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MY JOURNEY - "I was really starting to have fun."

38 days. 38 fates. 38 stories to the 41st BMW BERLIN-MARATHON

2014-08-22

© Andreas Schindler

"I have been running since 2006, a good 8 years ago, when I was 19. I simply wanted to be in better shape and to look a little fitter.  So I started jogging, first for about 10 minutes on a treadmill at the gym, then later I began taking short runs around the lake, usually about 4-6 kilometers; and at some point, the runs got more frequent and I was really starting to have fun.

I had the idea to run the BERLIN MARATHON about eight years ago, because it is simply THE marathon! Everyone is always talking about it and I wanted to run it someday too. In 2013, I finally did the BERLIN MARATHON for the first time—and what a great experience it was!

Nowadays, I run about 5 or 6 times a week, with weekly distances between 50 and 90 kilometres. My favourite route is around the lake, Hofer Untreusee. The countryside is beautiful there and the course is versatile.  The time of day I run varies because of my job as a trainer with different shifts: so sometimes I run mornings, sometimes in the evening, but my favourite time to run is into the sunset. I am more the classic evening runner and not a big morning person. I currently do not have anyone to train with, so I run on my own. But I also am not someone who needs someone to train with, as I enjoy just running with my music and concentrating entirely on my running.

For me, running is living! Running gives me the balance I need for my daily life. I forget all my problems and worries, or at least they bother me less. Running is good for my body and soul. The marathon is a special challenge—not only for the competition, but the preparation as well.

I am really looking forward to the entire race, as the atmosphere along the whole course is amazing. But one thing is for sure: When you hit kilometer 41.5 and the Brandenburg Gate comes into view, you are going to get goose bumps.“

Andreas Schindler is 27 years old, professional massager and fitness trainer and has been faszinated by the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON ever since he started to run.