5 Reasons why Training for a Marathon is like Managing a Project
As a project manager and a marathon runner, I've come to realize that the mindset and discipline needed to cross a marathon finish line are surprisingly similar to the ones required to deliver successful projects.
How is that so? How can they be related?
On the surface, they seem worlds apart—one is about physical and mental endurance, the other strategic and organizational.
But if you a bit dig deeper, you'll start to see that they share some similarities.
Here are five reasons why marathon training is a perfect metaphor for project management:
1. Clear Goal and Milestones
Just like every project has a defined objective and timeline, marathon training starts with a finish line in mind.
You know you need to run 42 kilometers.
You need to prepare a plan.
You set target milestones to achieve such as being able to run 5, 10, 15, 21, 30 and then 35 kilometers. Much like using a project management software such as MS Project or Asana you can use your fitness tracker such as Garmin Connect or Strava to track your progess.
2. Planning and Preparation Are Everything
Running a marathon without training is a recipe for failure—just like jumping into a project without a plan.
Project managers map out deliverables and resources, marathoners plan nutrition, gear, and recovery strategies.
Success in both comes down to preparation, not improvisation.
3. Risk Management Matters
Training for marathons include several risks that may materialize: injury, burnout, or illnesses.
Likewise, every project has potential risks—scope creep, resource constraints, or shifting priorities.
How do we mitigate against these risks?
Anticipating issues and having contingency plans is essential in both worlds.
4. Consistency Over Intensity
You don’t run a marathon by sprinting—it’s about pacing yourself, day in and day out.
Project management also values consistency, making steady progress by holding regular cadences for status updates.
Maintaining momentum is more sustainable than last-minute heroics to get a deliverable in.
5. Mental Toughness and Adaptability
Both marathon training and project execution demand resilience. When things go off course—whether it’s a rainy training day or a stakeholder throwing a curveball—adaptability and mental perseverance separate finishers from quitters.
So in conclusion? Whether you're leading a team to deliver results or training to beat a personal record, they both require mental grit to cross the finish line.
Now who’s down to go for a run? :)
