Berlin Marathon marked the beginning of an unprecedented chain of marathon races, with 5 of the 6 major marathons taking place over a period of 42 days. This also marked the first trip for the Curated for Runners team to a major marathon event, thanks to our friends at Top 4 Running. We Were lucky enough to visit the Top 4 Running team at their new store, several days before a few of us tackled 26.2 miles. 

Being based in London, we have access to a generous amount of running stores. But none of these are at the level of the newly opened Top 4 Running store in Berlin. As you enter the store, you’re welcomed with probably the biggest arsenal of running shoes you’ll ever see, with almost every running brand you can think of. The shoes on offer cater for all distances, terrains and every carbon plated shoe thinkable. 

This may feel daunting to new runners, but Top 4 Running proved expert tools in store to assist runners with their choice of shoe. Offering a complete 3D running analysis and biomechanical profile in less than a minute, without any markers  - preventing you from looking like you’re wearing a motion capture suit for the next Avatar film. For those of you interested in the tech: the system uses depth cameras that allows quality motion data to be obtained without body markers, making motion capture easier and faster than ever. This then provides running economy data based on total mechanical work and elastic energy exchange calculations. But not to worry, with the help from the staff at Top 4 Running, they translate all the running jargon into layman terms to help you select the right shoe for you. 

Fast-forward 2 days on our trip and its race day for myself and Hafi, accompanied by our cheer squad. The sun was beating down throughout the day, and temperatures climbed from 16°C/60°F to 21°C/69°F - not ideal running conditions. This showed even for the elites, as Adola’s winning time of 2:05:45 was the slowest in Berlin since 2009. Despite the heat being another curb for the runners, it was a bonus for all the spectators lining the streets. It was truly amazing seeing the community around Berlin come together to cheer on all the runners. 

The course is famously known for being flat - but with the occasional hill allowing you to make up time on the decline. As far as fuelling goes, Berlin Marathon covered all bases at each station, but they seemed extra busy due to the heat. The ambitious marathon runner must rely on carrying their own fuel, however this year for the first time Maurten Gel and drink mix was on offer at selected aid stations. 

There is no feeling like it when you finish a marathon, especially in Berlin. This has been my best race experience by far! A massive congratulations to everyone who ran/volunteered/cheered at the Berlin Marathon. And best of luck to those taking on London this weekend. 

Photography: @fln.krs