Marathon running differs from sprint events in several key aspects, primarily in the race distance and pacing requirements. A marathon typically covers 26.2 miles, emphasizing endurance, mental resilience, and strategic pacing, as athletes aim to maintain a consistent speed throughout the long duration. In contrast, sprint events last for much shorter distances, focusing on explosive speed and quick acceleration over a brief time frame. This fundamental difference influences training regimens, nutrition plans, and racing strategies for athletes.