From the bustling streets of London to the vibrant roads of Manchester, April 2025 brought together tens of thousands of runners, each with their own goals, stories, and kit essentials. In this roundup, we’ll discuss how athletes like Cole and Ruth showed just how powerful preparation, determination, and the right gear can be. Join us as we celebrate their incredible achievements and share insights from both races, along with tips and gear recommendations to help you get ready for your own marathon journey next year.
London Marathon 2025
The 27th April saw thousands of runners and spectators attend one of the world’s largest Abbott World Marathon Majors. Starting at Greenwich, runners compete on a fast and flat terrain of 26.2 miles, with an elevation gain of 246 feet, before finishing near Buckingham Palace.
Despite having 8 hours to complete the marathon, our ambassador, Cole, ran a very respectable 2:16.52, coming 25th overall and was the 9th Brit across the line. He completed the marathon wearing the Adios Pro 4 and the Coros Pace Pro. Here’s what Cole thought of the race:
“I thought I was in trouble after a couple of miles. The legs felt heavy and I seemed quite a long way back in the field.But as the race progressed, it’s like they came alive, and by halfway, I’d started passing people I expected to finish in front of me. I never once thought I was going to fade and knew that once I got to 5 miles to go, I was almost home and dry (bar any major catastrophes). At that point, I wasn’t worried about pushing on, just maintaining an even effort.It was a surreal experience passing athletes that I look up to and inspire me. But it’s a reminder that my day will come to enter the paincave, and I need to be ready for it. Not all performances can be a 10/10, but luckily this one was 🙌🏻”
Manchester Marathon 2025
Taking place on the same day but in the Northwest, the adidas Manchester Marathon also saw 36,000 runners take part in a 26.2 mile run - the UK's second largest marathon and one of Europe's largest. Starting at the Old Trafford football stadium and finishing at Manchester University, one of those 36,000 runners was our competition prize winner, Ruth, who said:
“Thank you so much to Start Fitness for my Manchester Marathon place! I had the absolute best time, the crowds were amazing and so loud for every single mile, and although the weather was hot and I think it did affect some people’s PB chances, the atmosphere more than made up for it. I thought the Marshalls were absolutely amazing and I absolutely love the Manchester course. I knew I wasn’t quite in PB shape this year so I decided to really soak up the atmosphere and it was the best thing I could’ve done. My kit was absolutely amazing, the best I’ve ever worn for a marathon, especially the top which kept my phone really safe and for once I had no chafing on my legs because of that. My shorts carried all my gels easily and I felt much cooler than I would’ve done in my usual kit. Thank you so much!”
Ruth’s marathon kit was all about helping her feel light, comfortable, and confident from start to finish. Her Adidas Adizero Pro shoes gave her the boost she needed with every step, as they’re light and springy, they helped her keep up the pace even in the toughest miles. The Adizero Gel Pocket Running Shorts were breathable enough to stay cool and comfy throughout the race, and the Adizero Socks were soft, supportive, and moisture-wicking.
If you fancy your chances at becoming one of our competition winners, follow our Instagram page and keep your eyes peeled for our giveaways. You could be featured in one of our blogs, just like Ruth.
Planning to run a marathon next year?
If you’re hoping to take part in one of these marathon events next year, you can sign up for the London Marathon by entering the ballot for 2026, or you can register for updates on entry for the Manchester Marathon on their website.
In the meantime, we recommend that you commence your training. Our blog has plenty of useful and informative pieces to help you on your way, such as:
- A Comprehensive Guide to the Abbott World Marathon Majors
- How to choose a running event
- Marathon checklist: everything you need when packing for a running event
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A 16-week marathon training plan for all levels
Of course, we also offer a wide range of kit, so that you can train efficiently. From race day shoes and running clothes to training shoes and hydration gels, find what you’re looking for in our running collection.