Beach body season is creeping up on us and that can only mean one thing: the hibernation fat has to go. Easier for some, harder for others (metabolism’s a bummer, ladies), the goal is one, and that is to get fit.

The Athens half marathon comes to the rescue once again, on Sunday 18th of March. And it does so in style and grandeur, as it should be for the authentic event. Starting and finishing in the central square of Syntagma, this 21 km race will test your limits and possibly even give you something you didn’t have before. Patience and a strong mind should see you past the finish line at around the 3 hour mark, but don’t fret if you take longer. Families and friends can track your progress through various apps, to find out exactly where you are. This is especially handy for slow runners (why you looking at me?) as medical aid can be quickly dispatched in case you’re gassed (no, there’s no riots).

If that’s too much for you, you can fall back on the less demanding 5 and 3 k races (there is also one for disable people).

The half marathon is a city affair. In contrast to the authentic race where you start in Marathon, this one takes you around the city center a couple times. Feed zones at 7 points should help you out, seeing as spring is coming with a bang this year. It’s important to stay hydrated, so heed the warning.

This year approximately 20,000 runners are expected to take part, as always with a strong international contingent that may or may not include celebrities.

As always, it’s important to remember to wear comfortable running shoes and adequate gear. There’s nothing more frustrating that getting foiled by poor planning. Finishing the race will give you wings and set you up for more daunting tasks ahead.

Athens Half Marathon: Conquer Ancient Streets in the Race of Legends

Who said Greece was a doddle?

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