Breaking2 is a 2017 documentary that follows three elite runners as they attempt to break the two-hour marathon barrier. The documentary was produced by National Geographic and Nike, and features Nike-sponsored runners Eliud Kipchoge of Kenya, Lelisa Desisa of Ethiopia, and Zersenay Tadese of Eritrea. The documentary begins with footage of the three runners meeting for the first time at Nike's headquarters in Oregon. The runners are introduced to their support teams, which consist of coaches, nutritionists, and sports scientists who will help them prepare for the attempt to break the two-hour barrier.
The rest of the documentary follows the runners as they undergo intense training regimens and testing to optimize their performance. The runners are outfitted with state-of-the-art equipment, including running shoes with custom-designed carbon fiber plates that are said to improve running efficiency.
The documentary also delves into the science behind running a marathon, exploring the role of nutrition, hydration, and muscle fatigue in performance. Sports scientists work with the runners to analyze their biomechanics and develop strategies to help them maintain the pace required to break the two-hour barrier.
As the race approaches, tension builds among the runners and their support teams. The documentary captures the energy of the day of the race, which takes place on a specially designed course in Monza, Italy. The course features a long straightaway, gentle curves, and minimal elevation changes to optimize the runners' performance.
Throughout the race, the runners are accompanied by pacers, who run alongside them to help them maintain the necessary pace. The pacers are carefully selected based on their fitness and their ability to maintain a consistent pace over the course of the race.
The documentary captures the drama of the race, as the runners push themselves to their limits in pursuit of the two-hour barrier. The end result is a suspenseful and inspiring story of human endurance and innovation, and the lengths to which people will go to achieve their goals.
Breaking2 was met with critical acclaim upon its release, with many praising its cinematography, storytelling, and exploration of the science of running. The documentary was also praised for its positive message of determination and perseverance, and for providing a glimpse into the world of professional running.
Breaking2 is a 2017 documentary with a runtime of 56 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.2.
