Product Review: Salomon XT Wings 
By Carl | August 28, 2008
For the last four months I have been running in a pair of Salomon XT Wings. To be honest with you I have had them for five months but it took me a month to pluck the courage up to wear them! Firstly because they are bright red (also available in black for the more discerning customer), secondly I was afraid of looking like the guy with “all the gear and no idea” and thirdly these things are built for speed and I needed an extra month to get some in my legs!
The Salomon XT Wings certainly have curb appeal and if left by the door you can almost feel them beckoning you like a dog to be taken for a run. The bright red colour, gusseted tongue and asymmetrical Quicklace System make them instantly recognizable as a Salomon shoe.
Out of the box the feel is great; its snug and the Quicklace system allows for accurate tension. A clever little design feature is that under the top of the tongue there is a small flap which you can tuck the end of the lace loop so that there is no flapping.
On Road Performance
On the road the XT Wings perform well for an off road shoe - if that makes sense. They are light weight, have a degree of pronation control and an Agile Chassis Skeleton that ensures smooth heel-to-toe transition. Initially I found the cushioning to be a little rigid however after a couple of runs I found the EVA midsole to soften up and provide greater spring.
Off Road Performance
Off road the XT Wings make a perfect Spring & Summer trail shoe. Salomon’s versatile, Running Contragrip sole tames hard packed trails and provides grip when cornering. The Agile Chassis also reduced side-to-side movement of the foot allowing for quick changes of direction in moments of desperation! One other noticeable factor was the shoes ability to maintain your forward momentum even when you were running on uneven surfaces.
Personally I would like to see how the XT Wings fair during the Winter months. However from the soakings received at the recent Urbanathlon I can say that the drainage is excellent and they remained breathable. However, I’m still yet to be convinced by the Contragrip performance on heavy wet trails.
Versatile, stylish and comfortable
If you were to write down a list of requirement from a trail shoe then the XT Wings would 
tick most of the boxes. Great support, light weight, grippy, bold styling, cushioned and breathable. They are quite expensive; Ransacker price of £72.00 but they are versatile and could be worn as walking shoes or leisure shoes, so value for money is not an issue. Personally I have yet to find a fault with the XT Wings but with the Winter Months (roll on HellRunner Up North) around the corner I’ am going to reserve my final judgment and give them a provisional 9/10.
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Fancy some off-road fun???
By Craig | August 26, 2008
If you thought the Urbanathlon was a breeze then this is the event for you!
Prestwich AC organise a race called the Prestwich Challenge, and it’s a race with a difference. This years takes place on Sunday 
31st August at 12.00 Noon, starting at Sedgeley Park Rugby Club and covers the area around Prestwich Clough, Irwell Valley sculpture trail and Phillips’ Park.
It’s 8 miles, all off road, rural and quite demanding (and a fair bit of mud!) and with a variety of interesting obstacles.The challenges include going through a tunnel, along a stream, rope and tyre challenges and lots more.
There are still some places remaining with a week to go. It only costs £15.00 to enter and all the money raised goes to local charities. For further information please download the race entry form by clicking on this link.
We would really like to have been there but unfortunately can’t make it. So we have sent along some race numbers instead!
If you do the Prestwich Challenge this weekend it would be great if you could let us know how you got on. Everyone seems to be raving about it on the Runners World forum. We will definitely make sure we are there next year!
Tags: obstacle race., off road race, prestwich challengeTopics: Goings On | No Comments »
Deal of the Week: New Balance N-Fuse
By Carl | August 26, 2008
This weeks “Deal of the Week” comes from Millet Sports and is one of the latest shoes from New Balance.
Millet Sports are selling the New Balance N-Fuse for just £39.99 + £6.50 for delivery!!
New Balance N-Fuse
It is very unusual for a specialist running shoe manufacturer to launch a running shoe with a price point as low as this. At first we were skeptical, however after trying the N-Fuse we are really impressed. It a comfortable and durable technical running shoe with plenty of cushioning which makes it ideal for Neutral novice runners. Plus it doesn’t look too bad. New Balance really have come on leaps and bounds in the looks department recently!
Click on this link for further information about the Men’s New Balance N-Fuse from Millet Sports.
Click on this link for further information about the Women’s New Balance N-Fuse from Millet Sports.
Good Luck! We would really like to hear what you think about the N-Fuse, especially if you are a first time runner.
Tags: beginner running shoes, cheap new balance running shoes, new balance N-FuseTopics: Deal of the Week | No Comments »
Octathalon Training - It hurts, lots!
By Carl | August 22, 2008
I knew training for the Octathalon would be hard and so far it has lived up to expectations. This week I have undergone the Cardio Blast 1 twice. As the title suggests this basic program focuses on building up your cardio vascular base by completing the same circuit of exercises three times but with increasing intensity.
Initially it feels relatively easy but when you are faced with the last circuit your legs start to feel really heavy and your head dizzy. Not suprising considering my heart rate was in the low 180’s!
Next week I’m going to have a go at the “Step it Up” program if you want a copy I will post it on this blog next week or you can visit www.Octathalon.com . Why not give the Cardio Blast Program a go and let me know how you get on? If you want to download the training program’s just click here.
Tags: cross training program, octathalonTopics: Goings On | No Comments »
Book Review: Running to Learn
By Carl | August 20, 2008
Running to Learn tells the unique story of Julia, an international marathon runner; her struggle to reach peak performance, her battle with an eating disorder and the challenges of her personal relationships.
The book reads like a marathon; the story of Julia’s life is challenging, exposed, emotional but overall rewarding. Julia clearly has two traits of a marathon runner. An addictive personality and honesty. Addiction lead Julia to become a great marathon runner but it also lead her to develop an eating disorder and depression as she constantly strived for that elusive sub 2hr 30min marathon. Whilst her shocking honesty led her to eventually address her long term eating disorder, numerous troubled relationships and write an enlightening book.
Some of Julia’s thinking may be a little too ideological and spiritual for some people. However you can not question her ability to live and instill the message that your life is in your own hands. Continuously you are reminded that reality is what you create and the dreams that you dream can come true. I suppose this is quite apt during the recent / continued success at the Olympics. I doubt you would find many successful Olympians that question their own ability to influence their own destiny.
Running to Learn is not a book that I would typically read and from the outset I doubted that I could relate with Julia’s spiritual approach to life, and I must confess that I did not find it gripping. However, this developed into the books greatest quality. Being a confessed self doubter and realist, I initially started to read the book with cynicism. However, subconsciously I found myself implementing Julia’s thinking and reflecting on her journey. This in turn made me return to the book and give it more attention than I would have done otherwise. If I take one thing away from the book it is that like life, running is a journey and if you focus entirely on the end goal, often you miss enjoyment of the ride.
For further information about Julia and Running to Learn (RRP £8.99) please visit her blog by clicking on this link.
This October, Julia will be running her first ultra event, a 56 mile cross country race from London to Brighton - ‘from the River Thames at Greenwich to Brighton’. She’s currently in training with a group of friends, Rob, Jim and Stuart, and her blog will chart her thoughts, her training, and her increasing mileage as the event approaches.
Tags: Julia Armstrong, marathon runner, Running to LearnTopics: Reviews | No Comments »
Deal of the Week: Saucony Grid Shadow 11
By Nikki | August 18, 2008
This weeks “Deal of the Week” , comes from Wiggle. Wigglitis is a common phenomenon amongst triathletes and cyclists who are addicted to buying stuff from the UK’s biggest onling cycling retailer. We are sure that Wigglitis will spread amongst runners very soon due 
to their low prices on reputable brands.
This week Wiggle are selling the Saucony Grid Shadow 11 for just £44.99 (+ free postage!). That’s £25.00 off the retail price and the cheapest price in the UK!
The Saucony Grid Shadow 11 - A classic!
The Shadow 11 is a Saucony classic. Offering stable cushioning, but without an obtrusive arch support, the comfort provided by the Shadow has been experienced by so many runners around the world. The Shadow 11 is a highly durable shoe which is great for knocking out miles and miles of on and off road training, and even for the runner who is heavy on their toes, this shoe will get them through it.
What we say: The Shadow 11, engineered for support, is perfect for the bigger runner. Its wide base, breathable upper and smooth ride will make many a training run joy.
Click on this link for further information about the Men’s Saucony Grid Shadow 11 from Wiggle.
Click on this link for further information about the Women’s Saucony Grid Shadow 11 from Wiggle.
Tags: cheap running shoes, saucony grid shadow 11. saucony shadow 11Topics: Deal of the Week | No Comments »
It’s good to see Kelly isn’t short of self belief!!!
By Carl | August 14, 2008
Just found this on the NikeLab.com website. It’s good to see that Kelly Sotherton is not short of confidence (considering the injuries) ahead of the next few days events. I wonder if she would be as confident if Kluft was taking part?! Come on Kelly!!
To view the video just click on this link.
Tags: kelly sotherton, nike viral, sotherton confidenceTopics: Deal of the Week | No Comments »
Fancy a change? Train for an Octathalon!
By Carl | August 12, 2008
Recently I found myself lacking motivation at the gym; same faces, same equipment and the same programs. So, in need of a change, I have decided to integrate some Octathalon training into my program and hopefully enter a competition or two next year.
What is an Octathalon?
An Octathalon is a cross training competition that features 8 exercises each done one after the other. The Octathalon has been running since 2005 and has three different courses, all with the same eight exercises but with different amounts of weights distances and repetitions.
Below is the format for the Cup competition but there are two other formats; Club (designed for people with less strength but more CV) and the Short (designed to introduce people to the sport).
INDIVIDUAL |
MENS |
WOMENS |
| BIKE | 1.00 km | 1.00 km |
| LAT PULL DOWNS | 40 reps @ 45kg | 40 reps @ 30kg |
| BOX STEP UPS | 50 reps 10kg weights each hand | 50 reps 5kg weights each hand |
| SIT UPS (Feet held) | 60 reps | 60 reps |
| ROW | 500m | 500m |
| BENCH PRESS (Free weight) | 40 reps @ 35kg | 40 reps @ 20kg |
| TREADMILL RUN | 400m 10% Incl | 400m 10% Incl |
| SHOULDER PRESS (Free weight) | 40 reps @ 25kg | 40 reps @ 15kg |
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Why train for an Octathalon?
Cross training is a great way to condition different muscle groups develop a new set of skills, and improve your aerobic and anaerobic thresholds.
Rory Macquisten the organizer claims; “For pre-season fitness in your sport, the Octathalon will get you fitter in a shorter period of time than almost any other training you will be able to think of. This is due to the nature of training for all the transitions and high repetition exercises done at speed. You will find yourself returning to your sport much fitter than you used to which will lead to you enjoying it far more”.
How do I train for an Octathalon?
All you need is a quiet gym (mornings are best!) and preferably the following; a heart rate monitor and a training partner - its easier when you are not suffering alone! Then you need a plan, thankfully the organizers of the Octathalon have created 5 taster sessions to give you both an indication of what training to run through one of the courses is like and an indication of the nature of the Octathalon itself. They have also developed an introductory set of sessions as well as the set for those people who have already reached a reasonable level of fitness.
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These 5 taster session names are:
1. Cardio Blast.
2. Step it Up.
3. Changing the Pace
4. Pedal Power.
5. Picking up Speed.
The 5 taster session each focus on a specific element of the Octathalon. Once you have completed the above sessions I would recommend that you try running through one of the courses once a month to measure your improvement.
Download the programs for free
All you need to do is visit the Octathalon website and let them know where you heard about the Octathalon, they will email you 5 PDF training guides. Alternatively I will post a free training guide on this blog once a fortnight.
Over the next few months I will be tackling these training programs and speaking to 
several of the Octathlon athletes including; Vito Graffagnino (three times Tough Guy champion) and Jacqui Macquisten (reigning women’s Octathalon champion).
Of course I will post my progress on the blog and let you know if I manage to obtain any “trade” secrets from Vito or Jacqui.
Competition
This years Octathlon Competition will be held on the 11th of October however you must submit a qualifying time by the 30th of August (perhaps I’m a bit late for this year!). Applications cost £10 and will be deducted from the entry fee (£50.00) if you are successful. Please click here for more information.
Videos
Just visit the Octahlon Video’s page to see the pro’s in action. It’s a bit like watching Paula do the Marathon. They make it look that easy you think; it cant be that difficult…
Join me, please!!!!
Next week I will try the Cardio Blast Program. To download your free copy just click on this link. It would be great if you could join me and let me know what you think of the program and how you coped.
Tags: cross training, gym programs, octathalon, octathlonTopics: Goings On | No Comments »
Deal of the Week: Nike Structure Triax+ 11
By Angus | August 11, 2008
This weeks “Deal of the Week” comes from Sportsshoes and is one of Nike’s flagship running shoes.
Sportsshoes are selling the Nike Air Structure Triax+ 11 for £54.99 + £4.99 for delivery.
Nike Air Structure Triax+ 11
The Nike Air Structure Triax+ 11 provides the
triad of cushioning, stability and lightweight. Cushioning has been improved by adding a soft new five-millimeter layer of rubber that runs on top of the Air midsole. Nike has also taken the semi rigid sockliner found in the Pegasus and inserted it into this edition of the Structure Triax which comfortably cradles the foot. The midsole in the outer part of the heel has been beveled causing the foot to land more to the outside helping to further reduce overpronation.
Click on this link for further information about the Men’s Nike Air Structure Triax+ 11 from Sportsshoes.
Click on this link for further information about the Women’s Nike Air Structure Triax+ 11 from Sportsshoes.
If you have any difficulty getting the Triax+ 11 from Sportsshoes our other retailers can be seen by clicking on this link.
Tags: Cheap Nike Running Shoes, Nike Structure Triax+ 11, Nike TriaxTopics: Deal of the Week | No Comments »
Beijing Olympics opens with an extravagant ceremony
By Carl | August 8, 2008
In preparation for the Olympics we hooked the TV up in the office and sat down to watch the opening ceremony. The result; something which should unite a country and the world of sport has divided our office!
There are those of us who think it was one of the greatest choreographed spectacles ever to be seen; the seamless unison of thousands of people, patriotic pride, faultless technology and inspired engineering. However others believe it to be a manipulated, regimented and ostentatious show of wealth designed to detract the world from China’s numerous failings
One thing that we have agreed on; we cant wait for the games to begin. The next three weeks will certainly be full of excitement and moments that will be burnt into our memories forever.
Fantasy Olympics Competition
Before the Athletics get underway don’t for get to enter your team into our Fantasy Olympic competition. 
Pit your wits against other athletics fans and pick your team with great prizes for the winners - and bragging rights for those who beat their mates!
To enter; visit Momentum Sports by clicking here.
Tags: fantasy olympics competition, olympics, olympics opening ceremonyTopics: Goings On | No Comments »