This weekend saw the Run/Tri/Swim/Bike Expo at Event City, Manchester.
By registering for Manchester Marathon (even though I’ve deferred it to next year), I managed to snaffle myself a ticket for a nosey around.
Though I visited under the ‘Run Expo’, everything is under one roof, unsurprising given the overlap. Whilst there maybe need for specialised elements of equipment, kit or nutrition, a lot is ideal for more than one.
Though primarily interested in the running gear, I spotted some interesting things going on under the other areas. Mark Foster was talking swimming, there were amazing cycling and scooter demos and Zoggs even had a mini pool sitting in the centre with underwater cameras, so onlookers could see effective techniques easily.
It almost made me want to join in. Almost.
I have to admit, my swimming is a little poor and whilst I want to do something about it… I’m not exactly the most confident in a swimsuit, let alone a pool. And I know that I’d need goggles and my poor hair would need a swimming cap. Foxy.
Away from the swimming, I had to stop by Fat Lad at the Back. I’d spotted this from afar (I missed the whole TV thing) and spotted this little number. Cycling is something I really should do more often, especially given Mr GFB cycles daily, but I’ve still yet to find my confidence. One day I’ll revisit it. Then I can wear this little number.
I also saw Elivar – their Endure was an absolute life-saver during the London Marathon last year, it managed to last me three quarters of the way round – until it got too hot, sticky and icky to drink. I obviously bought more and some of their new Hydrate Plus. Reviews to follow on those once I’ve given them a further thorough testing.
I visited Brodies Skincare – and given my dry skin issues, suspect I’ll be buying some of this, particularly ahead of the Great North Run. I can see that Tyneside air giving my skin some hassle.
I also, amazingly, found a protein bar that I actually like. For the uninitiated, they normally have the texture of a solid bar of wallpaper paste and the flavours aren’t any better. ZipVit however have a couple – particularly the yoghurt banana and blueberry, and the chocolate caramel. Review on these babies to follow soon (I need to buy some more).
I also did a sweat test – no, this didn’t involve any running, this was merely an initial questionnaire from H2Pro, who provide hydration solutions that are very light in flavour and tailored to your needs. On a short (circa 10km) run I discovered the level of hydration solution I’m using is perfect, but when I’m working harder (half marathon/marathon distances) I need something heavier. They have a range of tablets you dissolve in water that fit your needs. Fascinating stuff.
Moving away from the Great Run stand (I’m doing the Great Manchester Run and the Great North Run, so that’s enough isn’t it?) I bumped into the chaps from Cardiff Half Marathon who are holding a special one next year in March. I had to have a go at winning free entry as the timing would be perfect for a training run ahead of Manchester next year.
Though I missed a couple of stands, such as Zazzee sportswear, I had a great time wandering around and ogling some gorgeous pieces of kit.
Whoever said running was cheap?