Who Said Girls Can’t Race?
See how four non-runners took on the challenge of training for the Berlin Marathon and learned to go that extra mile.
Busy days at work can make it seem like we are constantly running a marathon: tight deadlines, endless meetings and a phone that doesn’t stop ringing. We all have our own ways of dealing with this type of pressure. Some have perfect time management skills, others prep in the evenings and some make replying to emails part of their weekend. However, many add sport and especially running to their busy days as they understand the benefits of training relentlessly for a real race.
Simone, Claudia, Larissa and Laura are four women doing just that. The Berlin Marathon on September 24 is the goal, with the help of the ‘Who Said Girls Can’t Race’project, which prepares 35 women from six cities across Europe to run their first marathon in a holistic and supportive fashion. Ahead of the final stretch towards their race, the four marathon debutants have shared their thoughts on simultaneously balancing work, sports and their private life.
“This project has been a key factor for them all to gain confidence, motivation and the drive to finish what they start.”Victor Krogmann, Intern at adidas
Simone on sport-life balance
“At the moment, there are a lot of things happening in my life. Many weekends are blocked for long runs or other running events, I’ve found I’ve been cancelling things with friends, because I need to go to bed early and eat a portion of pasta instead of Mexican and a glass of wine. But my friends are supportive and understanding and I’m actually enjoying the tough preparation. Races and events are extremely fun and the other girls have grown close to my heart.”
Larissa on sport-work balance
“My life is currently being adapted to my training plan. Long runs are very time-intensive and I try to integrate these into my everyday life. I now take longer lunch breaks and then leave work later in the evening in time or catch up at home.”
“I love a challenge so either I do it completely - or not at all!”Larissa, 'Who Said Girls Can't Race' runner
Claudia on finding new sporting highs
“I’ve had to do a lot to improve my basic endurance, as my body was used to different stimuli. I had to completely change my training and put it back with many other activities. Because the focus is now on the running and cardiovascular training.”
“My highlight so far was the Berlin City Night. It was so nice to exchange with the other girls about your experience and the challenges you faced in the preparation – you felt rightly understood!”
Simone on building relationships
“When I run next to my new training buddy, I’m more motivated by the fact that she pushes me and smiles and it always looks so simple and fun with her, and that gives me such a motivation boost. It gives me so much self-confidence.”
“I love having the security of the group.”Simone, 'Who Said Girls Can't Race' runner
Laura on being inspired by others
“The girls inspire me a lot. We are all very different types of people, yet we fit together perfectly. Everyone is fighting their own battles but we constantly motivate each other to see the light at the end of the tunnel. It’s a very inspiring experience for me.”
All four are now racing for success not just on the tarmac of Berlin but in their work and private lives. As Claudia explains: “The group make-up has helped me in many life situations. I’ve learned to go the extra mile.”
Keep up with the 'Who Said Girls Can't Race' team
Follow the girls’ progress and the other 31 runners from the Who Said Girls Can’t Race team at the Berlin Marathon on September 24 via Instagram
@adidasrunnersde
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