The 5 most difficult marathons on the planet

All marathon are difficult, but these ones are very close to being impossible.

The SSE Airtricity Dublin Marathon is just around the bend and many of the athletes taking part are probably thinking that this is the most difficult challenge they will ever face. That could be true, unless they ever decide to tackle these 5 marathons.

The Great Wall Marathon

There are 5,000 steps to tackle during this ridiculously difficult marathon. If that isn't tough enough, the temperature of the wall can reach sweltering conditions. Never have we been so glad of Dublin's moderate climate. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SNlRmIwDWIE Clip via AdventureMarathon

The North Pole Marathon

This run takes place every April and is known throughout the world as one of the most difficult marathons anywhere. This is because it ran on massive ice floes which float on the Arctic Sea. Crazy, eh? What's even crazier is that runners have to keep an eye out for hungry polar bears while completing the course. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x59ayASKdNo Clip via Richard Donovan

Antarctic Ice Marathon

Going from one pole to the other, the South has proven that their marathon is no mean feat either. If running on ice and snow for over 26 miles isn't your thing, then we'd suggest giving this one a miss. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VfrOxDUJzOg Clip via NowThis

Pikes Peak Marathon Colorado

So, you start a mile above sea level and then you continue to run upwards for the duration. It sounds about as much fun as getting eaten by a polar bear at the North Pole. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qOl-AlXaYPA Clip via PikesPeakSports

Inca Trail Marathon Peru

26.2 miles of stone steps through hilly terrain in the South American heat sounds like a unique form of torture. Nonetheless, we can only imagine the satisfaction these runners have when they finish their course. It is a fantastic achievement. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8YThd20WqmA Clip via Erik Rasmussen So there you have it, the 5 most difficult marathons on the planet. Despite their difficulty, we must say, we would love to try them. You can get more information about the marathon and find entry forms here. Our team's training schedules will be posted weekly on the SSE Airtricity website so be sure to follow their progress and replicate their training plans.