Running a marathon

Type: Vocabulary
Originally published on October 29, 2023

Running a marathon is a great topic for English learners to discuss. By talking about the different aspects of running a marathon, such as training, nutrition, and race day preparation, they can learn new vocabulary and practice their speaking and listening skills. Additionally, discussing the physical and mental challenges of running a marathon can help them to develop their understanding of idioms and expressions.

Instructions:
Go through the vocabulary below with your students and ask them to try and use this vocabaulry where possible when discussing the different conversation questions.

About Running a marathon

Running a marathon is an incredible feat of physical and mental endurance. It usually requires months of training and dedication to prepare for the race. On the day of the marathon, runners must be prepared to push their bodies to the limit. The race is 26.2 miles long and can take anywhere from three to six hours to complete. During the race, runners must stay focused and motivated to keep going. Eating and drinking the right amount of fluids is also important to maintain energy levels. Overall, running a marathon is a challenging but rewarding experience.

Vocabulary Related to Running a marathon

Try and use the following vocabulary when answering the question. Click to look up the definition in the dictionary

  • runner (noun)
  • challenging (adjective)
  • persistent (adjective)
  • prepare (verb)
  • train (verb)
  • push on (phrasal verb)

Conversation Questions

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  • Do you think running a marathon is a good way to challenge yourself?
  • Would you say running a marathon is a good way to stay in shape?
  • Have you ever trained for a marathon?
  • What tips would you give to someone who is running a marathon for the first time?
  • Do you think it is possible to train for a marathon in a short amount of time?
  • What kind of physical and mental preparation do you think is necessary for running a marathon?
  • Would you say running a marathon requires a lot of dedication?
  • What are the benefits and challenges of running a marathon?
Gregory
This conversation topic was prepared by Gregory

Gregory is a qualified TEFL teacher who has been teaching English as a Foreign Language (ESL) for over a decade. He has taught in-person classes in Spain and to English learners around the world online.