Marathon Man

SPORTSKIN Sunkit

South African runners are well aware of the dangers that the African sun holds and the importance of protecting our skin against its onslaught. We all need to make sure we slap on sun protection when training! SPORTSKIN has a range of sun protection products that are designed specifically for athletes that train outdoors, with packaging specifically designed to suit athletes on the go. The SPORTSKIN SPF 40 Sun Pro Stick is smaller than a cell phone and ideal for spot application on areas such as your nose, neck and forehead. It is sweat- and water-resistant, and non-oily. Approved by CANSA, it contains anti-ageing and anti-burn ingredients. Other products in the range include the SPORTSKIN SPF 15 Lip Gear Lip Balm and the SPORTSKIN SPF 40 Pro Clear Spray.
Available at Sportsmans Warehouse or order them online at www.sportskin.co.za. R150 for the complete SunKit containing all three products, but can also be bought separately.


RECOUP MUSCLE REPAIR
Recoup tablets provide a balanced combination of essential and non-essential amino acids to assist in muscle recuperation after strenuous exercise, thus enhancing training intensity. During exercise, muscle tissue is broken down and the rate of recuperation is influenced directly by the availability and ratio of amino acids in your diet, because they serve as the building blocks of muscle protein and are essential for complete recovery. The sustained release amino acid profile of Recoup is designed to supplement dietary protein for maximum bio-availability. Recoup is also effective in maintaining muscle size and strength for optimal sports performance. The tablets are yeast-free, salt-free and contain no steroids, nor banned, dangerous or habit-forming substances. Suitable for diabetics when used as part of a balanced eating plan.
Available at Dischem, Medirite Pharmacies and other leading pharmacies.


SLIPSTOP YOGA TOWEL
If you’re finding your yoga sessions a bit slippery, then get your hands on the Slipstop Yoga Towel with silicone nubs. These towels are longer than most yoga mats (53cm x 180cm), and the silicone nubs on the underside of the towel ensure maximum stickiness to the yoga mat and minimal slipping. Once you distribute your weight in a yoga posture, the nubs start gripping the mat, keeping your hands or feet from slipping in mid-stretch. The towel is made from ultra-fine microfibre fabric (80% polyester / 20% polymide) to help absorb sweat – particularly useful for heated yoga! It is machine-washable, dryer-safe and available in purple and blue.
Available at Sportsman’s Warehouse for R299.95. For more info, contact info@terrabrands.co.za


PUMA FAAS TRAINERS
The Puma Faas Collection is a fun, innovative and technologically advanced range of running shoes. The name Faas is taken from the Jamaican word for fast, and the name fits. The shoes features a biomechanical design technology called BioRide™ that provides a naturally responsive ride, helping runners get into their own rhythm for increased speed and performance. PUMA took a look at some of the fastest athletes affiliated with the brand and studied their movement, foot placement and overall running skills. There were three proven and consistent skills that were identified as critical to top performance, and PUMA translated these elements into three categories – Rocker, Flex and Groove – that have become the cornerstones of the BioRide™ technology and the Faas shoes.


To help runners find the best Faas style to suit their needs, PUMA has assigned each style a number, ranging from 100 to 1000. The lower number models, such as the Faas 300, have less cushioning and less structure, providing a lightweight, fast-paced trainer. As the number gets higher, additional cushioning and structure is added to the shoe. The higher number shoes, like the Faas 500, are perfect everyday neutral trainers.
For more info, visit www.puma.com/running

Healthy Eating on a Budget

Well Worth Having

COMPLETE NIGHTFOX TR
PUMA



The new Nightfox trail running shoe provides good all-round traction, protection, cushioning and comfort. Key features include a full-length Rock Shield Plate, to protect your feet from bruising by stones or small rocks, and a water-repellent but still breathable upper, which keeps your feet dry and comfortable. The cushioning of the EVA rubber midsole is complemented by extra inserts of Puma’s ld-CELL rubber compound for extra shock absorption in the heel and forefoot areas of the midsole, as well as under the heel in the footbed (under the sock liner). And it’s all rounded off by some pretty funky colours – guaranteed to make you visible on the trails! Available from Sportsmans Warehouse and other Puma stockists at R1 199.


FRESH FOGGER
SOF SOLE


Running shoes should be felt, not smelled! Their function is to give you the cushioning and support that you need when running, to make your run comfortable and help you avoid injury. But they do unfortunately get dirty, sweaty and smelly, so keep them fresh with a regular application of this great-smelling shoe freshener. The technically-advanced formula of Fresh Fogger destroys odours caused by bacteria, making it the ultimate deodoriser for your running shoes. Available at Sportsmans Warehouse, R55.95 for a large 3oz/85g spray can.


ANTI-CHAFE CREAM
BLUE STEEL SPORTS


If you want to avoid that horrible moment when you get into the shower after a long ride or run and the water hits that sensitive, chafed spot and you nearly go through the roof, then get yourself a tube of Blue Steel Sports Anti-Chafe Cream. It’s a long-lasting, non-sticky, non-greasy lube with a pleasant smell, and won’t irritate sensitive skin or stain your clothing. You can use it on your feet, inner thigh, groin and buttocks, upper body and even your face, to protect from chafe, blisters, cracked heels, saddle sores and windburn. You can also use it after your activity to assist in recovery of irritated skin. Available at Sportsmans Warehouse, R54.95 for a 100ml tube.


 

Running: My Saving Grace

Well Worth Having

MCNAB
ENERGY FOODBAR


This is the ideal snack for anyone on the run! These bars are 100% natural and come in three new delicious flavours: African Cocoa with Limpopo Ginger, Cape Orchard with Baobab Fruit, and Red Apple with Zanzibar Spice. They contain a mixture of different fruits, oats and peanut butter and are perfect for providing athletes and energetic people with an instant on-the-go snack. Some of the fruits have a GI rating that will deliver energy quickly to athletes who are on the move and running out of steam. However, the other fruits, oats and peanut butter in the bar all have a low Gl rating and will therefore continue to steadily supply energy several hours after being consumed. Interestingly, these energy food bars were created at the Energy Works, which is the first eco-friendly office building in Johannesburg! It runs off sustainable solar-powered energy and fresh rainwater. Available countrywide at Dis-Chem, petrol stations, Clicks, Pick n Pay, independent pharmacies and Spar at R8.


INOV-8 MUDCLAW™
TRAIL RUNNING SHOE


Inov-8 is a brand new trail running shoe hitting our shores. It’s the perfect shoe for off-road junkies and has a proven track record in countries such as the UK and America where it has been available for the past eight years. All Inov-8 products have been extensively tested by off-road enthusiasts and elite international athletes to guarantee their performance. One of the most popular shoes in the range is the Mudclaw™ racer. It weighs in at 272g and has a superb level of grip when racing in the toughest conditions. The aggressively studded Mudclaw™ sole is designed specifically to cope with steep mixed terrain when ascending, descending and contouring. It is especially good on wet grass and in deep mud. The off-centre ‘ray wrap™’ lacing provides a more secure hold on the foot while contouring. If you are planning any off-road running soon, this is one of your best bets! Available from specialised outdoor and sport shops as well as agents countrywide, at R1 195. For more info, log onto www.inov-8.com or contact Mike Morehen at mike@rebel-inc.co.za.


HELLY HANSEN
STRIPE CREW


Widely regarded as the original technical base layer and an active wear icon, Stripe Crew tops have been around since 1970 with their distinctive white chevron stripe on the sleeves, and they’ve just gotten better as the years have gone by. These tops, available in men’s and women’s long- or short-sleeved versions, provide lightweight comfort and effective moisture-management thanks to the triple-layered Lifa? Stay Dry Technology™ that moves moisture away from the skin. And these tops just look super-cool, too! Available from The Runner Group, The Sweat Shop, Running Inn, as well as paddling, outdoor and hiking stores, at R325 (long sleeves) and R300 (short sleeves).


THE GREAT RUN
BY BRAAM MALHERBE


This is the compelling story of Braam Malherbe’s epic 4 218km run with running partner David Grier along
the Great Wall of China in 2006. Enduring both blood-boiling heat and mind-numbing cold, mummifying sandstorms, deadly quicksand, incidents with bandits and draconian officials, pig’s-head soup and other Chinese cuisine delights, Braam takes the reader on an incredible journey through the heartland of China as he tells how he and David became the first people in recorded history to run the whole Wall non-stop, and how he had to call on reserves far deeper – physically and emotionally – than even he realised he had. Available from Exclusive Books, Wordsworth Books, CNA, PnA, Bargain Books and Kalahari.net at R175.


 

A Great All-Rounder

Well Worth Having

TRANS SPORT


HEART RATE MONITOR GEL


 


Those of us who use heart rate monitors know that we need to wet the electrodes of the chest strap a little in order to establish better contact and ensure a more accurate reading. In essence, the water acts as a conductor for the electric signals passing between your heart and the strap. Now sometimes we’re about to set out on a run and there is no water nearby, so it makes sense to keep a tube of heart rate monitor gel in your kitbag or in your car. Just a small dab on the electrode and you’re ready to run. Available from Sportsmans Warehouse, R24.95 for a 50ml tube.


 


CALZANETTO


INSTANT SNEAKER CLEANER


We love running, but probably don’t enjoy cleaning our shoes nearly as much when they get smelly or dirty. No problem, because this spray-on shoe cleaner is ideal for runners who want their running shoes to be clean and smell good. Simply spray on this foaming agent to release dirt and mud, use the handy scrubber cap to dislodge any stubborn mud (if necessary), and then wipe the shoes off with a towel. The cleaner leaves a fresh citrus fragrance, thanks to its natural d-limonene ingredient, a powerful citrus cleaner. It can be used on canvas, nylon, smooth leather and vinyl. Available from Sportsmans Warehouse, R64.95 for a 170g spray can.


 


FALKE


Medium Control


Racerback Sports Bra


When we run we want to be comfortable, especially when it comes to crop tops and sports bras. This sports bra from FALKE is ergonomically designed and features Drynamix, a revolutionary moisture management fabric while mesh inlays optimize ventilation. Some of its best features include flat seams for a chafe-free run. The bra also has double-lined front panels for added support. Available in pink, blue, white and black (sizes S-XL). Available from selected Cape Union Mart stores, Sportsmans Warehouse and independent running shops at R125.


 


BODY SCULPTURE BALANCE BOARD


If you’ve strained or torn your ankle ligaments once, chances are you’ll do it again – unless you strengthen them by exercising them regularly. And there are few better ways of doing this than with a balance board. It has a flat top surface and a protruding rounded bottom, so you stand on it and try to balance, forcing your ankle ligaments to work harder to stabilise you. Better yet, get a friend to lightly push you from different sides and angles and try to maintain your balance. Also improves balance, coordination, core stability and posture. This plastic board can handle up to 100kg. Available from Sportsmans Warehouse at R149.95.

You Win Some You Lose Some

Well Worth Having

EMERGENCY BRACELET AND DOGTAGS
If you are alone when running, cycling, hiking or even driving, anything can happen to you. Many times your family members don’t know exactly where you are or how long you will be gone for. Impilo Siza Emergency Information Services has designed a bracelet and dogtags that contain info with your name, allergies, any medical conditions and medical aid status. So when you are unconscious or traumatized, you will immediately be identified so you can be assisted in the correct way by emergency services and the police. This also means you will be taken to the right hospital first time. Registering for this service will cost you R10 per month. For more info visit www.impilosiza.co.za.


BLACK DIAMOND TRAIL COMPACT TREKKING POLE
The tough terrain of trail running and adventure racing is much easier to cover with trekking poles in each hand, as they really help maintain your balance and momentum. And this pole is a real pleasure to use. Folded, it measures 59cm and can extend to 125cm, with the two telescoping sections locked down by the FlickLock clamping system, which is easy to use and quick to adjust, but extremely strong. Another great feature is the well-contoured, comfortable foam rubber handle, which extends down the upper shaft to allow you to quickly move your hands down the pole when faced with really steep terrain – without having to adjust the length or gripping the metal shaft. Available at Cape Storm, R450 per pole.


NATHAN REFLEX REFLECTIVE SNAP BANDS
We often look for products that enhance our performance but forget about our safety, and on our roads in winter, it is often dark when we head out for our training runs. Visibility is essential. These snap bands make the ideal training partner. Simply wrap them around your wrists or your ankles, or the strap of a backpack, or even your bike, and you’ll be instantly visible from several hundred metres in low-light conditions, as soon as headlights or street lamps reflect off the bands. Easy to apply, the metallic bands are also comfortable thanks to a material backing. Available in packs of two from Sportsmans Warehouse, R79.95.


BORN TO RUN PROFILE BOOKS
This epic adventure begins with a simple question: why does my foot hurt? That sends Christopher McDougall in search of a mysterious Mexican tribe of probably the world’s greatest distance runners. The Tarahumara don’t have a written language and use running as a form of social bonding, but what makes them so amazing is that they run up to hundreds of kilometres non-stop in just light sandals and yet remain largely injury-free. This fascinating book features a cast of wacky characters, including a name that will be familiar to South African readers, former Comrades Marathon winner Ann Trason. The Tarahumara call her the Bruja (Witch) because they suspect her of putting a curse – a knee injury – on one of their top runners! This is a fascinating read. Available from leading bookshops at R165 (Front cover may differ from picture). – Reviewed by reader Andy McKissock


 

Well Worth Having














   Bsn
endorush?!
Try this energy beverage the next time you need a boost. ENDORUSH?! ultra-premium energy drink helps to increase physical energy, improves overall sense of wellbeing and intensifies mental focus and alertness. It also provides increased blood flow, oxygen delivery, electrolyte replenishment and muscle hydration. You can choose between two flavours, Tropical Fusion Fix and Blue Raspberry Fix, with zero sugar per serving. Available at Dis-Chem at R44.95 for a four-serving size bottle.
   solace
on the go spf 30
solace
lip ice spf 30
These products are a must for any athlete who spends time outdoors. The compact 50ml bottle of sunscreen is convenient to keep in your sports bag or on hand at any time, and both products are sweat-resistant and contain UVA and UVB protection. Solace is endorsed by dermatologists and CANSA (Cancer Association of South Africa) and is suitable for most skin types (hypo-allergenic). Available from Cycle Lab and The Sweat Shop.
   Asics
gel-piranha sp 3
Racing flat shoes are meant to be light… but at just 138 grams, the new Gel-Piranha SP 3 will make you stop and look twice to ensure you are actually holding a shoe! The midsole is made from super-light Solyte foam rubber, with a Duosole outsole, which provide the cushioning and traction you need for fast, short-distance racing. Recommended for lighter, super-efficient runners who don’t need extra cushioning or support. Available from The Sweat Shop at R1 099, and can be ordered by any ASICS stockist.
 adidas
micoach pacer
miCoach provides real-time, audible training advice during your run, ensuring you stay within your target heart rate zone based on your pre-programmed workout by talking to you via an earpiece to tell you your pace, distance, time, heart rate and calories burnt. The monitor comes with a heart rate monitor chest strap and foot stride sensor, which send info to the monitor that it then feeds back to you. (The stride sensor is placed in the special cavity under the inner sole of your adidas shoe, or tied to the laces). You can also plug your mp3 player into miCoach – it will ‘interrupt’ when it ‘speaks’ to you – and you can sync your miCoach to www.adidas.com/micoach to analyse your stats and get coaching feedback online. Available at adidas performance stores or selected Totalsports, Sportsmans Warehouse and The Sweat Shop stores at R1 999.