Australian Event Calendar to find your next finish line.
Australian Run Calendar is your up to date source for fun runs and running events all around Australia