Stay Well Supplied Throughout 42.195 Kilometres of Berlin
The BMW BERLIN-MARATHON challenges both body and mind over the full 42.195-kilometre distance. Proper hydration plays a crucial role during a marathon-not only for performance, but also for overall well-being and health throughout the race. Personal hydration systems help many runners manage their fluid intake in an individual, flexible, and efficient way.
Hydration at the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON
Especially at the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON in late September, temperatures can vary considerably-from cool autumn conditions to late-summer warmth. That is why it is important to test your personal hydration strategy during training and fine-tune it for race day.
Along the course, 15 refreshment stations provide water, isotonic sports drinks, and additional nutrition. In addition, refill stations are available at the last tables of the water distribution areas, allowing runners to conveniently refill their own hydration systems. These stations are clearly marked with signs and support a more sustainable approach to hydration during the race.
Using personal hydration systems helps reduce the use of single-use cups-an important contribution to greater sustainability at the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON. The refill stations along the course are just one of many measures we are implementing to make our event more sustainable. Learn more about our commitment and sustainability management.
Individual Hydration on the Marathon Course
During a marathon, hydration needs often change throughout the race. Many runners therefore rely on personal hydration systems to drink more regularly and adapt their fluid intake to their pace, the weather, and their individual needs.
Running coach and former elite athlete Ingalena Heuck also recommends not leaving your hydration strategy to chance. She advises regular fluid intake before the race and recommends drinking small amounts continuously during the run while also consuming carbohydrates and electrolytes-especially during long endurance efforts such as a marathon.
Further tips on optimal hydration before and during running can be found in Ingalena Heuck’s interview.
In addition to the refreshment stations along the course, hydration systems offer significant advantages: they enable consistent fluid intake, facilitate electrolyte consumption, and help many runners maintain their rhythm throughout the race.
Types of Personal Hydration Systems
1. Handheld Bottles – Hydration Within Reach Every Kilometre
Handheld bottles are among the simplest hydration solutions for running. These compact bottles are carried in the hand and typically feature practical hand straps for a secure grip.
- Benefits:
- Quick access without interrupting your running rhythm
- Lightweight and minimalist feel
- Easy to refill at aid stations
- Ideal for runners who prefer minimal equipment
- Reusable and therefore more sustainable than single-use cups
2. Waist Belts and Hydration Belts – Free Hands and Even Weight Distribution
Hydration belts and waist systems are particularly popular for long-distance running. The small bottles fit snugly against the body and provide balanced weight distribution without compromising running comfort.
- Benefits:
- Free hands for a natural running style
- Comfortable fit even over many kilometres
- Additional storage space for gels or personal items
- Flexible combination of multiple bottles
- Particularly suitable for consistent hydration during a marathon
3. Hydration Vests and Running Packs – Maximum Support Over Long Distances
Over 42 kilometres, small details can make a big difference to the overall race experience. That is why many marathon runners choose hydration vests or running packs equipped with hydration reservoirs or soft flasks.
At the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON, these systems offer several advantages: they allow runners to drink continuously in small amounts, provide additional storage space for gels or clothing, and deliver a high level of comfort even during prolonged exertion.
- Benefits:
- Continuous hydration without stopping
- Large capacity for longer sections of the race
- Practical storage for nutrition and personal belongings
- Ergonomic fit with excellent freedom of movement
- Ideal for individual nutrition and hydration strategies
4. Soft Flasks – Flexible, Lightweight, and Highly Comfortable
Soft flasks have become one of the most popular hydration solutions in endurance sports. These flexible bottles adapt to their contents while drinking and become increasingly compact as they empty.
- Benefits:
- Exceptionally lightweight
- No distracting liquid sloshing
- Space-saving and easy to store
- Comfortable feel thanks to soft materials
- Ideal in combination with running vests or hydration belts
Where to Find the Right Equipment?
If you are still looking for the right equipment, you are sure to find it at the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON EXPO. Numerous exhibitors will showcase hydration vests, soft flasks, and many other products related to hydration in endurance sports. The EXPO offers the perfect opportunity to explore different models, try them on, receive expert advice, and purchase the equipment that best suits your needs.
Find out more information about the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON EXPO by BRITA.
Conclusion: Your Hydration Strategy for the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON
Whether you choose a handheld bottle, hydration belt, soft flask, or hydration vest, the right hydration system can make the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON significantly more comfortable. Over the full 42.195 kilometres, a well-planned hydration strategy helps runners maintain performance and stay in their rhythm.
At the same time, reusable hydration systems make an important contribution to the event’s sustainability by reducing the consumption of single-use cups. Combined with the refreshment stations and refill points along the course, they create a flexible and modern hydration solution for one of the world’s largest marathon races.
