Massage journal · the Crigan Massaggi blog

Turin Marathon: history, course and why massage matters

The Turin Marathon (Torino City Marathon) is one of Italy’s oldest and fastest road races. Start and finish in Piazza Castello, 42.195 km on a mostly flat course that passes Lingotto, Stupinigi, Moncalieri and Parco del Valentino. Here you will find historical facts, technical details and the role of sports massage for those preparing for or recovering from the 42 km.

By Mihail Crigan, sports massage practitioner in Turin · 15 October 2026

Start of the Turin Marathon in Piazza Castello with runners and historic palaces
Start of the Turin Marathon in Piazza Castello.Illustrative image generated with AI

History of the Turin Marathon

The roots of the race go back to 1897, when the first Italian pedestrian championship was held in Turin, organised by the Unione Pedestre Torinese over about 35 km towards None. In 1919 the competition officially took the name Maratona di Torino.

Over the decades the course has been modified several times until the current loop that starts and finishes in the city centre. Since 2014 it has been included by FIDAL in the Marathons of Art Cities circuit and is in the World Athletics Global Calendar. The next edition is scheduled for Sunday 29 November 2026, with the start at 8:30.

Turin Marathon runner near the Palazzina di Stupinigi in autumn
Passing near the Palazzina di Stupinigi.Illustrative image generated with AI

Course and technical aspects 2026

The official course is 42.195 km, FIDAL certified, considered one of the fastest in Italy thanks to long straight sections and limited elevation (about 180-200 m of climb). Start behind Piazza San Carlo / via Pietro Micca, finish in Piazza Castello in front of the Royal Palace.

It touches iconic places: Giardini La Marmora, Lingotto/Stellantis area, Beinasco, Borgaretto, Palazzina di Stupinigi, Moncalieri, the Po riverbank, Parco del Valentino and the royal gardens. Typical time limit around 5h30. On the same day the half marathon and the City Run (about 5 km) are also held.

Interactive course

Press the button below to open the 3D video of the real Turin Marathon course (full flyover).

▶ OPEN THE COURSE

It opens right below this section

Real course of the Turin Marathon

3D video of the route (Google Earth flyover of the 2025 course). Press play to see the full course step by step.

Source: GO&Race. The 2026 course is very similar. For the official interactive map check torinocitymarathon.it.

Official Marathon website
Sports massage on a runner's calf after the marathon
Recovery with sports massage after the 42 km.Illustrative image generated with AI

Why massage is important for marathon runners

A marathon creates a huge load on calves, quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes and IT band. Sports massage does not replace training, stretching or correct shoes, but it can help manage muscle tension.

At Crigan Massaggi in Turin (Borgo San Paolo) we use sports massage, deep tissue massage and, if needed, neck massage for posture-related tension. 60-minute session at 60 €, by appointment only at Via Monginevro 76/F.

Read also: running biomechanics and sports massage.

Frequently asked questions

When is the Turin Marathon 2026?

Sunday 29 November 2026, start at 8:30 from Piazza Castello / via Pietro Micca.

Is massage better before or after the marathon?

Before: preparatory. Immediately after: light. Deeper work a couple of days later if the body tolerates it.

Is the course flat?

Yes, it is considered one of the fastest in Italy, with long straights and limited elevation.

Google reviews

4,9 / 5

average of 228 reviews

What do clients say about Crigan Massaggi?

On Google, Crigan Massaggi in Turin has an average of 4,9 out of 5 from 228 reviews. They are public and can be read on the studio listing before you book.

Read reviews on Google

By appointment

Preparing for the Turin Marathon?

Tell Mihail Crigan about your training plan and where you feel tightness. Studio at Via Monginevro 76/F: 60 minutes, 60 €.

Call +39 334 858 8535WhatsAppContact form