Tag

triathlon

Can’t Open Water Swim , WILL Open Water Swim with TRI in the Park

This summer, Glasgow hosts the 2018 European Championships and elite athletes will travel from all over Europe to compete for podium places, personal bests and for cheers from the Glasgow crowds.

But Glasgow 2018 is not just for Europe’s best; it is an opportunity for everyone in and around Glasgow to come together and not only watch the events across the city (and in Gleneagles) but to join in on the fun.

For Glasgow 2018 have partnered with Triathlon Scotland to bring us TRI in the Park, a fun and full day of activities for the whole family and a chance for you and them to experience any or all of the triathlon disciplines in Strathclyde Park on August 12th.

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There will be Triathlons, Aquathlons (swim and run), Duathlons (run, cycle, run) and a Family Relay Triathlon while there will also be Tristar triathlons for children aged 11-14 years old. As part of Triathlon Scotland’s Go Tri series, it promises to open up triathlons to anyone who wishes to try and whether you an experienced triathlon club member or someone contemplating your first triathlon, this is an event for you.

Having regained some confidence and a certain level of fitness, I have signed up for the Open Sprint Triathlon, made up of a 750m swim, 16km cycle and 5km run.

As I write this, I have yet to experience the thrill (or chill) of Open Water Swimming and, if I am honest, I am a little apprehensive. Since my “Can’t Swim, Won’t Swim with Robbie Renwick” blog for the Commonwealth Games, my view on swimming has changed and I have discovered a new found love for the water, in part thanks to my participation in both the Aspire Channel Swim and Swimathon campaigns.

Learning to swim freestyle/front crawl and being able to swim 2.5km has given me the confidence (a fool’s confidence, possibly) to sign up for the Great Scottish 2 Mile Swim in September

But first, I have TRI in the Park and the Wee Beastie Triathlon (in and around Loch Lomond) within two weeks of each other and I need to make the transition (sorry for the pun) to Open Water Swimming and soon.

So, when Triathlon Scotland got in touch and told me about their Beginners Open Water Swimming Sessions for Triathlon at Pinkston Watersports, I signed up for the first session on the evening of Friday 13th (hopefully that is not an ominous portent) and there is another on the afternoon of Sunday 22nd July

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All you need is a swimming costume (wetsuit if you have one), goggles, a swimcap and a towel. As this is a beginner’s session, you only have to be able to swim 50 metres, so get signed up if this hot weather is tempting you to cool off in your local watering hole. You’ll learn how to have fun, be safe and even how to put on a wetsuit (anyone else as worried about this as I am?).

Places are very limited and at only £8.00 per session, they are incredible value, so come and join me both at Pinkston and at TRI in the Park on August 12th

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July 4, 2018 2 comments

Physical Activity Swimming Triathlon

Aspire Channel Swim Review and a wee look back at 2017

written by Stephen Morrison

Believe in the impossible.

Aspire to prove yourself and your doubters wrong and look not to the failures of the past but to the glories of the future to inspire and motivate you.

Not the words of some literary genius or some motivational speaker, just what I tell myself when I reminisce about 2017.

While it has not been a great year, there have been some notable events that stretched what I thought I could accomplish and which gave me hope for the future.

In the past, I would have filled every weekend with races and events, but this year I chose four that would test me and also provide a much needed boost. Or rather, three chose me as an unlikely ambassador.

It all started with the Bishopbriggs Sprint Triathlon. Coming last provided me with the simplest of benchmarks, while finishing it provided me with a huge confidence boost.

This was quickly followed by the Men’s 10K which I was not ready for and it showed in my time and in my bouts of walking. However, I finished it pain free and with a smile as wide as the Clyde.

Although I withdrew from the Big Belter, I did set my sights on the 45 mile Classic Challenge at Pedal for Scotland (look out for my Cycling Scotland magazine article) and it turned out to be a magical day.

It all set me up for my final challenge of the year

The Aspire Channel Swim which you might have read about here. While not confined to my house, I did struggle to leave and I also wanted to do something special, so I vowed to my Aspire Channel Swim Relay Blogging Team that I would swim the 2.4 miles in one go.

If truth be told, I was not sure that I could, but I was determined that I would!

Watching my relay team members, such as Father and Mutha Fitness complete their swims inspired me and although I did put my own attempt off until the very last week, I made a commitment to swim the 2.4 miles at my local Nuffield Gym who kindly agreed to provide me with my own lane.

However, a few days prior to the event, disaster stuck. My beloved Garmin Forerunner 735XT stopped working. If I could not count lengths and record the swim, will it still have happened?

Thankfully Garmin stepped up to save the day, not only promising to replace my 735XT but to send me a swanky Fenix 5 to test.

And test it, I did

I arrived at Nuffield Giffnock and made my way tentatively towards the pool. With goggles on and my Fenix 5 prepped, I entered the pool, in trepidation due to a lack of preparation.

But then, I remembered the wonderful thing about swimming; why I was delighted to be asked to join the Aspire Channel Swim Relay team and why I asked for my fee to be donated back to Aspire.

Swimming is an activity that is easy on the joints; it is great for improving lung capacity and efficiency which can be transferred to other endurance sports and for those with spinal injuries, it is an effective means of therapy.

It is a sport that is for the many.

Swimming is also good for the mind as the rhythmic nature of it is relaxing and soothing. With 160 laps to swim, I was going to see just how relaxing it was.

I’d like to say that I simply jumped in and got on with it, but the first 30 lengths seemed to take forever and I started to worry that three hours would not be enough.

However, as I settled into my own rhythm and let my mind wander, it did not feel long until I was at 60 and then 100 and soon enough (ok, 2 hours and 24 mins later) I had swum 4,000 metres.

I had completed my Aspire Channel Swim Relay

In one go. To say that I was happy was an understatement and I must have looked at the reading on the Garmin Fenix 5 about 4,000 times, which is about half the amount of times that I have debated whether to buy it or not (I am leaning towards yes).

Now, as Clare expressed so well, swimming the 2.4 miles in one go does not make a great deal of difference. Everyone who managed to complete any distance over any amount of visits helped to raise funds and awareness for Aspire , but given the year that I have experienced, this was an important milestone for me.

It proved that despite my size and recent lack of confidence, I can still enjoy sport and I can test myself. And so can you. I believe in you, but how much do you believe in yourself? Can you think of a challenge that will spur you into action and off of the couch?

Well, over the next few months, I am going to highlight some ways in which almost anyone can participate in sport and as I return to work and to my passion of encouraging civil servants (and everyone else, for that matter) to move more, I also vow to get my own life back on track (I have had so many false starts).

So far my lack of consistency and my desire to discover the finest vegan cakes have cost me three pairs of shoes!!

I cannot have my cake and eat it!!

Especially of I am to do the Aspire Channel Swim and a 5K Swimathon next year.

Huge thanks to Aspire Channel Swim for inviting me to join their blogging relay team and to Nuffield Health and Garmin for supporting my efforts. It was an amazing and often humbling experience viewing on social media the awesome and inspirational efforts of every participant. Swimmers came in all shapes and sizes, in all ages and ability, but with one thing in common.

They believed in the impossible and they aspired to achieve greatness. Will you join them and myself next year?

December 15, 2017 0 comment

Health Journey Physical Activity Triathlon Try-Athlete

Ironman 2018 Update: It is not the end, only the beginning

written by Stephen Morrison

It is no secret that as a fitness blogger and Ironman 2018 in training, my current fitness levels and weight often (ok, all of the time) make me feel like a fraud

Circumstances outwith my control have placed limitations on my training and my own insecurities and beliefs have prevented me from taking the necessary steps to keep myself active and to get me to a healthy weight.

I have had my reasons but I have also made excuses.

Fear of not being able has made me afraid to try. I have coasted along at a steady weight but not a healthy weight. Thanks to Lululemon Glasgow, I have a wardrobe of stylish and oh so comfortable xxl and xl clothing whie I have a partner who loves me unconditionally (on the condition that I do more housework).

No more complaining about ugly clothing for obese people

I have also set goals too far in the future and too extreme for me to realistically achieve (especially given a recent development) and I have settled into a comfort zone that did not require me to sweat and I had forgotten how much I enjoyed being active. I had forgotten how to have fun.

Instead, I had become angry. I was angry at my own shortcomings and at the world, in general. I had attacked network marketing brands and I had challenged the lazy and fat shaming attitudes of sections of the media and the fitness industry. I had made an impact, but sadly I had also made myself extremely unhappy.

Then, one morning, the postman (it was a man, I saw him) delivered an envelope that reminded me of my goals.

To encourage, empower and to enable others to be healthier and happier. If I could not inspire myself, how could I inspire others?

The envelope contained my Level 2 Fitness Instructor certificate and it was the stimulus I needed. I got in touch with my mentor, John Hardy of Faster Global and agreed a plan for my Level 3. Faster will get me there, although I might need to take it slowly, as I have other pressing priorities.

From 354lbs to Fitness Instructor

Now, I am not sure if I will ever be a practising personal trainer, but with a Faster education, I do know that I will know how to move better and how to move others to move more. Whatever route I decide to pursue, I know that that they will be behind me.

But first, I have to get behind myself. I have to decide what my priorities are and make sacrifices and hard decisions.

My dream has been to be an Ironman, but recent events have made me question my ability, my resolve and my future. It also made me think about a blog post from an amazing blogger and triathlete that I follow.

Lucy at “PaddlePedalPace” is an experienced triathlete and her reasons why she wouldn’t commit to an Ironman have resonated with me.

While others may be able to juggle their commitments, I need and want to spend more time with my family. I enjoy being both a triathlete and a try athlete and while I will still swim, cycle and and run, I am going to concentrate on having fun and enjoying shorter triathlons (for a while, at least).

My dream of being an Ironman in 2018 has once again been pushed to the back of my priorities and instead, I am simply going to focus on getting fit, losing weight (again) and enjoying life. And I’ll always have this Ironman in my life.

The closest that I will get to an Ironman in 2018

With the weight of Ironman 2018 lifted, I have felt a renewed sense of purpose and renewed hunger. I looked up my Top Tips for Losing Weight post and decided to make a few small changes.

The first was to move more. I made myself get up and get out for short runs, in virtual tandem with my blogging pal Helsbels. These are only 10 minute runs, but they are helping me to build confidence and are a good way to keep me moving.

It was good to get out for a run….even if only for 10 minutes

With Pedal For Scotland looming, I have also been using my bike to transport me to medical appointments. These short runs and commutes alone will not undo the damage done but it was a start and slowly my determination has returned.

Wet We Wet

Downpours of rain have not dampened my spirits and the forgotten urge to move slowly, but surely has replaced my desire to do nothing.

I have also started to lift more. I use kettlebells, a pull up bar and my own body weight and I have started to feel stronger. My eyesight condition (still under investigation) means that I cannot not train too excessively, but I have made training a part of my life again.

It’s time to get swinging

My final act was to look at my diet and to make a change that I felt would be in my health’s best long term interest.

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Yes, we decided to move to a more plant based diet with red and processed meat removed from our shopping list. We have replaced bacon with beans and and parma ham with pulses; we have changed to almond milk and we have moved from crisps and sweets to fruits and and nuts.

It has not been overly difficult and most shops have dairy free alternatives and eating out has not been a hardship. I especially enjoyed this vegan haggis at Gusto and Relish

This was before I was told that there were mushrooms AND kidney beans in this!

Despite the vegan strawberry scone and almond milk matcha tea below, my weight is slowing falling and I am feeling more energetic. The combination of moving more, sleeping more, eating healthy fresh food and, trying to be more positive has had a tremendous impact on how I am feeling.

This plant based diet malarky is a piece of cake

What changes can you make that will help you feel better in this journey we call life? What activities can you try and what are the barriers that you feel are stopping you from being healthier and happier?

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August 29, 2017 5 comments

Cycling Journey Running Swimming Triathlon

The Bishopbriggs Sprint Triathlon Review

written by Stephen Morrison

Just the other week, I made my triumphant return to running on the beautiful and extremely windy Reiss beach, close to John O’Groats. It wasn’t fast, but it was extremely pretty and more importantly, I felt no pain (for the first time in well over a year).

This Man Will Be An Ironman

It was on this same beach that I gained the confidence to complete the Copenhagen Marathon and with my weight starting to drop again (slowly) and my cycling becoming an everyday activity, my Ironman dreams should still be alive.

However, last week I was on BBC Radio Scotland (listen here until the end of May) talking about why I blog.

My goal has always been to inspire and encourage others and it might be time to accept that I may need longer to prepare for my Ironman than I anticipated. Especially as I hope to launch at least one new cycling inspired initiative to help encourage people to move more and because I am currently not finding the time to train sufficiently (note to self: sort this out!) while trying to accommodate all my roles, campaigning and responsibilities. At some point, I have to decide what is more important to me. Helping others or helping myself (I want to do both).

But back to the present and back to my Ironman training.

On Sunday, it received a welcome boost as I completed the Bishopbriggs Sprint Triathlon hosted by Glasgow Triathlon Club and located at The Leisuredrome.

Bishopbriggs Sprint Triathlon

For those who, like me, are triathlon newbies or wannabes, the Sprint Triathlon is made up of :

750 Metre Swim
20 Kilometre Cycle
5 Kilometre Run

Individually, I am competent at these distances in each discipline, so going into it I was hopeful that I would get through it unscathed even with my lack of real training (famous last words).

However, like most things preparation is key. Bishopbriggs is 8 miles from my home and on the morning of the event, the sun was out and I was feeling good (possibly too good).

I had considered cycling half way to a train station, but the timing was off and being my usual late self, I didn’t have any time to spare, so I just cycled on. [Lesson 1: investigate and plan on how to get to events with a bike]

All the way I was envisaging being late to registration; of encountering lengthy queues and of experiencing a confusing (to me at least) transition area (where you park and collect your bike).

The Bishopbriggs Sprint Triathlon

On arrival, however, all my fears evaporated. I was welcomed at reception and quickly issued with my timing band, race number and instructions (instructions that even I could almost follow). At the transition area, they must have sensed that I was a newbie and both marshals and another competitor came to my assistance. Neither cared that I was clueless nor wearing the normal triathlete uniform of a tri-suit. Instead, they only seemed to care about me being able to enjoy the race.

And that was to be the theme of the whole event.

We had a quick but instructional (and funny) briefing and then with my estimated swim time being slow and subsequently being in the first wave of triathletes, we were ushered to the pool (no outdoor swim in this event). Here, we were given more instructions. Everything had been thought of, and as I entered my lane, I could focus on one thing

Not killing myself in the pool.

The Swim

Swimming is my weakest discipline and with my Total Immersion swimming still not perfect, I resorted to the breast stroke, which is perfectly acceptable even if my form is far from perfect. I had estimated 30 mins for my swim and I decided on an almost effortless pace as I had no idea how I would cope later on.

At 28 laps, I was accosted with a swimming board. Ok, that isn’t quite right. I had much earlier lost track of my laps, but thankfully, our lane marshall had it in control and a gentle wee tap to the head was to remind/reassure me that I had only two laps left (a nice wee touch indeed).

As I reduced this to one lap and turned for my final 25 metres, I heard the voices. Not in my head, thankfully, but all around me. The awaiting swimmers, my friend Mark and all the marshals were willing me on. As I touched that final pool edge, there was a huge cheer and as I slid out of the pool like a walrus, I had a huge smile on my face.

It was then out to the transition area to collect my bike and in all honesty, I wasted so much time untying shoelaces, attaching race numbers and generally messing around that I lost several precious minutes. [Lesson 2: All of these could and should have been done in setup]

The Cycle

Finally out of the transition area, I set my sights on the 4 x 5km loops on a closed road. Closed to all but two refuse lorries that is, which had somehow managed to break through the blockade of marshals. As soon as you leave the vicinity of the Leisuredrome, you are faced with a monster of a climb. No warning and no warm up. I went through my gears and by the top, my lungs were busting. The rest of the way out was relatively flat, well signposted and with a nice surface, so I paced it well ( I took it easy). At the turning point, there were two friendly and helpful marshals warning us to slow down for the turnaround but also offering encouragement.

The way back was slightly tougher, but we did have THAT hill to go down and the wee kid (or big kid) in me loved the exhilaration of speeding down it, only to be instructed to slow down again as we approached another turning point.

And here , disaster struck. As I slowed down, I placed a foot on the ground and I felt the pain of cramps shoot their way through my left calf and right up into my hip. I pedalled out of the area and managed about 100 metres and had to stop.

I performed a few stretches and tried to get back on and the tightness returned. With it ‘only’ being a 20km cycle, I had no water [Lesson 3: Always bring water and even energy gels] and I could have kicked myself. If I could have moved my leg, that is. At this point, I thought that my race was over and part of me just wanted to curl up and hide. A member of the public then approached me to see if I was ok and suggested that I walk up the hill with my bike and that’s what I did.

As other riders passed me, most asked if I was ok and by the time I reached the top, the pain was easing off. So, I jumped back on and managed to complete the ride only a few minutes outside of my pre race estimate of one hour and that was with me pushing my bike up THAT hill. [Lesson 4: Do more hills. Whether it’s cycling or running, I need to do more hills]

The Run

Again the dismount and transition area was clearly marked and with only the race bib to change from back to front and a change of hat (it was extremely sunny) I was quickly out and onto the last leg.

Any excuse (it was very sunny) to wear my Pearl Izumi Champion cap

And this was quite apt as I was on my last legs. I couldn’t run and managed only short bursts of jogging interspersed with longer bouts of walking. [Lesson 5: Include more “Brick” training sessions where I go straight into a walk or run after a bike ride] The run route is along the canal and it at least offered a beautiful backdrop. It is shared with the public, so there were cyclists, runners and dog walkers, but at no point did this feel like an issue and at the turning point we were met by by another marshal, who was my friend Ray from my Great Run Local Glasgow days. I wasted a minute or so catching up and stealing his water (thanks Ray) but it was a minute worth wasting.With his encouragement and his water, I set off and managed a few bursts of running, but I was sore and tired and it was hot. If I have one complaint, it is that there should have been at least one water station, but I should possibly revert back to Lesson 3.

The route had us then run under a bridge and along the canal in the opposite direction before crossing another bridge (again manned by friendly marshals who even took Ray’s empty bottle from me) and entering the final mile on a more trail like surface. I walked/jogged most of it until I got to the final 500 metres. I picked up the pace (relatively speaking) and sprinted (again, relatively speaking) towards the inflatable finish line where I pumped my hands in the air, having completed my first “real” triathlon. I was given some water and encouraged to have a wee sit down. I didn’t have to be told twice.

I lay back in the grass, spread my arms and stared skywards.

I was a triathlete.

The Celebration

I was a slow, knackered and sore triathlete, but a triathlete nonetheless. I lay like this for a few minutes and then the urge to tell all and sundry about my exploits took over and I headed towards my bike, gear and mobile phone. I picked up some much needed refreshments in the Leisuredrome cafe and set about updating all my social media accounts with my accomplishment. As I spoke to my girlfriend on the phone, I felt tears welling up. I was both emotionally and physically drained, but I was also beaming with pride.

Two thumbs up for the brilliant Bishopbriggs Sprint Triathlon

Once rested, I gathered my bike and gear and collected my timing sheet from the manually operated system, bade farewell to my hosts and set off on my 8 mile cycle home (yes, I did sleep well last night).

The Verdict

The Bishopbriggs Triathlon was superbly organised by Glasgow Triathlon Club and it is a perfect introduction to Triathlons with both Junior and Novice events also available. With an indoor pool, closed roads and a beautiful run route it was both fun and safe. The marshals were all friendly and knowledgeable while the locals came out to cheer us on. It’s an annual event with 250 Sprint places up for grabs and they do sell out quickly. At £46 it isn’t cheap, but you can get a £5 discount if you are Triathlon Scotland member (I joined after signing up) and it compares favourably with the big name events who charge upwards from £70 for Sprint Triathlons. You also have access to showers, restrooms and cake!

With the cost of entry, the cost of bikes (all triathletes/cyclists adopt the N+1 formula to owning bikes, where the number of bikes you need is N, the number you have + 1) and the amount of kit needed, triathlons are for the serious athlete. I am partly assuming this as they seem to have no time for frivolities. For there was no goodie bag and not even a medal for finishing (although you do get a far more practical Glasgow Triathlon Club towel). Obviously finishing is reward enough.

As someone who collects running medals with the mentality of a magpie, this was disappointing, so I decided to digitally create my own for posterity.

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If a triathlon is something that you are considering, then I would have no hesitation in recommending the Bishopbriggs Sprint Triathlon. It’s friendly, fun and now unforgettable.

I certainly hope to return next year to beat my finishing time of 2 hours : 33 minutes : 27 seconds and hopefully improve upon my position of last place.

Yes, I was the last finisher and it hasn’t detracted from how I feel about the event or my performance. I had an amazing time and at no point did I feel that my shape or pace were being judged by anyone.

Thank you Glasgow Triathlon Club for a wonderful Bishopbriggs Sprint Triathlon

This week I am speaking at Elevate Arena about being fat and fit and this illustrates why being active is so important to me. Despite being obese, staying active allows me to enjoy (relatively speaking again) these events and it enables me to feel better about myself. I do want to lose more weight, but I will not let my excess pounds slow me down (too much) or stop me from challenging myself or enjoying life.

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May 8, 2017 2 comments

Swimming Triathlon

Ironman Update : Total Immersion with Vigour Events

written by Stephen Morrison

I have regained 60lbs (having lost 170lbs); I have arthritic knees; I fall off my bike more regularly than Evel Knievel (look him up, millennials) and I cannot swim.

So my decision to sign up for an Ironman event in 2018 may seem a little reckless and a tad foolish. And it probably is. Ok, it definitely is.

However, I am a man of dreams and according to followers of the Law of Attraction, I just have to visualise myself crossing that Mallorca Ironman 2018 finishing line and it will happen.

Can’t Swim, Need to Swim

Of course, I may also want to do something about that whole unable to swim thing.

I say unable, but that isn’t strictly true. At the tender age of eight, my father instructed me. The instruction being not to drown as he pushed me into the water at Pollokshaws swimming pool. I didn’t, but as you might see from the video below, my technique since then hasn’t changed much. I basically flap my arms and try to stay afloat.

For years, I have vowed to learn how to swim and for years my fear of feeling embarrassed by my weight has stopped me. Even when I lost weight, I didn’t feel completely comfortable and any time I have tried to swim, my complete lack of talent has been clear for all to see. Even the brilliant Olympian Robbie Renwick failed to turn me into a swimmer when I trained with him for my Strathmore Water DoMore Blog.

So, if I was going to conquer my fears and feel confident about a 2.4 mile swim in the sea (what am I thinking?) I decided that I would need some expert coaching. Now, I don’t know any expert swimming coaches but I do know Robert Hamilton (sorry Robert, I couldn’t resist), of Vigour Events, and I also know that Robert teaches Total Immersion, the swimming technique that is seemingly quick to master and which makes swimming almost effortless and less exhausting.

Sign me up!

I had watched videos of Robert’s class in Hamilton and as the weeks passed, my doubts started to drain away. Robert and I engaged in a game of Facebook Messenger tennis. He would serve me an invite to a class and I would volley back an excuse not to go.

I didn’t have the time, it was too far way’ I had child care issues and I wasn’t competent enough to try Total Immersion. I used all of them and more. Eventually however, he broke down my barriers and for the past few weeks, I have been receiving and even enjoying his expert tutelage at Shawlands Secondary School.

With the changing room and pool almost to ourselves, my inhibitions didn’t surface as I approached the pool and climbed in for my first lesson.

The first thing Robert asked was to see how I normally swim and he must be a great poker player as at no point did his eyes or face reveal what he thought about my er, swimming “style”.

He simply advised that over the course of the next few weeks that he would instill upon me the basics of Total Immersion swimming and that the secret to success isn’t about the power or a high turnover stroke rate but in the positioning and alignment of my head, leading arm and body as I glide through the water.

At his request, I allowed him control of my body and relaxed as he coaxed my head into a neutral position under the water. It felt so relaxing and so right that my usual desire (and urgency) to break the surface and seek air was replaced by a calmness. Robert had managed, with a wee tweak of my head, to release the tension that courses through my body whenever I attempt to swim.

Floaty McFloatFace

Next he worked on my leading arm position. Again, I allowed him free reign and control of my limbs. He gently maneuvered them under the water until he found a resting point at which my arms automatically returned to when relaxed. Everything felt natural. I knew that I was in safe hands.

Over the course of two weeks and two hours, Robert continued to describe, display and direct me in the many small but vital components of the Total Immersion stroke and the result of our efforts is below.

I am far from finished and over the next few months my lessons and my practice sessions should help me progress even further. However, I have a wee confession. As I watch this clip over and over again, I am beaming with pride.

In just two hours, I had learned the basics of Total Immersion and the prospect of swimming 2.4 miles is a little less daunting.

Just a little.

If Total Immersion swimming sounds like something that you would like to try, then Robert has Swim Sessions on Monday nights at Hamilton College and in January and March he will again be at Hamilton College for his full day Total Immersion Workshops.

And if you want to support my efforts, please consider making a small donation to my Ironman Cancer Research page.

November 25, 2016 4 comments

Guest Blogs Running

How to Breathe When Running – Steven Bonthrone

written by Stephen Morrison

At the end of this month I will be attending an “It’s All About the Breath” seminar with my Triathlon “coach” Mark Russell. Breathing is something that I take for granted (don’t we all?), but deep down (in my lungs perhaps) I know that I can do it better.

So when running coach and Faster Master Trainer, Steve Bonthrone suggested a post on How to Breathe When Running, I didn’t waste a breath and immediately said yes.

IMG 0002 2 3

Steve Bonthrone is a Personal Trainer and Running Coach in Perth, Scotland. Steve first got into fitness in the late 90’s after a back problem prompted him to get fit and he did this by training for and running the London Marathon. Completing the marathon changed his life and inspired him to quit his job as a pizza chef and trained to become a Personal Trainer so that he could inspire others to go after their dreams just as he had done. He still runs marathons to this day and also coaches runners in his 0-5k and Run Faster groups. His motto is “Anything is possible if you can dream it, believe in it and willing to work hard to achieve it”.

A question that is often asked is “how should I breathe when I run?” Sounds crazy eh? In and out has been the tried and tested method used by humans for centuries so if it isn’t broken then why fix it? Joking aside, breathing is a big issue for many people when trying to run so if you’re reading this and find breathing difficult when you run, keep reading and I’ll hopefully help you solve the problem.

How do you breathe when you are running?

If breathing is an issue for you when you run then there’s a very good chance that you’re running too fast or to put it another way, the intensity is likely to be too high for you. If you’re trying to breathe in through the nose and out through the mouth when you run and the intensity of your run is high then breathing that way is going to be a bit of a challenge that will likely result in you having to stop. This can be very demotivating, especially if you’ve been inspired to run by watching friends run or hear of how others are buzzing after a run yet you feel like you’re struggling and a natural reaction could be to quit as running doesn’t seem to be for you.

What if there was a better way to do it? What if there was an easy way for you to be able to run and begin to love it just as you’ve seen lots of others do it?

There is…..slow down! You may be thinking that you run slow enough as it is and if you were to run any slower, you’d almost be walking. If that’s what it takes then that’s ok but I want you to know that you won’t always be there and you’ll progress much quicker.

I should say at this point that the majority of the population make the same mistake when they start running so you’re not alone. There are many reasons for this. First, much of what we read in articles and from other runners is about pace and distance but seldom about how the pace should feel. Secondly, most of us are used to going to fitness classes that are high intensity so the natural reaction when trying running as a form of exercise can be to replicate that intensity we’re used to however, that doesn’t always work very well.

It’s natural to think that when we go running that we should go from A to B in the quickest time but what if that strategy is actually holding us back rather than taking us forwards? Like many other things, when starting out, we should be looking to master the basics before trying to do what everyone else seems to be doing.

What should you be doing then?

Let’s be selfish here and let’s focus on you and how your pace feels when you run. The first step would be to feel comfortable when you run and your breathing should be relaxed enough to be able to hold down a conversation or if you’re running alone, be able to sing a line of a song between breaths. It’s up to you if you want to sing that line out loud or just in your head! The aim should be to build the distance and be able to run a distance always feeling you can keep on going. The feeling of being able to keep going at any time will also give you a lot more confidence in your run where maybe there was a feeling of a struggle before.

It’s important to remember that slowing down doesn’t mean that you are taking a backwards step. If anything, you are taking a sideways step in order to take a greater leap forwards. Slowing down a little bit means that the demands on your lungs won’t be as high and you’ll be able to run for longer before you feel tired. Would it help to know that Triathletes Alastair and Jonny Brownlee spend about 90% of their training at conversation pace? Even if said conversation would put many of us to sleep:

“We keep our motivation up by chatting all the time,” says Alistair. “Even when we’re running or cycling. We talk about football, ideas, what’s going on in the world. I’m very conservative, really. I believe in lower taxes and fewer rules. Sometimes we talk about that.”

What to do now?

On your next run, try paying more attention to feeling comfortable when you run, feel like it’s easy, that you can run for an indefinite period and see how that feels for you. It might take a bit of patience to get used to it and if you do it consistently, you will progress quickly and it won’t be long before you’re running further at a quicker pace than what you were doing previously where you felt it hard work.

Happy Running and Run Happy!

October 21, 2016 0 comment

Triathlon

Ironman 2018. Identify Your Dreams and Work Backwards

written by Stephen Morrison

“Identify your dreams and work backwards, using milestones to track and celebrate your progress. Progress doesn’t have to be becoming the best, but simply by becoming better. Better today, than you were yesterday and better tomorrow, than you are today.”

This is an excerpt from my Faculty of Sport and Exercise Medicine Lay View and it will guide me on my journey from Fatman to Ironman

These words were original spoken by Frank Dick OBE. As the President of the European Athletics Coaches Association and one the world’s top sport coaches, he knows a thing or two about training great athletes.

I am not nor never will be a great athlete, but my dream, as revealed in Man V Fat, is to be an Ironman, even if it does take me the full 16hrs and 10 minutes allowed (although I do hope to complete it a little faster) to complete it.

With the Kona Ironman 2016 World Championships happening as I type, it seems as good a time as any to lay down my plan for Ironman 2018.

Before anything else, I have to decide on an event. Ironman is a truly global event, but as I am fundraising for Cancer Research, I wanted to minimise costs, so I first looked for events in the UK.

Unfortunately, the UK options are Bolton and Wales and while I have nothing against either location, I am from Glasgow and the prospect of competing in the rain isn’t appealing. I may come across as a fair weather athlete, but my fellow Glaswegians (especially Travis) and anyone in Manchester and Cardiff will understand my desire to avoid the rain. So somewhere with some sun and warm water would be nice.

I am not expecting an invitation to Kona, anytime soon, and while a return to Noosa, Queensland in October 2018 would be wonderful, I have to look closer to home and Europe. In addition to warm water. I would like somewhere nice to celebrate and recover.

Everything points to the wonderful island of Mallorca in September 2018 as being my final destination.

The 26.2 mile run might even be pleasant…..ok, maybe not.

The run route is relatively flat (and lined with palm trees!!); the swim, in the Mediterranean is both seawater (i.e floaty) and relatively calm (and warm), while the cycle contains some amazing switchback roads and a wonderful backdrop.

Mallorca is a popular base for triathlon training and I might need to arrange a wee reconnaissance visit to the island and sample some cycling on these awesome roads.

What goes up, has to come down

With Ironman Mallorca normally held in late September, I have approximately two years to prepare. No, that doesn’t mean twenty months to procrastinate about my preparations and then four months of panicking about the lack of them, it means twenty-four months of discipline, determination and dedication.

The three “D’s” that help make so many East African runners so successful.

It isn’t their DNA, their diet or the altitude, it is their attitude that makes them winners and I have to adopt it.

The countdown to Mallorca starts now and I cannot lose focus. The past two weeks have seen my training stutter as I have been sitting an exam and caring for my mum. As I type this, I recognise the need to decide upon a plan and stick to it.

So having identified my dream, it is time to work backwards. I reckon that my milestones should be at least one Olympic Triathlon, a Sprint and possibly some Duathlons, Open Swimming and Cycling events

However, If I am honest, I don’t actually have any idea what it takes to prepare for a 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile cycle and 26.2 mile run, especially as I am not the greatest swimmer or the most confident of cyclists. At the moment, I am not even a competent runner.

I’ve done some Internet searching and the general consensus is that two years should be enough time for me to prepare. However, I will seek support from the experts at Triathlon Scotland and from Ironmen (and women) such as Mark Russell and Team GB Athlete Anna Symms. Both have generously offered to guide me and help prepare a proper schedule. One that will prepare me for the greatest challenge of my life, but one which will also recognise that I have others roles and responsibilities that present their own challenges.

There will be no intense or special training for me, just a consistent approach to being better tomorrow, than I am today.

And regardless of my training and event schedule, there are some essential milestones that I need and want to achieve:

I want to lose at least five stones of fat. I am currently sitting at 250lbs and having been 180lbs in 2012, it is a good weight for me and hopefully I won’t look too ridiculous in a tri-suit.
I also want to build more muscle. Ironman is an endurance sport and I need to be both physically and mentally strong.
I need to learn to swim and swim well. Currently, the 2.4 mile swim is the most daunting aspect of the Ironman for me and it will possibly make me or break me.
I need to master the art of the transition and learn the rules of triathlon. I won’t be trying to beat the Brownlee Brothers, but I do not want to attract any unneeded time penalties.
I need to remember to book a place. Ironmen events are becoming even more and more popular and they sell out almost as quickly as they open.
I need to raise as much as possible for Cancer Research and everyone can contribute here at Stephen’s Ironman 2018 Challenge for Cancer Research.
Finally, I also want to raise more awareness of the links between obesity and cancer. Too many of us believe that we are fit and fat and fail to understand the real danger that carrying extra weight can bring. Hopefully my efforts will inspire more to follow their dreams.

So, Mallorca Ironman 2018 is the dream and there will be many milestones to achieve and many barriers to overcome. It will not be easy and it will not be something that I will take lightly. There is much to do and I hope that you will continue to follow my progress here and at Man V Fat.

And remember, anything is possible.

howmanymiles

October 9, 2016 5 comments

DoMore with Strathmore Triathlon Try-Athlete

Scotland’s Paralympic Hopes in Rio 2016

written by Stephen Morrison

Stephen will never be an athlete. He won’t be able to be as active as others and he’s likely to develop early onset arthritis

I am possibly paraphrasing my paediatric consultant a little, but these were the words that were implanted in my head as a child with Perthes Disease.

I spent some months in a wheelchair, several years in crutches and many more years using my shorter leg and weak hip to explain my lack of athletic ability and my lack of self belief. It also became an excuse to lead a sedentary life.

Now, as a try-athlete, I still don’t don’t possess any sporting prowess and with chronic knee pain, the consultant possibly wasn’t completely wrong (after 9 months, I still haven’t had my knee properly checked).

However, if I could go back in time to my younger self, my one word of advice would be to ignore that consultant’s prophecy.

Sport is for everyone and we can all be athletes

That’s why I’ll be cheering on every Paralympic athlete in Rio for the 2016 Paralympic Games, but especially the British and Scottish contingent. Not in order to use them in some lame fitspiration meme that condescendly asks if someone with no legs can run, why can’t you, but because they can genuinely help inspire the disabled to take up sports and because they are all genuinely great athletes.

Scotland’s Paralympic Hopes

Take Libby Clegg, my favourite Paralympian (I spent a wonderful day training with her for Libby’s Guide to Running) and one of Team GB’s major hopes for a medal. Her World Record time of 23.03 seconds is only 1.25 secs slower than Elaine Thompson’s Gold winning performance in the Olympic 200 metres final.

After training with me, Libby went on to set a World Record. Just saying,

Her eyesight has deteriorated further since I met her and she will have to run with a blindfold in Rio, but I am hopeful that her event will be one of those shown by Channel 4 and I will be cheering her on in her attempts to win gold.

I can’t mention Libby without showing some support for her little brother, Stephen who makes his Paralympic debut as a swimmer. He is joined by fellow Scots Andrew Mullen, Scott Quin and Abby Kane in a British squad that contains swimmings sensations Ellie Simmonds and Ollie Hynd who will be flying (or floating) the flag of Team GB.

http://www.elliesimmonds.com

But back to my selection of Scotland’s Paralympic Hopes and next we have an athlete who shares my birthday (albeit 23 years younger) and who makes me wish I could have moved so fast when I was in a wheelchair. She is one of our greatest hopes for a medal and it is of course Sammi Kinghorn.

Sam Kinghorn is on track for Gold

Sammi is an exceptional young woman and someone who is another try-athlete. After breaking her back, she travelled down to the Spinal Unit Games in Stoke Mandeville, where she tried a variety of sports before deciding on athletics. She has only been racing for about 4 years but her approach to sport and to life is truly inspirational.

But don’t take my words for it. Sammi is an Ambassador for Strathmore Water’s DoMore Campaign and for Harper MacLeod where you can read her wonderful blog.

Next up, we enter the world of Boccia. What’s that I hear you ask.

Boccia is a form of bowls that has been developed especially for athletes with severe impairments and it is one of the most inclusive and possibly most exciting events in this year’s Paralympics, if this video is anything to go by.

World Champion Stephen McGuire leads a Scottish contingent of eight who will represent Scotland and Team GB in Rio and like Libby and Sammi, he presents a genuine Paralympic hope and is another inspirational and hard working athlete. He is also an Ambassador for Muscular Dystrophy UK and like Lizzy, he belongs to a family of Paralympians with brother Peter, a London 2012 medalist. He is also a try-athlete who dreamt of being a Paralympian and set out to find a sport that suited him, before being introduced to Boccia.

Stephen McGuire hopes to boss at Boccia

Unfortunately, Boccia is unlikely to be shown on Channel 4’s Paralympic coverage, but I wish Stephen and the team success and maybe I can find a way to try the sport for myself. It looks extremely challenging tactically and I love that it provides those with the most severe impairments an opportunity to compete and to play sports.

In Scotland, Scottish Disability Sport are responsible for the sport and you can also find out more at BocciaGB

As a Try-Athlete and injured runner who is now determined to become a triathlete, I am ending this post with an athlete who continues to amaze. Faced with her own running injury , Alison Patrick started competing in triathlons in 2014 and promptly won the World title. In addition to being a Paralympic hope, she gives hope to me that I can successfully combine my love of running with sports that don’t place as much load on my joints.

From runner to triathlete to hopefully Paralympian champ

Para-Triathlon covers many classes, including those with missing limbs, but Alison competes against those who are visually impaired If you ever thought that navigating a triathlon course and making the transitions from swimming to cycling to running were difficult, imaging doing so while tethered to a guide. It must be one of the ultimate examples of teamwork in sport

Rio 2016 sees Para-Triathlon make its Paralympic debut and for displays of mental and physical strength and endurance, I think that this will be one event to watch (or record it, if it is on in the wee small hours).

It is my hope that the Cleggs, Kinghorn, McGuire and Patrick receive the same support and admiration as the Murrays, Farah and Brownlees. Not because I believe they face harder challenges or have overcome greater obstacles, but that #becauseofsport these athletes have found a way to push themselves to new heights. Every one of them speaks about a determination to be a Paralympian and their dedication and discipline (Sammi trains twice a day and slaps herself in the head -hopefully not literally-if she thinks about missing a session) are a shining example to budding athletes, both disabled and non-disabled.

The Rio 2106 Paralympic Games start on September 7th and run until September 18th with 50 events and around 4350 athletes from over 160 countries (and two representing the Refugee Olympic Team) competing. Events will be live on Channel 4 and you can show your support on Twitter with the hashtag #Supercharge for both the UK’s and Scotland’s Paralympic hopes.

The lack of funding has been well publicised, so if you are feeling inspired, why not help to support our Paralympians with a donation to Supercharge ?

August 28, 2016 2 comments

Cycling Running Swimming Triathlon

My First Triathlon with Fusion Triathlon Club

written by Stephen Morrison

It took a few moments for the laughing to calm down. The cause of the merriment? My answer to the question of what my aim was, when I announced I was going to lose weight. That I was going to compete in an Ironman competition and become a triathlete. I was at that point 354 pounds and had tried losing weight before, so as much as it hurt, I understood their laughter.

However, I was deadly serious.

Since I’ve started on this path and my previous path to fitness, I’ve made goal setting one of my main tools. I’ve mentioned before that I crave challenges and if something both excites and terrifies me, then there’s a good chance I’m going to sign up for it. Be it Tough Mudder, Spartan Beast or even the Copenhagen Marathon (did I ever mention that I ran a marathon….once?).

So, what is more exciting and terrifying, especially for a morbidly obese desk jockey than the thought of becoming a triathlete…an Ironman, no less. And the crazy thing is, even now that I have regained some weight, I believe that it isn’t a dream, a fancy or an outlandish pursuit. I will be an Ironman and I’m ALREADY a triathlete (and try-athlete)…..of sorts.

For a few years ago, I came across something that got me excited and partly terrified me. The Fusion Mini Triathlon at my local sports centre. How could I pass it up? Quite easily could have been the answer, as I didn’t have a bike and er, couldn’t really swim. Not triathlon stylee, at any rate. But was I going to let a couple of minor issues prevent me from realising a dream? Hell no. I would complete my first triathlon.

I learned that all swimming styles were permitted and a borrowed a bike, albeit a 12 year old, purple MTB that, unlike a fine Scottish whisky, hadn’t aged well.

So on race day I entered the arena and made my way, first to registration and then to rack my bike. I was surrounded by gleaming, shiny, finely tuned and sleek machines while the bikes weren’t too shabby either. At first, I felt a little out of place. Just like I used to, when I was obese. But everyone at Fusion was really friendly and made me feel at ease. So much so, that I felt comfortable removing my t-shirt for the swim (no matter, how much I progress, I’m still a little ashamed of my gut).

And I dived right in and was soon coursing through the swimming leg like a….well, like a not so fat non-swimmer. But I can swim breast-stroke all day (thankfully I didn’t have to) and was soon overtaking a few

and before I knew it, it was time for transition one and time for my first competitive cycle. I say competitive, but the only real competition was which out of the bike and I would break down first.

For, as I had said, the bike wasn’t new and it weighed about the same as a small family car. Plus, it had another problem. One working gear. No, it wasn’t one of these fancy training bikes, it’s gears simply didn’t work and no matter how hard I pumped my wee legs, Fred Flintstone style, everyone and I mean everyone overtook me. But, I’m not a quitter (well, not now at least) and I ploughed on (actually, I think a plough also passed me).

Eventually, it was time for my second transition. From bike to run and I was prepared and ready.

For, I had spent at least 30 mins watching youtube videos and I had been practising my dismount.

But, I’ll be honest, I did surprise myself and probably everyone else by doing a perfect transition. So much so, that it drew a few favourable comments. I say perfect, but I broke the pedal as I jumped off.

Sheer delight at finishing my first triathlon

My spirit raised, I raced into my strongest discipline. All that really means is that I’m never usually in danger of killing myself when I run. I was a little tired after the swim and cycle, but I pushed on and started to overtake a few, not many, but enough to give me hope of not finishing dead last. As I approached the finish line, I did my now mandatory sprint and raised my arms in triumph as I finished my first ever triathlon. It might only have been a wee one, and I might have ended up in the wrong third of rankings, but now I wasn’t only a runner but I was a triathlete.

Not only that, but I had outlived the bike, which was subsequently taken to the dump (I doubt that even Glasgow Bike Station would have wanted it).

I’ve since bought a couple of “proper” bikes, via my work’s cycle scheme and Vitality – you may have seen my #Everyday Athlete video.

I will also finally take swimming lessons and check out Vigour Events, who specialise in outdoor swimming. I will regain my fitness and I will see if Garmin’s Forerunner , Varia and Edge gadgets (all the gear, no idea) make me faster and more safe, as I use active travel as a means of training.

For, in 2018, I will compete in my first Ironman 70.3, while next year I might try (sorry, I couldn’t resist) and find a couple of local triathlons and/or duathlons.

From fat to fit and from try-athlete to triathlete

July 27, 2016 1 comment

Cycling Journey Running Triathlon

Father Figure and Father’s Day Gifts

written by Stephen Morrison

This week Daniel, Jack and myself feature in this Vitality Father’s Day Father Figures magazine article and we even star in one of their up-coming “Everyday Athletes” adverts.

However, I will not be celebrating Father’s Day, for I am not their father.

I am Stephen, their step dad kind of thing and although I have been a part of their lives for over four years, I do not seek to replace their daddy. I am very happy being a father figure and I am happy taking them to the park, to the barbers and often to task for not tidying their rooms or doing their homework (Jack!). I love them to bits and I get to spend every day with them and half my wages on them.

That being said, they rarely buy me Father’s Day gifts or even Christmas or birthday presents (hey I am still a big kid and love pressies) so I thought I would publish a wee wish list, especially for their mum and maybe other mums or partners to read and to then consider buying for their active and want to get active dads (anything but a jumper or “Best Dad” mug).

Let’s help get some of those father figures into shape with these Father’s Day Gifts

Danny, Jack and Teresa, this is the Garmin Forerunner 735XT. Just saying.

I love my Garmin Forerunner 235, but now that I am running less (damn knee), cycling more and hoping to swim more, I would give my right arm (I wear my watch on my left) for the new Garmin Forerunner 735 XT. It might mean that I swim only in circles, but I would be doing it in style. The 735 takes the great features of the 235, such as the wrist heart rate monitor, the smart notifications and activity tracking to a new height (or is that depth?) with the ability to track swimming, SUPing (read my SUP blog) and even strength training. It is quite expensive at £360 but it is feature packed and I just know that it will look amazing on my wrist and will undoubtably make me cycle and swim faster. It is most definitely not another waste of money that will lie in a drawer, darling Teresa.

While we are on the subject of Father’s Day gifts that I probably won’t get, let’s stick with Garmin. I have been having a wee look at their bike kit and I am dreaming of adding more value onto my bike than the bike is actually worth. More than I am worth, if I am honest. The Varia Rearview Radar, Insight Display and Smart Bike Lights all appeal to my “all the gear, no idea” mentality, but my “don’t want to be homeless” mentality is thankfully in control. For the moment, that is. While I am in dream land, I might as well ask for the VIRB XE Action Camera, Vector 2 Power Meter and Edge 1000. A snip at a mere £2,260 for the complete set of these Garmin Father’s Day gifts.

Back on this planet, your purse might not quite stretch that far and if looking for some more reasonably priced Father’s Day gifts, Garmin has a whole range of activity trackers. My pick is the Vivosmart HR. It is vastly superior to the the Vivoactive 3 and indeed is probably the most value for money activity tracker currently on the market. It is non intrusive, easy to operate and understand, while it is very robust. You simply put it on and move, with a single charge lasting five days. You can wear it in the shower and in bed, where it will track how restful your sleep is. It will even connect to your mobile phone and display smart notifications such as emails, weather and social media updates. It can currently be bought from several retailers for under £100

Just watch out for the red inactivity bar. Once you have been inactive for too long and it reaches its limit, you receive an electric shock to motivate you into moving. Ok. I made that last bit up, If you really want that feature you will gave to buy the Pavlock. Yes, this really exists and yes, you shock yourself. I am shocked that 10,000 people have bought into this madness to modify their behaviours. The Vivosmart HR simply vibrates.

Non Garmin Father’s Day Gifts

Away from Garmin gadgets, there are a couple of fitness items that have made it onto my Father’s Day Gifts list and which are slightly cheaper than anything above, but still mange to express how much you love him (or me).

Lululemon Men’s Shorts. Possibly the best shorts that I have ever worn.

First up we have Lululemon shorts at £68. Yes, I did actually type £68 and I would actually pay (or hope someone else will pay) that for these shorts, as I already have a pair. Lululemon Glasgow kindly gifted me a pair to wear in the Vitality advert and I LOVE them.

My initial opinion of Lululemon clothing was that it was expensive yoga pants for athletic women. Imagine my surprise when I discovered that they sold superb men’s gear all the way up to size xxl. And none of this Italian designer label xxl nonsense that fits the average 12 year old in Scotland (we really do have an obesity issue). The finish, feel, fit and functionality of these shorts is unlike any other shorts I have worn. Treat the special man in your life to a pair from HERE and maybe don’t tell him how much you paid!

Ideal for all outdoor activities, including standing on a touchline or at a Man V Fat Football match.

Next up, we have the excellent New Balance Tech Training jacket. Wee Jack is determined to join the local football team, St Cadoc’s, in August and I can see myself standing on a touchline as the wind and rain batter down on me (I live in Glasgow, remember). New Balance are positioning themselves as one of the top athletic brands and they are producing some excellent training shoes and apparel. With it’s fleece collar, water resistant shell, storm cuffs and hood it compares favourably with other branded mid range water resistant jackets. It is versatile and could also be used for running, cycling, walking or even at a Man V Fat Football League. Pick one up for £75 and encourage your man to get outside in any weather and to #sitlessmovemore

Start shedding pounds, without spending too many with Man V Fat

You might also want to encourage hime to pick up a book. Not just any book, but the best male fat loss book available. Ok. I am slightly biased. It is written by my friend, Andrew Shanahan and I do feature in the book, but it is genuinely full of sensible, practical, applicable and most importantly weight reducing advice. It is of course the Man V Fat: The Weight Loss Manual, available for under £8.00 from Amazon.

WARNING: This is one of those Father’s Day gifts that require tact and diplomacy. Please make sure that your father (or partner) needs and wants to lose weight.

Equally excellent is the Man V Fat website, where you can join an amazing group of current and future losers, find out more about Man V Fat Football and read wonderful reviews of items such as the Garmin Index Scale (yes, I possibly do have a Garmin obsession).

Give him the Father’s Day Gifts of Happy Feet

For my very last item on my Father’s Day Gifts list, I have selected something free (aren’t you glad) and something that ties in with my current series on Feet for Life. Why not book you father or special man in your life in for a free foot health check at these participating locations? He is going to be active and he should have the best platform on which to get started, in addition to the best gadgets hopefully someone else’s money can buy.

Feet are for life and not just for Father’s Day

June 12, 2016 0 comment