Marathon Set Duration

Compared across 3 organizations. Competition Format & Structure category.

Rule Text by Organization

GSU Girevoy Sport Union

GSU recognizes full marathon events of 60 minutes duration. If the athlete puts the kettlebell down before the 60 minutes are over, the set is terminated and the score is zero. Athletes may switch hands as often as they like during marathon events.

60 minutes

IKLF International Kettlebell Lifting Federation

BOLT Marathon endurance events range from 30 minutes to 6 hours.

30-360 minutes

IKMF International Kettlebell Marathon Federation

The IKMF Marathon is a 60-minute continuous set. The athlete must lift for the entire 60 minutes without putting the kettlebell(s) down. If the kettlebell is set down before time expires, the athlete is disqualified and the score becomes 0.

60 minutes

Comparison Analysis

Marathon formats vary from 30 minutes to 6 hours depending on the organization.

Duration options

IKMF: 60-minute marathon standard, plus Extreme (2h+). IKLF: 30min, 60min, up to 6 hours. GSU: 60-minute marathon.

What All Organizations Agree On

  • All three organizations offer a 60-minute marathon format
Most Strict: IKMFKB down voids ALL reps in marathon — the most punishing set-down rule
Most Lenient: IKLFOffers the widest range of marathon durations including 6-hour events

Athlete Impact: Marathon athletes should note that IKMF's "KB down = zero score" rule is the most punishing. Under IKLF, the kettlebell can be set down. Duration options favor IKLF for those wanting ultra-endurance.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Girevoy Sport Union (GSU) define marathon set duration?

GSU recognizes full marathon events of 60 minutes duration. If the athlete puts the kettlebell down before the 60 minutes are over, the set is terminated and the score is zero. Athletes may switch hands as often as they like during marathon events.

How does International Kettlebell Lifting Federation (IKLF) define marathon set duration?

BOLT Marathon endurance events range from 30 minutes to 6 hours.

How does International Kettlebell Marathon Federation (IKMF) define marathon set duration?

The IKMF Marathon is a 60-minute continuous set. The athlete must lift for the entire 60 minutes without putting the kettlebell(s) down. If the kettlebell is set down before time expires, the athlete is disqualified and the score becomes 0.

See the interactive comparison on KETTLEBELL MONSTER™ for filterable views and more detail.

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