Climate change puts ideal marathon conditions at risk, study finds

With global temperatures rising rapidly, the window for ideal marathon-weather conditions is closing fast, new research from the nonprofit Climate Central warns, ABC News reported.

Building on these findings, the analysis examined 221 marathons worldwide and found that 86% are likely to experience less favorable race-day conditions by 2045 due to climate change. The study identified the optimal temperature range for marathon performance as roughly 4 to 10 degrees Celsius, but warming trends are reducing the frequency of such conditions.

Further illustrating the widespread impact, all seven Abbott World Marathon Majors — including the New York, Boston and Tokyo marathons — are expected to be affected. Although Tokyo still offers the best conditions for elite male runners in terms of ideal race-day temperatures, this advantage is expected to gradually decline over the next two decades.

The study also notes that elite female runners, who tend to perform better in slightly warmer weather, will likewise see fewer optimal race days as these trends continue.

Former world champion Catherine Ndereba said runners should not only focus on improving their skills but also adapt their training to rising temperatures.