The Berlin Marathon is one of the biggest marathons in the world.
Held every year since 1874, it attracts over 40,000 runners from around the globe.
This race has become a symbol of endurance, strength, and the awesome potential of the human physique.
Berlin is located on the River Spree and offers many parks and gardens that are great places to run.
It is known for its beautiful architecture, vibrant nightlife, and delicious food.
This means contestants in the race will have plenty of opportunities to explore the city and enjoy some downtime before and after the marathon.
If you’re interested in running this marathon, then this article is here to tell you everything you need to know about it.
We will offer some helpful tips on how to prepare for this event, as well as telling you how to register.
When Is The Next Berlin Marathon?
The 2022 Berlin Marathon is scheduled to take place on Sunday, the 25th of September.
There are also a selection of mini activities’ and smaller marathons that take place on the previous Saturday.
As of right now, the 2022 Berlin Marathon has completed its ballot and isn’t accepting any more runners.
Those who wish to join this historic race, but haven’t already registered, will need to wait for the ballot for next year’s race to reopen.
How Long Is The Berlin Marathon?
This marathon is held annually, with the starting and finishing line located near the Brandenburg Gate in the center of the metropolis.
The route takes runners all around the city, passing locations such as Charlottenburg, and Friedrichshain in the southern portion of the city.
It then goes west through areas such as Kreuzberg and Zehlendorf before looping around Schoenberg and heading back to the Brandenburg Gate.
The total distance of this race is 42.195 km, 26 miles or 385 yards.
How To Register For The Berlin Marathon
There are a few different ways that you can apply to run in the next Berlin Marathon.
The most popular method for anyone over the age of 18 is through the lottery system.
Since this event is so popular, with candidates from all over the world taking part, the selection process is somewhat randomized to give everybody a fair chance.
You can enter your ballot to run by going to the official Berlin Marathon website and making an account.
When making this account you will be asked for your personal information, including your name, date of birth, gender, nationality, email address, and phone number.
You must be at least 18 years old to be considered for the Marathon.
It is also very important that you don’t submit multiple registration forms, so if you wish to enter the race as an individual, you can’t also do so as a member of a team.
This is to make sure that everybody who wants to run in the race has a fair chance of being accepted.
When you are entering the ballot, you will need to pay a registration fee of €150 (or $166.42).
This entry fee is to make sure that you are committed to running the race and is intended to weed out joke applications or people trying to spam multiple ballots.
You will only actually be charged if you are offered a starting place in the race.
If your application is not accepted for any reason, then your direct debit details will be deleted from the registration system, and you will not be charged.
While you are registering, you will have a choice to apply for a number of interesting extras.
The standard marathon pack will give you an Adidas running shirt for wearing during the event, as well as a commemorative jacket to celebrate your achievement.
You can also request a medal with your finishing time engraved on the front, as well as photo packs, HD videos of the race and much more for a small additional fee.
Other Ways To Apply
Entering the lottery is one of the main ways to sign up for the Berlin Marathon, but it isn’t the only way.
In fact, there are several other methods available to those who want to participate in the race.
For a start, if you have a registered charity that would be willing to sponsor you for the race, this will allow you to bypass the ballot system.
Professional runners who have a tour operator can also enter the race without needing to cast a ballot.
If you are very good at running, you could register as an AIMS certified fast runner.
Doing this will allow you to apply for the Marathon without paying a registration fee or casting a ballot.
However, to do this you will need to provide proof of your running skills and that you can complete the race under a specified time.
The proof that you use for this cannot be more than three years old, and the necessary speed you will have to demonstrate depends on your gender and age.
Below you will find the required time limit you must be able to beat the marathon within if you want to qualify as an AIMS fast runner for each demographic:
- Men under 44 years old – 2 hours and 45 minutes.
- Men under 59 years old – 2 hours and 55 minutes.
- Men aged 60 and above – 3 hours and 25 minutes.
- Women under 44 years – 3 hours.
- Women under 59 years – 3 hours and 20 minutes.
- Women aged 60 and above – 4 hours and 10 minutes.
Who Can Enter The Berlin Marathon?
The Berlin Marathon takes place every year in September, which means that you need to be fit enough to run 26 miles in under six hours.
You should also be prepared for the weather conditions in Germany because they can change quickly.
Anyone over the age of 18 can cast a ballot to enter the race.
It should be noted that you will only count as having finished the race if you can complete it within the 6 hour and 15 minute time limit.
Walkers can also take part in the race provided they can still complete it within this time limit, although certified Nordic walkers will not be allowed to compete.
You can also enter the race with a hand bike or wheelchair should you wish.
These are the only bits of sporting equipment that participants are allowed to use during the marathon, and those not using them will have to rely on their legs and trainers to see them through.
Teams of up to 2-3 people can also cast a joint ballot for entering the race.
Each team member will be scored individually and even if one of your teammates drops out it won’t affect your time or ability to participate in the marathon.
How To Prepare For The Berlin Marathon?
In this section, we have included some top tips for getting ready to run in this historic marathon.
Following this advice may not guarantee you will beat any records, but it will help you to be more prepared and ready for the challenges this marathon has to offer when the day arrives.
Create A Training Plan
Before you even think about registering for the race, you need to create a training plan.
It’s important to have a realistic idea of how much time you can dedicate to training before the big day arrives.
Find A Running Partner
Running with someone else can be an excellent way to motivate yourself and keep track of your progress.
However, if you don’t know anyone who runs, try joining a running group online.
Eat Right
You should eat well before you start preparing for the race.
Make sure you consume enough carbohydrates so that you won’t feel hungry during the race.
Get Enough Sleep
You’ll need at least eight hours of sleep each night to perform optimally when you’re training.
Try to avoid caffeine after noon, as it may prevent you from getting quality rest.
Stay Hydrated
Drink water throughout the day and make sure you stay hydrated by drinking lots of sports drinks.
Avoid sugary beverages like soda and juice because they contain too much sugar.
Dress Appropriately
It’s important to dress appropriately for the weather conditions.
Pack layers that you can remove depending on the temperature. Wear comfortable shoes that provide good support and cushioning.
Don’t Overtrain
Overtraining can lead to injuries and stress fractures. So, make sure you give your body ample recovery time between workouts.
Practice Good Form
Practice proper form while running. Pay attention to your posture and breathing.
Your feet should land under your hips and your knees should bend slightly.
Train Properly
Don’t train too hard or too fast. Instead, focus on building up your mileage gradually.
Have Fun!
Enjoy the experience of running a marathon. Be excited about the challenge ahead of you, but don’t forget to have fun along the way.
Conclusion
The Berlin Marathon is one of the most prestigious marathons in the world.
If you want to qualify for the event, then you now have everything you need to know about how to register for a place on the starting line.
If you are accepted to run, then it is a good idea to start your training from the moment you get the email.
Being properly prepared will not only increase your chances of getting a good time, but it will also make the experience a lot more fun.
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