09/28/2026
Katia's Sub-3 Breakthrough at Berlin
Some races are more than just a race - they're proof. And this weekend, Katia proved it.
She ran a 2:59:47 at the Berlin Marathon. A massive PR, a sub 3 marathon, with a negative split. And she did it despite international travel, warmer weather, and all the usual marathon week chaos. She absolutely nailed it.
Katia came to me already fast- with a great endurance base and a clear goal: run sub 3. But she's also a full-time professional, a mom, and someone who has to constantly balance training with real life. Many times we adjusted workouts, shifted long runs, or restructured weeks to make everything fit. It was always about finding the sweet spot between pushing her and respecting her time.
A few weeks ago she ran a 1:22 half marathon, and that changed everything. That race gave her the confidence to push late in Berlin. It was the proof her brain needed.
What made the difference in training? Longer reps, longer intervals. Those sessions built the engine she needed- and showed her what she's capable of.
She's smart, disciplined, and incredibly hard-working. Watching her balance life, training, and big goals is inspiring. And seeing her finally break sub. 3? Pure Joy.
So proud of her, the best is yet to come.