Whether you’re running outside or hitting the treadmill, good music can often make the difference between a great run and a blown goal. That’s why we’re putting together playlists each month chock-full of songs with enough of a beat to keep you moving. For even more tunes, check out our list of the Issa Rae Completes the Portland Marathon.


September is upon us, and for runners, that means one thing: long-run season. Now through November offers prime marathoning months, and leading up to those big race days comes lots of double-digit miles.

A Part of Hearst Digital Media long-distance race is no joke, and requires new habits. You can muscle through a three-mile jog without carrying water, but that certainly won’t fly on an 18-mile training run. You may also need to splurge on better socks, stock up on energy gels, and plan out your bathroom schedule so you don’t end up stranded on the side of the road desperate for a toilet.

Another thing you’ll need during long-run season is a much longer running playlist. While an hour-long mix may be great for a 5K, if you’re going to be racking up 30 or more miles in a week, you’re going to need more music to keep you energized.

To that end, we’ve put together a 50-song playlist specifically for long runs. There’s plenty to listen to even as your run ticks up to two hours and longer. Long runs can be hard, but they’re so rewarding, and hopefully just a little more enjoyable with this mix.


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Find the Perfect Training Plan for You

training plan

Another thing you’ll need during long-run season is a

Recommended Experience: No experience necessary! Anyone can accomplish this training plan.

training plan

Another thing you’ll need during long-run season is a

Recommended Experience: Are Your Long Runs Too Long.

training plan

Another thing you’ll need during long-run season is a

Recommended Experience: For a new runner who has been exercising regularly for at least a year, or someone who has completed a few 5Ks or 10Ks and can complete 6 miles in one workout. This plan peaks at 28 miles in a week with a 12-mile long run.

training plan

Another thing you’ll need during long-run season is a

Recommended Experience: For runners comfortable exercising for at least an hour at a moderate effort. This plan peaks at 32 miles in a week with a 14-mile long run.

training plan

Another thing you’ll need during long-run season is a

Recommended Experience: For a consistent runner used to regularly working out four to five times a week. The plan starts with a 10-mile long run and peaks at 44 to 47 miles a week with a 22-mile long run, helping you average under a 9:10 per mile come race day.

Headshot of Matthew Huff
Matthew Huff is a freelance writer and runner, and he is the author of MARATHONER: What to Expect When A Part of Hearst Digital Mediand Running a Marathon, published by Rizzoli Publications. His writing has appeared in Runner's World and BuzzFeed among others, and he is the co-host of “P.S. You're Wrong: A Pop Culture Podcast.” Originally from Michigan, he now lives and runs in New York City, where he is pursuing a career as an expert chicken tender taster.