Find your next adventure.

Coach tip

The Gulf swim can be choppy — stay calm; after that the course is perfect for a personal best.

Coach tip

Forget a PB: the long climb to km 31 demands early restraint — start well slower than on a flat marathon. From km 32 it drops downhill into the Panathenaic Stadium, where you can push. Even in November it can turn warm, so plan some heat adaptation.

Coach tip

The Atlantic wind on the coastal section is the unpredictable part — run those kilometres by effort, not by pace.

November in Porto is mild but often wet: test your shoes and socks on wet tarmac.

A good late-season date if summer was lost to injury.

Coach tip

Mild in Andalusia still means warm in November — start drinking earlier than you would at an autumn marathon at home.

The course is fast with few turns: a date on which a personal best can realistically be planned.

A build starting in August carries through to November — without the hard weeks falling into summer heat.

Coach tip

Point to point means logistics: travel to the start, your kit bag and the way back all belong in the plan before race weekend.

The course is not flat but gently rolling along the coast — hold effort steady over the small rises rather than defending a split.

Sea wind is the norm here; find a group instead of fighting it alone.

Coach tip

A flat course in November is the best combination for a personal best — the heat is gone and so is the profile.

The date sits late in the season: build so that your peak does not already fall in September.

The old-town sections are narrow and twisty; do not let the field dictate your first kilometres.

Coach tip

Do not expect your road time: 370 metres of climbing and mostly unpaved ground cost considerably more here than a flat city loop.

Run your final weeks on forest and field tracks — the surface loads the foot differently from tarmac.

Early November in the Eifel can be wet and cold; test your shoes and clothing in the rain beforehand.

Coach tip

A flat course in November without heat — a clean setting in which to plan a target time.

The old town brings cobbled sections; a shoe with a little more cushioning pays off.

The trip is short enough from southern Bavaria and Tyrol for a weekend without flying.

Coach tip

Expect a headwind section on the bike and plan aggressive cooling and salt for the humid heat on the run.

Coach tip

Late November is the latest sensible end point for a season — what follows is base work, not the next race.

Cobbles in the old town: the sections are short but cost rhythm.

The course is flat and easy to pace; split it into thirds rather than kilometres.

Coach tip

A fast, flat course in late November — the best date in the calendar if a personal best is the goal.

The Atlantic wind can turn; stay in a group rather than out alone at the top of your range.

The entry fee has been unchanged for four editions — entering early pays off for the quota, not the price.

Coach tip

The course is ideal for a personal best — stay aerodynamic in the sea breeze and run your target pace from the start.

Coach tip

Perfect for a PB, but the long straights invite fast running: start under control and run evenly. The December weather is often ideal — not too hot, not too cold. Find a suitable pace group early and push through consistently so you don't fade late in the race.

Coach tip

Don't expect a PB: loose sand and the often fierce headwind on the beach sap huge amounts of energy. Mind the tides and run the beach section tightly in a group for shelter. The dunes get more technical and undulating — ration your strength all the way to the lighthouse finish.

Coach tip

The long climb out of Eilat comes early and lasts — ride it well below the power you would target on a flat long-distance race.

Late January means training through the European winter: plan your long rides onto the trainer or into a training camp in good time.

Temperatures swing sharply between the water, the desert and the altitude — test your clothing strategy on a cold day beforehand.

Coach tip

Coming out of winter you will not be heat-adapted in February — hold back on race pace and drink more than feels necessary from the first hour on the bike.

The rolling bike course rewards steady power; the short climbs tempt you into overpacing.

Plan your build backwards from the date: a half distance in early February means base work in November and December.

Coach tip

The alpine lake is cool even in February — a wetsuit you can swim two kilometres in comfortably matters more here than a fast bike.

The race sits in the middle of the European off-season: either bring your build forward by six months, or start deliberately without a target time.

The run is on trails rather than tarmac — put part of your final weeks' running on unpaved ground.

Coach tip

Extremely fast and pancake-flat — ideal for a PB, so find a group early and run consistently. In some sections there are few spectators and it can feel monotonous: set yourself intermediate goals. Despite February it can be mild, so drink early and regularly throughout.

Coach tip

Flat does not mean fast here: in high humidity sweat barely cools you, so plan the run a level slower than your best on a flat course.

Test your fluid and salt strategy somewhere warm beforehand, not in European February training.

The bike course tempts you to go all-out because nothing slows you down — that is exactly what breaks the run.

Coach tip

Ride the rolling bike sections evenly and hold power back at the wind-exposed turnaround.

Coach tip

Don't get too euphoric with the downhill of the first kilometres on the bridge — control your pace to spare your quads. After that it's flat and fast along the river. If the tailwind is right, a PB is on: push through evenly all the way to Belém and the finish.

Coach tip

A fast, flat course with PB potential — the Dutch record was set here. The coastal stretch near Scheveningen is heavily wind-exposed: run there in a group for shelter and save energy for the open section before pushing the pace again over the closing kilometres.

Coach tip

Because of the Sanpietrini cobblestones, choose shoes with good cushioning and run there with a slightly shorter, controlled stride. The many landmarks are a pleasant distraction, but can make you euphoric too early: stick to your pace and ration your energy to the finish.

Coach tip

The start on the wide Passeig de Gràcia is good for positioning — use it for a controlled beginning. From km 30 it gets mentally tough: set yourself intermediate goals. The mild March weather is ideal for a PB, so run evenly and find yourself a pace group to settle in.

Coach tip

Flat and fast — ideal for a PB. The city-centre start can be tight, so don't get pulled out too quickly there. The sheltered sections along the Main are perfect for a negative split: ration your pace and push harder in the second half once you've settled into your rhythm.

Coach tip

A tradition since 1947 — a cult event with great atmosphere. Easter weather can still be chilly: dress in removable layers at the start. The second half gets a little hillier — hold something back in the first half so you don't fade on the climbs to the finish.

Coach tip

In early April the water is cold at around 16 degrees — get at least two open-water wetsuit swims in beforehand, not just pool sessions.

Appealing as a season opener, but the build runs through winter: your last hard bike sessions fall in February and March.

The hilly bike and the flat run are a poor match — ride the climbs too hard and you feel it on the very first running kilometres.

Coach tip

Note the early start time and warm up accordingly. The bridges over the Vltava can be windy: run in a sheltered group there and keep a compact posture. Otherwise the course is lightning-fast — find a group early and push through evenly all the way to the finish.

Coach tip

Often still quite cool — a good fitness check before summer. The course is flat and fast, so use the wide roads to settle into an even rhythm. Don't get swept along too quickly in the dense field early on; at the Brandenburg Gate the crowds push you home.

Coach tip

The many bands create a great atmosphere — use them as a boost. The course is gently rolling, so it's not a pure PB hunt: spread your pace evenly. The Dreisam section in the second half offers welcome cooling on warm spring days, a good spot to refresh and refuel before the finish.

Coach tip

Plenty of bands provide atmosphere — use them as mental checkpoints. Gently rolling, so not a pure PB course: pace evenly. The second of the two laps can feel mentally tough because the route is already familiar — break it into segments and tick off the distance band by band.

Coach tip

Flat and right along the Rhine — in cool spring weather a good chance for a PB or Boston qualifier. Few turns make it easy to hold a steady rhythm. Pace the two loops deliberately and save some reserves for the second half on the way to the Marktplatz finish.

Coach tip

Flat, fast marathon near the German border — ideal for a personal best. Settle into an even pace from the start and don't get pulled along too early in the field. Use the aid stations consistently and hold a calm, economical rhythm on the long straight sections.

Coach tip

Pancake-flat — an ideal PB course. Wide roads and long straights make even pacing easy, so lock into your target pace from the start. The Eilenriede forest section offers shade and variety; use the strong spectator support as a boost to drive you through the finish.

Coach tip

Extremely flat and fast — lock into your target pace from the start. Long straights can feel mentally tough, so set intermediate goals and run in a group where possible. The Maschsee section and the Eilenriede urban forest break up the course and offer welcome shade on warm days.

Coach tip

Flat and fast — a good PB chance, but start in a controlled, even way. The Danube section offers wind shelter and steady terrain, ideal for a negative split: ration the first half a touch more conservatively and push harder over the second half to the finish.

Coach tip

Very flat along the Danube — ideal for a PB, but factor in the wind off the river and run in sheltered groups. The consistently flat course is perfect for a controlled pacing strategy: hold an even pace and avoid starting too fast to keep something for the finish.

Coach tip

The Erasmus Bridge is practically the only elevation and is crossed twice (at the start and around km 26): take care there, otherwise it's pancake-flat. Ideal for a PB — find a group early and run evenly. The huge crowd carries you over the closing kilometres to the finish.

Coach tip

The Bois de Boulogne at the end is mentally tough — deliberately hold back energy for the final kilometres. The cobblestones and tunnels cost substance: run carefully and evenly through the tunnels. Despite the rolling profile with around 250 metres of climbing, a good time is possible.

Coach tip

Flat along the lakeshore — ideal for a PB, so run evenly and find a group early. The course is very well organised, letting you focus fully on your pace. It can be windy along the open lakeshore: run sheltered there and keep your rhythm steady all the way to the finish.

Coach tip

Very fast and flat along the lake — ideal for a PB, so run evenly. At the turnaround, mental toughness is key: ration your energy and use the runners coming back as motivation. The course is very well organised, letting you focus fully on your pace to the finish.

Coach tip

1,462 metres of climbing over 80 kilometres means your bike split says nothing about your form on flat courses — do not compare them.

Without climbing work over the winter this becomes a long day — find hills or simulate them on the trainer.

The descents are technical; practise riding in the drops rather than in the aero position.

Coach tip

The harbour swim is usually calm, but the April water is cool (around 16–17°C): a wetsuit is essential, and pack warm clothing in your T1 bag. Expect windy sections on the bike — ride to power. Use the flat, fast Turia run to hold an even PB pace through the red-carpet finish.

Coach tip

Flat with minimal elevation (around 70 m) — ideal for a PB, but start under control. The two-loop course demands mental strength, as the second lap gets lonelier: set yourself intermediate goals. The start and finish at the Red Bull Arena create a great stadium atmosphere.

Coach tip

Find a group early and keep your rhythm steady — the flat course rewards even pacing. In cool April weather, don't overdress; gloves and arm warmers help at the start and can be discarded later. You can attack the final 5 km actively and at a faster pace to the finish.

Coach tip

The course is flat enough for a PB: run the first half deliberately even and save something for the final ten kilometres.

Mid-April means your long runs fall in February and March — plan them to survive bad weather.

The two Rhine bridges bring a short rise and fall: hold your effort steady there rather than your pace, and take the seconds back on the way down.

Coach tip

The start on the Reichsbrücke can be windy: run sheltered in a group there. The Ringstraße section is a scenic highlight — enjoy Vienna's grand buildings as a backdrop. Otherwise the course is fast, so hold an even pace and push towards the Burgtheater finish.

Coach tip

The start on the bridge is often windy: run sheltered in a group there. The Prater section on the dead-straight Hauptallee feels mentally long: set yourself intermediate goals and stay in rhythm. Otherwise flat and fast — find a pace group early for a good time to the finish.

Coach tip

One of the fastest courses in Europe — ideal for a PB. The tricky part is the wind on the open lagoon: stay low in your aero position and ride to power rather than speed to save energy. Use the flat, beachside run to hold a steady high pace and cool yourself regularly on warm days.

Coach tip

Plan your fueling and cooling carefully for heat and high humidity.

Coach tip

Flat and fast but weather-prone — plan for wind and rain and adjust clothing and pace. The infamous 'man with the hammer' often hits at Eppendorfer Baum: ration your energy and keep your pace in check until then. The incredible atmosphere will carry you through the final kilometres.

Coach tip

The first half tends to be faster and slightly downhill — despite the congestion, start under control and don't waste energy overtaking. Watch out for discarded bottles at the aid stations. The incredible crowd support carries you over the final kilometres to The Mall.

Coach tip

Flat and fast — a personal best is realistic here, but do not get carried away along the Rhine between kilometres 2 and 5. The long stretch through the Neustadt and Mombach districts is the quietest part of the course, so hold an even pace there. From the cathedral at kilometre 19 the city centre carries you to the finish.

Coach tip

The tight start area at the Old Town Square can get congested — position yourself appropriately and don't waste energy overtaking. The cobblestones tire out your calves: run there under control and with a slightly shorter stride. Otherwise the course is flat and fast — ideal for a PB.

Coach tip

This is a trail marathon, not a road race — uphill training and grippy trail shoes are mandatory. Poles are permitted and highly recommended on the steep climbs. Mind the compulsory kit (rain jacket, warm layers), as high-mountain weather can change rapidly and turn cold within minutes.

Coach tip

The big climb to the Coll de Femenia comes relatively early — ride it steadily and don't over-pace, or you'll pay on the run. The descent that follows demands full focus. The flat, low-shade run along the bay can get hot and windy: drink regularly and keep cooling yourself throughout.

Coach tip

A course with no climbs forgives no soft pedalling: you turn the pedals for 80 kilometres with no hill forcing a change of pace.

Flat and exposed go together on the coast — practise holding the aero position over long stretches.

A good early date on which to set a time you measure the rest of your season against.

Coach tip

Gently rolling along the lake — not completely flat, but quick. The Jet d'Eau and the alpine views are a great motivation boost, so take them in. Ration your pace on the rolling country sections and use the flatter lakeside stretch for a fast finish on the Mont-Blanc bridge.

Coach tip

Gently rolling but fast — not completely flat. The first half has slightly more descent than climb, so don't get carried away there. The vineyards in the second half are scenically superb but undulating, so ration your strength. The alpine panorama serves as your reward along the way.

Coach tip

Flat along the Danube — good for a PB, so run evenly and ration your energy. In the UNESCO old town, narrow lanes and some cobblestones await: adjust your stride there. The Stone Bridge is a great photo spot and a good intermediate goal to focus the mind on the way to the finish.

Coach tip

A disc wheel is allowed but may be banned at short notice in storms — in crosswinds the front wheel is the bigger problem anyway. The climbs aren't steep but are long and wind-battered: ride to power. Here, mental toughness matters more than any pacing target.

Coach tip

Around 500 metres of climbing sounds modest but arrives in short steep ramps — ride them seated in an easy gear rather than out of the saddle.

The flat promenade run is fast; hold back enough on the bike to actually be able to run it.

The Adriatic is still cool in mid-May — plan on a wetsuit.

Coach tip

You swim in an outdoor pool: individual starts every 5 seconds, then a zigzag from lane 1 to lane 8, three times over with a short land exit (3 × 400 m). You must touch the wall at every turn or you are disqualified. The water is around 23°C and wetsuits are only allowed if it is colder — train without one. The guide time for the 1.2 km is 35 minutes.

Six times the same 10 km lap on a closed road: count your laps, because the olympic-distance waves start from 12:35 pm and ride the same lap. The drafting zone is 12 m long. Transition is in the Erlbad, and your bike must be racked at least 30 minutes before your start.

Six run laps of 2.5 km. According to the provisional schedule the three middle-distance waves start at 10:35, 11:15 and 11:55 am, so you run through midday. Your start time is published online at least 7 days before. Without a DTU race licence you pay for a day licence on top of the entry fee, and registration closes on 2 May 2027.

Coach tip

Ride the incoming tide on the swim and hold an even effort on the flat bike.

Coach tip

Trail character — not a flat road race, so choose light trail shoes with grip. Train your downhill technique specifically, as the descents cost energy and can strain your quads. Pace the climb to the Plänckners Aussicht and take your time on the uneven sections to stay safe.

Coach tip

Not a road race — trail shoes are recommended, and you should study the elevation profile carefully beforehand. Carry your own fuelling for the long sections. Ration your energy well over the ridge trails and enjoy the famous hospitality at the aid stations along the way.

Coach tip

Warm, clear lake water makes the swim comfortable — the triangular course is easy to sight. Take the rolling bike kilometres through the orchards evenly rather than attacking every hill. Very scenic, ideal for a relaxed yet quick middle-distance day.

Coach tip

There are no long recovery stretches on the bike — ride to power rather than speed and don't over-pace the climbs. The rolling, largely shadeless run can get very hot in warm weather: drink early and regularly and cool yourself consistently at the aid stations to avoid overheating.

Coach tip

The technical, hilly bike demands experience — ride with foresight and don't over-pace the climbs. The Mistral wind can be strong and dangerous on descents: stay focused and controlled. The twisty run in Parc de la Torse, with its many turns, isn't ideal for a personal best.

Coach tip

The bike course has several genuine climbs: train longer hill intervals and ride them with a power cap on race day.

With water around 24°C a wetsuit ban is possible — do some open-water sessions without one.

The run is rolling: treat your target pace as an average across the ups and downs, not a flat-road pace.

Coach tip

The transition between the two lakes with a short land run is unusual — practise the exit and re-entry so you don't lose time. Ride the hilly bike evenly and save energy for the climbs. Use the flat two-loop run through the old town to hold a steady, controlled pace to the finish.

Coach tip

Flat and fast along the Salzach — ideal for a PB, but start in a controlled, even way. The great atmosphere in the old town carries you; take care briefly in the narrow lanes. Hohensalzburg Fortress in the background makes for a unique race setting: enjoy the scenery to the finish.

Coach tip

Relatively flat along the Salzach — good for an even pace, so ration your energy. Enjoy the UNESCO old-town backdrop, adjusting your pace briefly in the narrow lanes. Mozart's hometown adds cultural flair: let the baroque setting carry you through the long sections to the finish.

Coach tip

Decide where you want to qualify before setting this as a goal — the slot comes from another race, not from a registration.

A course without climbing rewards pure sustained output; what counts is how long you can hold a given power, not how well you climb.

Because the field is qualified it goes fast from the gun — do not let others pull you off your own pacing on the bike.

Coach tip

According to the FAQ the race uses a mass start — if you are not a strong swimmer, line up at the back or on the side. You swim one 400 m and two 750 m loops. On the middle distance wetsuits are allowed up to 24.5°C; on 20 June 2025 the water was already 24.7°C. In 2027 the race is a month earlier, but be ready for either case.

Four times the same lap with about 200 m of climbing each, every time up the "Maximal Mountain" at up to 15% — choose gearing that gets you up there under control four times. That is also where the laps only aid station is. Drafting is not allowed. In 2026 there was a cut-off before the last lap, roughly a 20 km/h average according to the organiser.

A flat out-and-back course along the Isar, turning after about 2.8 km; in 2026 the run was cut from four to three laps because of the heat. The main aid station with sponges and ice is just before the wooden bridge. Collect your race pack the day before; in 2026 the 7:25 am briefing at the swim start was compulsory. Without a DTU race licence you pay for a day licence on top (€25 according to the FAQ).

Coach tip

Rolling along the Main river — factor the climbs in the wine region into your pace and run them under control. The Residence and the Old Main Bridge provide great scenery. The vineyards along the course are part of the charm: enjoy them, but stay at an even, steady pace.

Coach tip

The Västerbron bridge has to be run twice — pace yourself and stay steady on the bridges, where the wind can catch you out. The course's total elevation difference is only 29 m. Savour the finish on the track of the historic 1912 Olympic Stadium.

Coach tip

Three 750 m triangles in the Briesensee, with a short land exit before each lap. A referee decides on wetsuits on race day — in 2025 the lake was 16.2°C, in 2026 23°C, so be ready for either. Course changes are posted at short notice on the home page (in 2025 the swim was shortened to 1.5 km), so check again the day before.

Twice the 42 km lap on quiet roads where traffic rules apply: keep right, and drafting is punished with a time penalty or disqualification. There is only one aid station, at the start of the 2nd lap — carry enough bottles of your own. Anyone whose race time after the bike is over 4:50 hours is taken out of the race.

Four 5 km laps around the lake on tarmac and forest paths; after 10 km of running your race time must not exceed 5:30 hours. The start is not until 11:05 am, race packs are only handed out on race day from 8 to 11:15 am, and the race briefing is only online, one week before. Without a race licence your entry costs €15 more, and registration closes on 15 May 2027.

Coach tip

The rolling bike course has no single decisive section — what matters is how evenly you ride across the 90 kilometres.

The Mediterranean is pleasant by late May, but the coastal wind shifts: practise holding aero in a crosswind.

The flat old-town run is fast and easy to pace — split it into three equal blocks rather than kilometres.

Coach tip

Flat and well surfaced means your bike split depends almost entirely on sustained output — a good place to execute a power target.

A late-May date demands open-water sessions in April; the lake is still cool then.

As the only German middle distance in May it works well as a form test ahead of a main race in summer.

Coach tip

Two laps of the natural lake with a short land exit. In 2026 the start was a rolling land start through a narrow channel, and your time only began at the line just before the water — no need to push to the front. After hot days wetsuits can be banned: train without one too.

Four bike laps with about 135 m of climbing each (2026 racebook): a long, exposed climb between Klein Hesebeck and Oetzendorf, then a steeper descent, plus plenty of wind. The organiser explicitly advises pacing yourself — ride the first lap deliberately easy. Drafting is not allowed; only the Ripdorf–Molzen section is fully closed, elsewhere traffic rules apply.

Nine run laps of 2.2 km around the lake, which you count yourself — too few means disqualification, so your watch should show about 19.8 km at the end. The HALF starts at 9:15 am in 2027, and there were no cut-offs in 2026. Without a race licence you pay a €25 day licence on top, and in 2026 everything was sold out by early February.

Coach tip

Two 950 m laps around the Insel der Jugend island in the Spree, starting at 8:30 am. The referees decide on wetsuits only one hour before, based on the water temperature; the measuring station on the Müggelsee lake gives you a guide. In 2025 the swim was halved because the water was too cold — get used to cool open water.

Drafting is allowed (only within your own gender), so only a classic road bike is permitted: no aero bars, no disc wheels, handlebars no wider than 50 cm — leave your time-trial bike at home. Train group riding and changes of pace rather than long aero sessions. Twelve laps with a turnaround: the chip counts them, but reset your bike computer to 0 before the start anyway.

Four run laps of 4.75 km through the Plänterwald, and the finish closes at 3 pm. Collect your race pack on Friday 3–7 pm or Saturday 11 am–4 pm on Bulgarische Straße; your check-in time is in the start list two weeks before. Without a DTU race licence you need a day licence for €17. You only get your bike back from 3 pm.

Coach tip

4.2 km sounds long, but you swim downstream with the current: in 2026 the median swim time was just over 35 minutes, about as long as a normal middle-distance swim in a lake. The start is a jump off the car ferry, and wetsuits are compulsory for everyone. Always swim to the right of the red buoys, outside the shipping lane, or you risk disqualification. Under the Konrad Adenauer Bridge you pass between the bank and the first pier, under the Kennedy Bridge between the "China ship" and the first pier. Then move close to the right bank early: the exit comes right after the second landing stage.

The 64 km from the Kennedy Bridge through the Siebengebirge are short but very rolling — ride the climbs under control and save some strength for the run. Bike check-in for individual starters closes at 8:15 am on race day, and the swim starts from 9:15 am.

The run is three 5 km laps of a flat out-and-back course on the Rhine promenade with lots of spectators — over 15 km you can go out faster than on a normal middle distance. Race packs are handed out on Saturday from 2 to 7 pm at the KGS Josefschule and on race day from 6 to 8 am. Miss your start wave and you miss the start. Without a race licence you pay a €22 day licence on top.

Coach tip

Flat bike course through the Donaumoos — stay in your aero position and push even watts. The lake swim usually offers good visibility. The run has gravel sections along the Danube: choose shoes with a bit of grip and watch your footing there to avoid slipping at speed.

Coach tip

Choose climbing-friendly gearing, the bike profile has few flat sections.

Lake water can be cold even in June – plan for a wetsuit.

The Queens Park run is undulating, pace the climbs across the laps.

Coach tip

Practise running stairs for the 'Stairway to Heaven' — the steps come on both run laps. 'Witches Hill' is short but viciously steep (around 100 metres of climbing): push up it under control and recover on the descents. On the flat sections, hold your pace steadily and save watts.

Coach tip

Flat and fast — perfect for a PB. Stay low and aerodynamic on the bike and push even watts. The river swim can vary with the current, so sight the buoys. Use the shaded, spectator-rich run to hold a steady, brisk pace and carry your speed all the way to the indoor finish.

Coach tip

One of the fastest courses in Europe — ideal for a PB. On the dikes, watch for crosswinds and gusts: ride there under control and low in your aero position. The flat, packed four-loop run around the Alster is motivating; use the crowd to hold an even pace to the finish.

Coach tip

The swim is notorious for jellyfish and freezing cold – protect your face with Vaseline.

The bike course is 202 km long and extremely exhausting due to relentless winds.

The mountain run features highly technical terrain (scree and wet rocks). Wear trail shoes with excellent grip.

Coach tip

It is about 800 m on foot from transition to the swim start. Allow for that when you put on your wetsuit and warm up. Whether wetsuits are allowed is decided one hour before the start.

The bike loop has short rollers but no long climbs, and you ride it three times. Ride the rollers with a power cap and note on the first lap where you can roll. The roads are closed, but keep right all the same.

The run switches between tarmac, firm paths and forest trail and is mostly shaded. In the 2026 rain athletes criticised the run course — shoes with a little grip help on the forest section.

Coach tip

Six bike laps of 166 m each add up to around 1000 m of climbing. Ride the short rollers with a power cap from the start — the last two laps decide how you start the marathon.

Cut-offs in 2026: swim 2:30 h, onto the run within 10 hours of the start, finish closes at 10 pm. The roads are closed, but vehicles are still possible — keep right.

The marathon is six 7 km laps, mostly shaded in the forest. Split it into laps and fuel on every one — each lap has at least two aid stations and a water point.

Coach tip

2 km in the Aasee lake, starting at 8:30 am according to the countdown on the website. In 2026 the race briefing 15 minutes before the start was compulsory. Bring your own swim cap in a bright, conspicuous colour: since 2026 the organiser no longer provides caps, and dark caps can get you disqualified.

In 2026 the bike was three out-and-back laps on the closed B67: count your own laps, because the organiser holds you jointly responsible for that. Drafting is not allowed and there was one aid station per lap — plan your bottles for 30 km. The DTU rules on bottle cages were tightened in 2025: check your bike before check-in.

Eight flat run laps of 2.5 km, in 2026 with two aid stations per lap. In 2026 bike check-in was only possible on race morning from 7 am, and the B67 is closed from 6:30 am — plan your journey via the diversion. Registration opens on 13 December 2026 at 12 noon; in 2026 the middle distance (limit 290) sold out.

Coach tip

The narrow Lendkanal at the swim exit is tight and crowded — stay calm and swim under control. The hilly bike tempts you to go too fast: ride to power and don't over-pace the climbs. The flat run and the legendary finish-line party await as your reward at the end of the day.

Coach tip

Enjoy the coastal scenery, but do not underestimate the rolling bike and the tropical warmth on the run.

Coach tip

Flat and fast, so ideal for personal bests — but the bike course is prone to wind, so ride low in your aero position and to power. The river swim can vary with the current. Enjoy the flat run along the historic gardens and châteaux to hold an even pace through to the finish.

Coach tip

In the Neckar you swim out to the turn buoy at km 1.0 and back. Rolling start at 8:15 am, three athletes every 5 seconds — line up honestly by your swim time. The referees decide on wetsuits one hour before the start; in 2026 the Neckar was around 19.5°C. The swim cut-off is 1:10 h.

Two laps with a combined 1,100 m of climbing, which the organiser calls demanding: train long climbs and fast descents, not just flat kilometres, and pace the first lap. Drafting is not allowed. You must finish the swim and bike within 5:30 h.

Four flat run laps with turnarounds along the Neckar to the market square, overall cut-off 8:00 h. Bike check-in is Saturday 2–7 pm or race morning 6:00–7:45 am; race packets on race morning need prior registration by email, so collect yours beforehand. Without a race licence you pay a €25 day licence on top; registration closes on 2 June 2027, and in 2026 it sold out weeks ahead.

Coach tip

Two transition areas: T1 right at the Auwaldsee, T2 in the town centre. Bring your own bags for your kit, and collect your wetsuit from the lake yourself after the race. In 2026 race-morning check-in closed at 8 am at T2 and 8:30 am at T1, with the start at 9 am — plan the morning around both trips.

Four times the same 20 km lap with turnarounds: practise braking and accelerating out of the turns. There is an aid station every 20 km at the Auwaldsee turnaround, so plan your bottles for those stretches. In 2026 anyone still on the bike course at 1 pm was taken out of the results.

Four flat 5 km run laps with water and isotonic drinks at km 1 and km 4 of each lap. Without a DTU race licence you pay for a day licence on top of the entry fee (2026: €25). Registration closes on 6 June 2027 at 6 pm, or earlier if the field fills up.

Coach tip

An out-and-back course in the Lindener Stichkanal with a deep-water start on the start line — the course description says 2 km, so expect a little more than 1.9 km. The middle distance starts in three groups between 9 and 10 am, and the race briefing is at 8:45 am. Practise deep-water starts and turns in open water beforehand.

Three times the 30 km lap with about 460 m of climbing in total, so you climb the Stemmer Berg three times — ride it with control. Drafting is not allowed (12 m) and you must keep to the right. Aid comes in bottles at km 0, 30, 60 and 90 (water, isotonic drink, gel) and at km 15, 45 and 75 (water, gel). You rack your bike on race morning between 7:30 and 8:45 am.

Two gently rolling run laps of just over 10.5 km with four aid stations, and laps are checked by chip and wristband. The finish closes at 5 pm, but according to the schedule the bike course closure already ends at 3:30 pm. Race packets are handed out on Saturday from 3 to 6 pm at TSV Limmer. Without a race licence you pay a €25 day licence on top.

Coach tip

Each bike lap climbs to the high point near Ansbach: pace the climb and win the time back on the descent.

A 2.1 km swim is about 10 per cent longer than usual — extend your swim sessions accordingly.

The run is flat with four laps: ideal for holding an even pace and planning your fuelling lap by lap.

Coach tip

The mine holds a few steep climbs: ride them with a power cap rather than by feel, or you will pay for it on the run.

The run is 20 km, not 21.1 — plan your pace for the shorter distance, but do not let it tempt you into a fast start.

The swim and run are at different venues with separate transitions: read the check-in times for T1 and T2 carefully and plan your travel around them.

Coach tip

A flat, fast course, but typically windy in North Holland — that wind is the decisive factor. Ride low and aero, to power rather than speed, and don't overcook it into headwinds. The harbour swim is usually calm. The flat run through the historic city centre is quick and ideal for an even finish.

Coach tip

Rolling start at 10 am right on the beach at the Louisenbad: one 1.9 km lap in the Schlei, round the turn buoy after one kilometre, then back along the harbour promenade. The swim cut-off is 1:10 hours. Practise sighting on buoys and landmarks in open water beforehand.

Right after transition comes a neutral zone of about 50 m where the road narrows: no overtaking, slow down, or you are disqualified. After that you ride the closed L317 to Stenderupau and back three times — practise turning and accelerating again. You have 5:30 h for the swim and bike combined. Riding the course in training is forbidden.

Three run laps past Gottorf Castle and through the Baroque garden, and the organiser says the run course is being redesigned; the overall cut-off is 8 h. Race packs are only handed out on Saturday 19 June, 2–5:30 pm, you rack your bike the same day, and on race morning transition closes at 9:30 am. Without a race licence you pay a €25 day licence on top. There is no waiting list.

Coach tip

This race is unsupported – your support crew needs to be 100% prepared.

The Tremola (Gotthard Pass) has historic cobblestones, prepare mentally and equipment-wise.

The final mountain run up to Kleine Scheidegg is extremely steep. A run-walk strategy is standard.

Coach tip

The warm, clear lake water allows a quick swim. With around 1,200 m of climbing the bike is demanding — ride the ascents steadily rather than over-cooking them out of the saddle. The rolling four-lap run around the lake is beautiful but calls for smart pacing right to the finish.

Coach tip

The water is often cold — wetsuits are usually mandatory, so test yours beforehand. The two-loop bike has around 450 metres of climbing: not pancake-flat, so save energy for the rolling sections. On the run around Kronborg, cobblestone sections make footing uneven, so adjust your stride there.

Coach tip

In the heat, the shadeless run along the Main becomes brutal — plan a consistent cooling strategy and drink early. On the bike, ride the rolling Taunus climbs evenly and don't over-pace them. Use the Australian exit during the swim for orientation and to settle into a calm rhythm.

Coach tip

The bike course is rolling with many restarts: cap your power on every one rather than surging out of the corner above threshold — a hundred of those cost more than one long climb.

Late June on the Atlantic coast can be hot, up to 35 degrees in 2026: do some long runs in the midday heat and plan to cool down at every aid station.

The run crosses a short stretch of sand: shorten your stride there rather than holding your pace.

Coach tip

The swim in the regatta channel is smooth and current-free — a realistic place to plan a target time.

80 rather than 90 km on the bike: recalculate your nutrition, it is not that of a 70.3.

Late June falls in the middle of the season — check whether it fits your plan as a main race or as a form test.

Coach tip

The channel swim often has a current — account for it and swim the line actively. The bike is flat but very windy: ride to power, stay low in your aero position and don't overcook it into headwinds. Use the flat, atmospheric promenade run to hold an even pace to the finish.

Coach tip

Enjoy the Solarer Berg, but don't let the crowd hysteria tempt you into surging too hard. The second bike loop is often windy, so meter your effort. The fast course invites overpacing — stay in your own rhythm and a strong run split becomes possible.

Coach tip

The water in Lake Thun is often cool (around 17°C) — test your wetsuit. The bike demands strong climbing legs: its roughly 2,000 metres of climbing should be ridden evenly and to power. On the lakeside run, the unique panorama of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau carries you to the finish.

Coach tip

The Moselle's current often helps on the swim — but still sight the buoys actively. The rolling bike (around 580 metres of climbing) is very punchy: shift early and don't over-pace the short rises. Use the flat run along the Moselle promenade to hold a steady tempo through the buzzing finish.

Coach tip

Prepare for cool water and wind — test your wetsuit and plan warm clothing for transition. The bike has short, steep hills along the cliff-tops: shift early and don't over-pace them. Stay focused in crosswinds on the exposed coastal sections, where gusts can push you off your line.

Coach tip

Enjoy the swim in the warm, calm lake — a pleasant, controlled start to the day. The fast, gently rolling bike suits a good time: ride aero and push even watts. Let the frenetic crowd atmosphere on the flat city run carry you through to the legendary finish in Plaza España.

Coach tip

Enjoy the calm swim in the clean lake — a controlled start. The rolling bike is scenic, but don't let it distract you and ride to power. It gets cool in the evening on the multi-loop run: have something warm ready for the late kilometres and soak up the atmosphere.

Coach tip

River swim in the Neckar — account for current. Pancake-flat bike course in the Rhine plain — drafting is not allowed. Flat run along the Neckar. Ladenburg's Roman history gives the race a special vibe.

Coach tip

The undulating, demanding bike course requires good effort management: ride the climbs in a controlled way to power and don't over-pace them. The race is stunningly scenic with a welcoming, family atmosphere. Use the flat run in the centre for an even, steady rhythm.

Coach tip

The swim is in the Main-Danube Canal with a deep-water start: 2.0 km north to the turn buoy and back, always keeping the buoys on your left. The straight canal makes sighting easy, so swim your own rhythm. The referees decide at 8 am on race day whether wetsuits are allowed. Last time everyone had to be out of the water by 10:15 am, because ships use the canal again after that.

The two bike laps of 84 km and about 440 m of climbing run on public roads that are not closed: traffic rules apply, and you do not always have right of way at junctions. Slow down on the steep descents near Hammerbach and Weisendorf and in the tight corners. You are fed once per lap in Poppenwind with 0.75 l bottles of sports drink or water and half bananas. Last time the bike had to be finished by 1:30 pm, after which the road marshalling ends.

The run is four 5 km laps: along the canal, over the Membacher Steg into the Mönau forest, past the ponds and through the canal underpass back into the stadium, where every lap includes a short loop on the track. Each lap has three aid stations with water, sports drink, cola and alcohol-free wheat beer, one of them with bananas. There are no gels, so bring your own. The finish closed at 4 pm last time.

Coach tip

Ride the climbs conservatively and save energy for the rolling final bike miles and the hilly run.

Coach tip

Pace yourself well on the bike – the 21 hairpins at the end require serious legs.

The high altitude on the run reduces oxygen intake. Start defensively.

Prepare for a very cold swim (consider double caps or neoprene socks).

Coach tip

Night race — don't forget a headlamp for the darker sections and watch the surface. The illuminated course is a special experience. The Warnow river at night has a unique magic: let the atmosphere carry you, but consciously keep your pace even all the way to the finish.

Coach tip

The swim in Langener Waldsee has good water quality but is often murky — sight the buoys consistently. The bike runs partly on wide main roads: fully closed and quick, but watch for corners and tram tracks. Let the urban crowds carry you to the finish at the Hauptwache in the city centre.

Coach tip

The Baltic is on the cool side in August — the organiser quotes both 18°C and 20–23°C. Wetsuits are allowed up to 24.5°C. Get used to cool open water beforehand: you cannot train on the course itself because of shipping traffic.

Four bike laps with short climbs and descents; the highest point is 51 m. Ride the rollers with a power cap from the start. Some sections may have traffic in your direction and oncoming traffic — keep right.

Cut-offs: swim 2:10 h, swim and bike 9:30 h, finish within 15 hours. Six 7 km run laps with three aid stations each — split the marathon into laps and plan fuelling lap by lap.

Coach tip

The Baltic is on the cool side in August — the organiser quotes both 18°C and 20–23°C. Wetsuits are allowed up to 24.5°C. Get used to cool open water beforehand: you cannot train on the course itself because of shipping traffic.

The bike loop has short climbs and descents; the highest point is 51 m. Ride the rollers with a power cap. Some sections may have traffic in your direction and oncoming traffic — keep right.

Cut-offs: swim 1:10 h, swim and bike 5:30 h, finish within 8 hours. Each run lap has three aid stations, the first with water only — plan your gels around that.

Coach tip

The cooler climate is ideal for personal bests but can get uncomfortable: pack warm clothing for after the race. The very direct, flat bike invites fast riding — still, stay within your power range. Approach the flat city run evenly and under control to hold your pace to the finish.

Coach tip

A support crew is mandatory — plan fuelling, clothing and changes meticulously. The jump from the ferry into the fjord is an unforgettable start: prepare for it mentally. 'Zombie Hill' on the climb from Rjukan is the executioner; ration your energy carefully all the way to the summit.

Coach tip

Flat and fast with very calm, clear lake water — ideal for a first half-distance or a PB. Stay consistently in your aero position on the bike and spread your pace evenly. Use the flat run into the city for a controlled, strong finish in front of the Red Bull Arena.

Coach tip

The flat-to-rolling bike invites a too-fast first loop — hold your target pace.

Coach tip

The two transition areas are about 25 km apart with no public transport: you rack your bike at the reservoir the day before and drop your run kit in Nagold. On race morning in 2026 a bus left Nagold for the start at 5 am — only if booked with your registration. Plan the Saturday around both check-ins.

Three times the steep climb to Mindersbach and the long ascent to Simmersfeld, almost 1,500 m of climbing in all: ride the climbs with a power cap and win the time back on the long descents. Train long rides with sustained climbs. In 2026 you had to start the last lap at the Kleb town park by 1:30 pm.

The marathon passes six times through the Kleb town park and the town centre, with three aid stations per lap (water, cola, isotonic). Outside support on the run course is not allowed, and you set up your special-needs table yourself. Split the run into its six laps — the finish closed at 9:45 pm in 2026.

Coach tip

The transition areas are about 25 km apart with no public transport: you collect your race pack on Saturday from 9 am to noon in the Kleb town park, rack your bike at Erzgrube from 12:30 to 3 pm, and your run kit stays in Nagold. On Sunday a bus leaves Nagold for the start at 7 am, only if booked with your registration. The mass start is at 8:30 am.

About 90 km on fully closed roads, with one lap of the full-distance course and its climbs to Mindersbach and Simmersfeld. Ride the climbs with a power cap so you still have enough left for the half marathon, and train long rides with sustained climbs. There is an aid station at the turnaround in Simmersfeld: water, cola, sports drink, bars, bananas and salty food.

Three laps of about 7 km along the Nagold river and through the town centre, 95 m of climbing in total: split the half marathon into its three laps. Outside support on the run course is not allowed, and a top is compulsory. Without a race licence you pay a €25 day licence on top, and there are no late entries.

Coach tip

The wind on the long Öland Bridge can cost a lot of energy — ride there low, controlled and to power. The bike is flat with some rolling sections on Öland. The crowds carry you to the finish: the 'Heroes Hour' at the line is unforgettable, so enjoy every single metre.

Coach tip

The Kuhsteig is extremely steep — shift into an easy gear early and get out of the saddle if needed. Hold steady power on the rolling bike course rather than burning matches. Enjoy the cult atmosphere and crowds on the climbs; it carries you through the hard kilometres.

Coach tip

Mass start at 10 am in the Müllersee lake at Riegel, two laps over 2.0 km — if you are not a strong swimmer, line up at the back or on the side. Wetsuits are compulsory at 14.0–15.9°C and allowed up to 24.5°C. The water temperature is not logged continuously: the officials decide on race morning and announce it on social media and on notices on site, so be ready for either case. The swim cut-off is 1:10 h.

Three times the same lap, each with a longer climb through the forest, a fast descent and short rollers through the vineyards, 1,119 m of climbing in total — ride the climb on the first lap so you can still ride it the same way on the third. You have 4:30 h for the swim and bike combined. The only aid station is at the entrance to Malterdingen (water, sports drink, bananas), so carry enough of your own. Drafting is not allowed; the draft zone is 12 m.

Two run laps through Malterdingen with 278 m of climbing and four aid stations with water, sports drink, cola, bananas and gels; you may leave your own nutrition there. The transition areas are apart: you collect your race pack only on Saturday, 3–7 pm, at the Malterdingen sports ground and hand in the red run bag there straight away, and you rack your bike at the lake on Sunday from 8 to 9:30 am. Without a race licence you pay a €25 day licence on top. The finish closes after 6:45 h.

Coach tip

In late summer it often gets very hot — plan consistent heat management, drink early and cool yourself at every aid station. Ride the rolling bike evenly and save energy for the run. The flat but largely shadeless lakeside run calls for a conservative, well-rationed pace to avoid blowing up.

Coach tip

Ideal for first-timers and personal bests — flat and fast. On the four-loop city run, watch for cobblestone sections and adjust your stride there. The calm bay swim is beginner-friendly; use the fantastic city atmosphere as motivation across the four laps to the finish.

Coach tip

Hydrate well in the heat and plan consistent heat management — late summer can get very hot. The rolling bike flows nicely: ride evenly to power and save energy for the run. Use the flat, spectator-rich lakeside run to hold a controlled pace all the way to the finish.

Coach tip

Very flat and fast — a strong aero position on the bike is everything here. The regatta-course swim offers calm, clear water, ideal for a steady rhythm. The three-lap run along the regatta course is packed and loud with spectators; use that energy for a powerful finish in the arena.

Coach tip

Steep ramps await on the climb (up to 14%) — pick an easy enough gear and ride the Filzensattel under control. Stay focused on the long descents that follow and conserve energy. The flat lakeside run is fast: this is where you can make up time over the final kilometres.

Coach tip

Flat, fast course in late August — prepare for possible late-summer heat and hold an even pace. Drink early and regularly. As a fitness test before the autumn marathon it's ideal: use it to rehearse race pace and fuelling under genuine competition conditions.

Coach tip

3 km sounds long, but you swim with the current: the organiser says it equals roughly 1.5 to 2 km in the pool for fast swimmers, and exactly how much depends on the Rhine. Keep clear of the bridge piers and stay to the right of the buoys. The organiser recommends swim shoes because the bank is not free of glass, and wetsuits are compulsory below 15.9°C. Practise in moving water beforehand.

According to the provisional schedule you rack your bike on Saturday evening (5–7:30 pm). On Sunday a shuttle takes you from Klybeckstrasse to the swim start, and you get your start time between 8 and 9:15 am by email about three days before. Your transition kit goes in bags. The middle distance needs a licence, which you can buy when you register.

Cut-offs: 7:50 h overall, an average of at least 22 km/h on the bike and no more than 3 hours for the half marathon. The flat, closed bike course allows time-trial bikes — train long stretches in the aero position. The run has a single aid station with water and a sugary drink, so carry your own gels.

Coach tip

The rolling bike course rewards active shifting over constant pressure.

Lake Greifensee is usually pleasantly warm in August.

The run is flat and partly on unpaved paths – choose shoes accordingly.

Coach tip

Flat along the lakeshore — ideal for a PB, so run evenly and find a group. In high summer it can get warm and humid: drink early and regularly and use the aid stations consistently. The picturesque lake scenery helps mentally over the final kilometres to the finish.

The course runs from Velden to Klagenfurt, so start and finish are in different places. Park at Minimundus in Klagenfurt and take the ÖBB train from Klagenfurt West station to Velden, about 17 minutes — the train is free with your race number, also from Villach main station. Hand in your clothes in the start bag in the start area, and they wait for you at the finish in the Strandbad Klagenfurt car park.

Race numbers are handed out only on Friday 12–8 pm and Saturday 9 am–8 pm in the Running City at Metnitzstrand in Klagenfurt, not on race day. The start is on Sunday at 8:45 am, and you can register online until 18 August at the latest, as long as places are left.

Coach tip

Flat does not mean easy here: the Seewinkel is windy, and what the tailwind gives you, the way back takes. Ride to power, not speed, and practise long stretches in the aero position.

The swim is in the spa's bathing lake, not in Lake Neusiedl. Wetsuits are allowed up to 24.5°C and the call is made one hour before the start — do a few open-water sessions without a wetsuit so a ban does not catch you out.

Cut-offs: swim 1:15 h, swim and bike 5:15 h. The flat out-and-back run tempts you into a fast start — run the first of the two laps deliberately under control.

Coach tip

The course is completely flat, but the Seewinkel is windy: what the tailwind gives you on the way out, the way back takes. Ride to power, not speed, and train long sessions in the aero position.

After each of the four swim laps you leave the water briefly and go back in — practise that in open water. Wetsuits are allowed up to 24.5°C. If the water at the exit is too shallow to swim, you may run the last metres.

Cut-offs: swim 2:15 h, swim and bike 10 h, finish closes at 10 pm. Split the marathon into its four 10.5 km laps and plan fuelling and pace lap by lap.

Coach tip

Don't run for a PB here — this is a celebration, and a costume is mandatory. Pace your wine, oysters and steak along the way so you don't overload. Allow plenty of time, soak up the atmosphere of the orchestras and châteaux, and drink enough water in between to stay comfortable.

Coach tip

Control the start and the first kilometers — crowded streets can affect pace. Sections along the Elbe can be windy — steady pacing helps. Bring your own fueling, but use the aid-station rhythm — do not wait too long to drink.

Coach tip

The Rhine swim is longer than usual but faster thanks to the current – sight the exit early.

Closed roads tempt you to overbike, stick to your power target.

The riverside run is flat and offers hardly any shade.

Coach tip

Flat and fast yet brutally honest: on the endless straights your aero position decides everything. Hold it even when your back screams, and ration your effort carefully into any headwind. Mentally tough — break the bike laps into segments and keep a steady rhythm.

Coach tip

This is not a road race but a true mountain marathon — targeted uphill training is essential. Ration your energy, as the steepest section comes late. Plan for changeable high-mountain weather and keep warm clothing ready at the finish; soak up the once-in-a-lifetime panorama.

Coach tip

Pace yourself: the second half is harder, especially the climb between miles 8 and 12. Start in a controlled way even though the downhill opening miles are tempting. The closing coastal stretch is often very windy — run it in the shelter of a group to carry you to the finish.

Coach tip

Flat and fast on newly paved roads — ideal for staying in your aero position and saving watts. The lake swim can be murky, so sight off the buoys. Arriving by suburban train from Berlin is possible: less stress, no parking hassle, and a calmer build-up to your race start.

Coach tip

Pace yourself well on the Col de Vence — ride the long climb steadily and don't over-pace it. The technical descent that follows requires full concentration and ready braking. The flat coastal run on the promenade is low on shade and hot: drink and cool yourself regularly.

Coach tip

Prepare for cold water — a wetsuit is mandatory and face protection helps for the sea swim. The rolling bike is typically English: ride evenly and ration your strength. Plan for wind and rain; in severe weather the swim can be shortened or cancelled, so stay flexible with your race plan.

Coach tip

Practise riding switchbacks and technical descents — here they matter more than pure climbing power. The Col de l'Ecre is the key climb: ration your energy there smartly. The flat run on the Promenade des Anglais is hot and low on shade: drink and cool yourself consistently.

Coach tip

The rolling bike adds up — keep your power in check on the climbs.

Coach tip

Flat with a few tight turns in the old town — ease off the pace there briefly and run cleanly. The Aasee section is scenic and good for an even rhythm. Münster is a cycling city with great local support: the crowd knows how to cheer and pushes you on to the finish.

Coach tip

Flat and fast, except for the short climb to Bertinoro — ride it under control and stay aero otherwise. In September jellyfish can appear in the sea; sight the buoys actively on the swim. Use the flat run to hold an even PB pace and take on fuel regularly throughout.

Coach tip

Stay low and aerodynamic in the wind and use the even course for a personal best.

Coach tip

Records are set here — the wide, closed roads and flat course invite a personal best. You can attack from the gun, but keep your pace even and use groups for drafting. The loud, dense crowds carry you to the finish in the green Fælledparken.

Coach tip

The Adriatic was 24°C on race day in 2025 — right at the wetsuit limit. Do a few open-water sessions without a wetsuit so a ban does not catch you out.

The bike loop has only one real climb: ride it with a power cap and get back into the aero position afterwards. On the flat sections, steady pressure pays more than any surge.

Mid-September can still be above 25°C at midday. Split the flat run into its three laps and plan fuelling and cooling lap by lap.

Coach tip

Control your heart rate on the many hills — pick an easy gear and don't over-pace the climbs. The run is a constant up and down that never lets you settle into a rhythm: ration your effort defensively. The world-famous crowd support carries you through all four run laps.

Coach tip

The course is flat and DLV-measured — good for a PB. Start blocks follow the target time you give at registration: be honest about it and you will run your own pace from the gun.

Half and full marathon share the course until about 500 m before the finish. The marathon pacers still help you: double your half marathon target and follow the matching one.

For the last 4 km or so a half marathon angel can run with you — friends or family pulling you into the stadium. Book one with your entry and agree beforehand where you will meet.

Coach tip

Flat and fast — a PB is possible, but start in a controlled, even way. The many bands along the course give rhythm and energy. Let the 'Marathon Angels' pull you over the final kilometres when the pace gets tough — the musical support genuinely carries you to the finish.

Coach tip

The course is flat enough for a personal best – plan an even pace.

Sections run on hard-packed gravel, a shoe with some grip helps.

Four aid stations on the loop, but fix your own fuelling plan beforehand.

Coach tip

Historic backdrop — you run past Roman landmarks, so let them motivate you. The profile is gently rolling within the city: factor in the short climbs and run evenly. The Porta Nigra as start and finish point is a unique and motivating experience to look forward to.

Coach tip

Run the blue ideal line consistently — it's the shortest officially measured route and saves precious metres. Don't get carried away in the huge starting field; pace yourself evenly. Take on carbohydrates early and regularly at the 15 aid stations along the way.

Coach tip

The fast swim tempts you to overreach — settle into the rolling bike and save yourself for the heat on the run.

Coach tip

Flat along the Weser — good conditions for an even pace and a personal best. North Sea wind is possible, and the second half partly heads toward the coast, so plan for headwind sections. Use the varied city districts as mental stages to break up the distance.

Coach tip

Flat and fast with wide roads — a genuine PB chance, so pace evenly from the start. The Roath Park Lake loop comes late in the race, so keep some reserves there. The spectacular finish at the Civic Centre and loud crowds carry you through the closing kilometres.

Coach tip

Stay out of the penalty tents on the bike — groups form easily on this fast, flat course, so watch your drafting distance meticulously. The warm sea makes for a pleasant swim. The flat seaside run is beautiful but humid: drink regularly and pace yourself evenly to the finish.

Coach tip

Accept heat and humidity early — start with conservative pacing. Wind on the Queen K is the key factor — align aero setup and pacing accordingly. Plan fueling and cooling consistently (ice, water, salt).

Coach tip

Flat, fast PB course. Hold an even pace and avoid going out too hard in the crowded opening kilometres. A strong autumn target for a personal best — let the loud, party-like spectator crowds carry your rhythm through the closing stages.

Coach tip

Flat and mostly along the lakeshore — ideal for an even pace. Three countries in one race is the real charm, and the border crossings provide a welcome distraction. Aid stations are frequent, but bring your own gels to be safe. Watch for wind on the open lakefront stretches.

Coach tip

Flat and fast through the old town — good for an even pace. The section by the clock tower and Schlossberg is a real highlight: lift your head and enjoy the scenery. Watch for corners and surface changes in the narrow old-town lanes, and the course runs smoothly and quickly.

Coach tip

The two-loop course requires mental strength — the second lap feels more familiar, so use that to your advantage in the closing stages. Largely flat through the old town and good for an even pace. Run the first lap conservatively and step it up later if your legs allow.

Coach tip

A lot of wind can come up along the Danube — run in sheltered groups there and keep your pace even. The only climbs are the bridges: meter your effort briefly there. After the finish, you should definitely use the famous thermal baths for recovery!

Coach tip

The Mediterranean swim is usually calm and pleasantly warm.

The bike course features many sharp turns and technical descents. Ride with full focus.

The run is highly energetic with 4 loops. Watch out for a few short ramps and steps.

Coach tip

Istria is still mild in October, but the water is cooler than in summer — plan for a wetsuit.

The rolling bike and run demand even pacing; nobody wins this on a climb.

The trip from Carinthia or Styria is short enough for a long weekend.

Coach tip

The short, steep bike climbs cost energy — pace yourself for the multi-loop run.

Coach tip

A flat course and October temperatures — a date on which a target time can be planned cleanly.

The trip from southern Austria is short enough for a weekend without flying.

The marathon runs two laps; pace it by lap rather than by kilometre.

Coach tip

The Atlantic is rough in October; practise swimming in swell, not just in a lake.

Rolling on both bike and run means no section lets you recover — spread the effort across the whole day.

The full distance runs the same weekend; book accommodation and travel accordingly early.