Inside Hellen Obiri’s Marathon Success: The Ultimate Starter Pack

Hellen Obiri, a prominent marathon runner, prepares for her races with a well-organized routine. The 35-year-old Kenyan athlete has made a mark in the running world, including her impressive performances in the New York City Marathon. As she anticipates her fourth NYC Marathon on November 2, 2025, Obiri reflects on her journey and shares her essential gear.
Marathon Success: Hellen Obiri’s Journey
Obiri debuted in the New York City Marathon in 2022, finishing sixth amidst enthusiastic crowds. This year’s marathon is particularly significant as it is the largest in the world, traversing all five boroughs of New York City and concluding in Central Park. In 2023, she secured victory in the marathon, followed by a strong second-place finish in 2024, just 14 seconds behind fellow competitor Sheila Chepkirui. As she approaches the upcoming race, Obiri’s goal is clear: she is aiming for another win.
Preparation for Marathon Day
Obiri’s marathon day routine begins early, often with a light breakfast of a banana for morning runs. For races, she opts for a more filling meal, including cereal, toast, scrambled eggs, and tea. Preparation extends beyond meals to the essential gear that supports her performance.
Hellen Obiri’s Marathon Day Starter Pack
- Running Shoes: Obiri recommends the On Running Cloudboom Strike LS. These shoes have a lightweight design, excellent cushioning, and a laceless setup for distraction-free running.
- Running Socks: The Elite Run Sock High is Obiri’s go-to. Designed to keep her feet dry and cool, they feature compression zones and ample cushioning to prevent blisters.
- Open-Ear Headphones: For her marathon sessions, Obiri uses the Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 headphones, allowing her to listen to her favorite gospel music while remaining aware of her surroundings.
- Running Fuel: Maurten Gel 100 is essential for her endurance needs, providing 25 grams of carbohydrates per packet in an easy-to-digest format.
- A Versatile Pack: Obiri carries the On Track Pack, which is designed for practicality and comfort, featuring multiple compartments for organization and hydration.
As marathon enthusiasts prepare to cheer on their favorite runners, Hellen Obiri remains focused on achieving her goals with the help of her ultimate starter pack. Her disciplined routine and carefully selected gear reflect her commitment to excellence in running.



