“Then I ran my first 5km race and from then on I was totally obsessed with running”
After several failed attempts to start running solo, I decided to invite my friend to run together. It was more fun, especially as it gave us an excuse to hit the pub afterwards for a 'recovery' beer. But after a month our paths began to diverge - I became more serious about running, while my friend became more of a beer specialist. Then I ran my first 5km race and from then on I was totally obsessed with running.
For me, running is the way to unleash those primal screams we all pretend don't exist. There's nothing quite like the feeling of tranquillity and peace after a morning run. It's like therapy, but cheaper. Running is also the ultimate super-glue - I've made more friends running than I've ever made at those awkward water cooler chats.
What I like most about running is the chance to explore new places. Sure, running in circles in the park is fine and all, but there's something exciting about discovering new spots during an easy run.
Berlin offers amazing opportunities to explore the urban fabric. You've got everything from the sweet Kleingartens, renewed old harbours and sprawling farm fields to the districts that still have the legacy of the Wall. My average run in Berlin is like a tour through all these different landscapes.
Aesthetically, I like to emphasise my tall, long-legged build, sometimes in a ridiculously exaggerated way. I prefer solid colours with subtle accents like glasses or sneakers to look serious about this running business. Functionally, I'm all about staying cool - when it comes to clothing, ventilation and absorption are my top priorities. I love transformer/combination garments that you can mix and match depending on the intensity of your training and the weather.
