During marathon weekend, Warsaw usually steps up a gear. The streets fill with runners, everyone’s thoughts turn to the start line, and the city begins to operate according to the rules of the race. This year, during the 48th Warsaw Marathon, New Balance offered something different: it created a space that wasn’t subject to the pressure of pace. The Run House, set up in the Kisielewski Hall at the Palace of Culture and Science, became a place where running could be interpreted more broadly than simply as physical exertion and a result. It offered the chance to relax amidst curated collections, design and art.
The brand transformed the interior of the Palace of Culture and Science into an environment focused on regeneration, socialising and mindfulness. It utilised design pieces by Oskar Zięta and works by Michał ‘Żyto’ Żytniak, creating a composition that blended sport with urban culture. Zięta’s metallic forms introduced a sense of lightness and openness to the space, whilst Michał Żytniak’s works added a contemporary character.This arrangement was not merely an aesthetic addition; it was intended to emphasise that running is an experience rooted in the city’s everyday life and in the personal stories of those who practise it.
Run House was open for three days, offering runners and supporters a place where they could slow down, relax and prepare for the race. On Friday and Saturday, the space was filled with mobility and stretching workshops led by coaches and athletes. The Recovery Zone attracted those wishing to look after their bodies before or after exercise. In the testing area, visitors could try out New Balance running shoes, whilst the Photo Booth and banner-making stations helped create an atmosphere of shared enjoyment of the sporting weekend. With energy and a positive attitude.
On Saturday, the official Shake Out Run set off from Run House – a leisurely five-kilometre run through the centre of Warsaw. For some, it was the final preparation before the marathon; for others, an opportunity to meet up with the running community. On Sunday, the action moved to the race route, where the New Balance Cheer Zone was set up at the 41-kilometre mark. This is where supporters gathered to cheer on the runners at the toughest point of the race. After crossing the finish line, the runners returned to the Run House, which once again became a place for rest and recovery.
The whole event was rooted in the ‘Run Your Way’ concept – the belief that running is not a one-size-fits-all activity, but a collection of individual motivations, goals and emotions. We should run in our own way. Everyone does it as they please. The Run House in Warsaw demonstrated that the brand is capable of creating attractive spaces which not only support runners but also interpret running as part of modern life. A space was created in the city centre that allowed people to pause for a moment and offered the opportunity to… A place that served as a reminder that looking after your body is just as important as clocking up the kilometres.
source: New Balance press materials (www.newbalance.pl)
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