Today was the third day of the Top4Running x Adidas Paris Challenge. Runners of all levels joined today's Easy Run, with the mission to complete 5 kilometers, already accumulating 15 kilometers this week.
The idea today was to check out the course, adapt to the pace and enjoy the best that Paris has to offer for running enthusiasts. This morning, with a clear sky, we moved away from the Seine to wander the streets. We tell you all about it on our social networks, and of course, on RUNNEA.
The plan for this week was simple: split the 20 kilometers into four 5 km runs. The last one, tomorrow, will be a race, and will take one of the three routes we've done so far today. So it was time for the last reconnaissance route, and although the legs are already feeling the effort of the previous days, there were several runners present.
We started with the last rehearsal before the big day. The starting point, as the previous days, was the Top4Running store, located in the heart of Paris, near Les Halles. It's a very central area, with really nice buildings.
From 8:00 AM, people were arriving to the meeting point, in front of the store. Pau Capdevila, the trainer of the event, took a few minutes to do a briefing of the start, before leading a warm-up. A few mobility exercises later, we were ready for our Easy Run.
As yesterday's strategy worked wonders, we again split into groups according to our paces to make sure everyone could enjoy the course without pressure.
In my case, I again acted as a hare for the group running at a pace of 6 minutes per kilometer, a comfortable pace that allows us to enjoy the urban scenery.
Today's route took us along the famous Rue de Rivoli, an iconic street that leads to the Louvre, which we passed to our left. Next, we spotted the Tuileries Gardens, but did not walk through it. Instead, we headed towards the Paris Opera and took the Grands Boulevards.
From there, we made our way back to the Top4Running store, completing the last 5 kilometers of today's challenge. The three routes were complete, now we just have to see which one we will run tomorrow.
For today's jog, I opted to try the Adidas Adistar 3 shoes, specially designed for long and comfortable runs. From the first step, you notice the softness of the cushioning, thanks to the Repetitor+ technology in the midsole, which combines a dense EVA foam and a softer one to offer a perfect balance between support and comfort. This innovative design aims to reduce fatigue on long runs, providing a fluid feel with every stride.
The model's stability also stands out, with firm heel support helping to maintain a secure footing at all times. The Engineered Mesh upper fits snugly over the foot without being restrictive, allowing the foot to move naturally.
The Adistar 3 tested around Paris: During the run, the foot stays cool and well ventilated, which is a plus on hot days like today. In addition, the outsole offers solid grip, even on wet surfaces, which adds extra confidence when running through the streets of Paris. There's no doubt about it, Adistar 3 are perfect runners, and the miles go by without you even noticing.
After completing our run, breakfast awaited us at the Top4Running store. As usual, there were croissants, napolitains and juices, but today we had a special surprise. Romain Wyndaele, athlete and professional barista, was there to prepare us a selection of specialty coffees.
From a creamy flat white to an intense espresso, the variety of choices was wide. The cappuccinos were decorated with latte art, making each sip a real pleasure. Romain shared with us some tips on the benefits of coffee for runners. He explained to us that coffee can improve performance if consumed properly.
He also reminded us that the key is to know your body well to avoid surprises on race day. Indeed, the right time to consume coffee varies depending on the person and their habits. Some runners prefer to drink it before going out to train to take advantage of the energy boost, while others reserve it for after, as a way of recovering energy.
Going back in time a bit, yesterday we had the opportunity to visit the Adidas House Paris, an exclusive place where the brand welcomes its best athletes. The space is a mix between a place of entertainment, a museum and a place of rest, with multiple activities to do.
At the Adidas House Paris we were able to enjoy a relaxation capsule, perfect for recovering after a day of intense training. We also explored a terrace with breathtaking views of the monuments of Paris, from where we could appreciate the beauty of the city.
In addition, we had the opportunity to take a closer look at Adidas' collection of historic shoes, from running to other sports models. During the visit, we were immersed in the brand's universe.
Today, we complete the reconnaissance of the last Top4Running x Adidas Paris Challenge course. Tomorrow will be the big day, where we will leave aside the exploratory routes to throw ourselves fully into the final race. The week's challenge will culminate in a competition that will award the winner and winner with full Adidas gear and, most excitingly, a bib and a trip to the Road to Records in Herzogenaurach, the Adidas headquarters in Germany.
If you are in Paris and want to join us at the next event, don't hesitate to come along. We leave you all the information on the official Top4Running website. Tomorrow, the grand finale, see you at the start line!
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