Sportsister September/October

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sportsister the heartbeat of female sport in the uk Issue 8: September/October 2010 * inspirational * motivational * accessible * Commonwealth Games preview: Who to watch Essential autumn running kit Sporty spa breaks Getting started: Squash Become a better runner with Jenny Meadows *win* Discover Geocoaching and win Merrell and Garmin gear worth £650 Going For Gold

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The Sports Magazine for women. This issue includes an interview with the England Women's Netball team ahead of the Commonwealth games, training tips with Jenny Meadows, Getting started: Squash and essential autumn running kit, plus loads more great articles for active and sporty women!

Transcript of Sportsister September/October

Page 1: Sportsister September/October

sportsister the heartbeat of female sport in the uk Issue 8: September/October 2010

* inspirational * motivational * accessible *

CommonwealthGames preview:

Who to watch

Essential autumn running kitSporty spa breaks

Getting started: Squash

Become a better runner with Jenny Meadows

*win*Discover Geocoaching

and win Merrell and Garmin gear

worth £650

Going For Gold

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regularsNews and Views The latest news from the world of women’s sport.

Wellbeing We talk health with Jessica Ennis, round up the best lip balms and tell you all you need to know about bootcamps.

Half Time Our guide to what’s new…what’s good…what works...what’s worth spending your money on...what’s fun...

The Knowledge - Running Trail shoes are put to the test – see which brands comes out on top.

Nutrition

and tested.

Travel Head to a spa this autumn and combine

4 Stars 5 Questions

what Victoria Pendleton has to say.

Competitions Win Garmin, Merrell and Finisterre kit plus entries to Royal Parks Foundation half marathon.

Put To The Test Sportsister tries The London Triathlon.

What’s On? Get inspired with our pick of the best sporty

Sportsister founders: Danielle Sellwood and Louise Hudson Editorial Director: Louise Hudson Creative Director: Danielle Sellwood Commercial Director: Gary Cole Sales Director: Anne Mead-Green 01225 326 428 Business Development Director: Sally Lockyer Contributors: Rachael Woolston, Jessica Whittington, Chloe Hibbert, Caitlin Ritchie, Poppy Bending Beckett, Lisa Warman and Anna Young.Address: Tel: 01225 326 430 Email: [email protected] by:

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start-line Sportsister the heartbeat of female sport in the UK

Welcome to Sportsister’s September/October issue.

the door wide open for many new faces to shine on the big stage. And for sports like netball which isn’t in the Olympics, this is their chance to take part in a multi sport

why we chose to shoot two members of the England netball

We hope you enjoy the issue,

Louise & Danielle

P.S. Don’t miss our great subscription offer this month. For

door plus a fab pair of Smartwool running socks worth

featuresRun Like The Wind – running kit

fresh colours.

Going For Gold We meet two members of the England netball team who are gunning for gold at this year’s Commonwealth Games.

Getting Started – Squash A beginner’s guide to this great sport. It’s cheap, accessible and a great workout; learn how to get started.

Commonwealth Games Preview Our guide to the home nation’s medal contenders at the 2010 Commonwealth Games.

Hit The Gym In Style

Train with Jenny Meadows World champion medallist Jenny Meadows

core and make you a better runner.

onlineDon’t forget to visit sportsister.com – it’s packed with training plans, nutrition advice, kit guides and competitions. Updated daily – there’s always something new to read.

Sportsister blogsFollow the Sportsister bloggers, including top

Getting Started GuidesIf you are looking for a new sport to try make

of getting started guides – there’s sure to besomething to inspire you.

Competitions

Sportsister Newsletter

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Photo: Sean Malyon

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The Sportsister team on location at Surrey Sports Park.

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Lunchtime is for running as Garmin launches the 4 Miler

more and more of a challenge for many of us.

outside of work – the lunchtime 4 Miler.

retailer Sweatshop and London free-press title City A.M. to create the 4 Miler as a fantastic

getting its work-life balance straight.

Workers around the country are being encouraged to reclaim their lunch hours, break free from their desks, plan a four mile loop to run in their lunch break and measure how far and how fast they run with their Garmin GPSsportswatches.

So switch off the computer, stick on your running

lunchtime.

www.garmin4milechallenge.co.uk and let the challenge begin.

news Sportsister the heartbeat of female sport in the UK

and views

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in May 2011 and you can be a part of it.

Starting from Melbourne, the competitors will ride north through Victoria, New South Wales and

kilometres a day to be in with a chance of winning the £5,000 cash prize.

This October,

toss your old sports bras into pink bins

outside Curves Health Clubs. Every kilo of bras

equals £1 for Breast Cancer Care. Donate from October 18-30 and join Curves for

free!

Ever thought about biking across Australia?

Sportsister BlogName: Ellen WhiteNikeWomen Select AmbassadorClub: Arsenal Ladies Football ClubAge: 21

I’m Ellen White - footballer; Lady Gaga fan and last

begun what I hope is a long career with the England Women’s senior football team. I scored the winner in our last match…so it’s been a sparkling start! The

training and anticipation for us as we head towards what we hope is a Victory Moment at World Cup 2011!

This blog will keep you up to date on all the goings on backstage with both my England and Arsenal training and games. The highs, the lows, and the gritty training it takes to get there. I am also a NikeSelect – part of a team of girls chosen to

qualifying group with one game remaining against Austria on Saturday 21st August. A game which we

Topping the group means that we are now through to the European play-off games - where if we win our home and away legs we are through to the World

Support from the country means the world to us. Sometimes people forget about female football, and knowing eyes are on us really helps us step-up for our country. Make sure you keep checking when the games are and come out and support the team. I know the squad REALLY appreciates it when

you can be our twelfth player!

friendlies coming up before some of the team go away on international duty and these will ensure we’re working like a well-oiled machine!

Anyway I’d better be off – penalty practice to

Sportsister website to see what’s been happening

delighted to be able to open this up to other people with an appetite for

Anyone with determination, bags of energy

line.”

www.transozbikeride.com.

Photo: istock.com

Congratulations to...

Olympic Games medallist when she won

the -55kg weight category against Vietnam’s Than Thao Nguyen in front of a big crowd at

Jones, who spent the month prior to the

taekwondo, landed the winning kick to the

Jade Jones

You can follow my blog on sportsister.com.

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Run like the wind

1. Brooks Equilibrium Long Sleeve TeePrice: £24.00 Colours: Brite Green/Brite White

Stockists: www.brooksrunning.co.uk2. Brooks LSD Lite Jacket

Price: £50.00 Colours: Brite White/Brite Green

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Price: £36.00 Colour:

Stockists: www.shockabsorber.co.uk/focus4. Salomon XT Wings II Softshell Jacket

Price: £100.00 Colour:Black, Blue and White

Stockists: www.salomon.com/uk 5. Sugoi MidZero ZapKnicker

Price: £50.00 Colour: BlackStockists: http://sugoi.com

6. New Balance 760Price: £80.00 Colour:

and Black/PinkStockists: www.newbalance.co.uk

7. Go Lite Black Mountain Thermal Wind VestPrice: Colour:Blue/Deep Water, Black and Bright Rose/Granite

Stockists: www.golite.com8. Sugoi Convector Zip

Price: £36.00 Colours: and Laguna

Stockists: http://sugoi.com9. NikeWomen Determination Bra

Price: £25.00 Colours: White, Blue and Green

Stockists: nikestore.com10. The North Face Stormy Trail Jacket

Price: Colours:

Stockists: www.thenorthface.com/eu11. adidas adiStar Split Shorts

Price: £30.00 Colour: BlackStockists: www.adidas.com

12. Ronhill Vizion Winter TightPrice: £45.00 Colour: Black/FluoPink

Stockists: www.ronhill.com13. Asics GEL Cumulus

Price: £85.00 Colour: White/OrchidStockists: www.asics.co.uk

Main image: Gore Running System Lady Jacket

at www.gorerunningwear.co.uk

As autumn arrives and darker nights greet us opt for bright berry tones, cobalt blues and apple greens. Layering is the best option

at this time of year and a lightweight running jacket becomes your new best friend.

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Going for gold

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Cover story

Two of England’s netball team, co-captain Sonia Mkoloma and

on their mind. And that’s winning gold at the Commonwealth Games.

Sportsister’s Louise Hudson takes some time on court to hear

England camp right now.

this kind of record.

Series last year it was New Zealand who lifted the trophy. There’s no doubt that if you want to win gold in netball these are the teams to beat.

battling it out towards the end.

go out consistently across all quarters and in a major tournament.”

And it’s this string of recent victories, in particular the one against Australia, that’s setting this team alight.

recorded a victory over the Australian Diamonds.

of the three match series 41-40. It was a huge moment for the squad, and

Australia in their last defeat against an England side. But it ended in

second match defeat and then coming agonisingly close in the third. After

this Commonwealth title is theirs for the taking.

competition, we don’t train as hard as we do and compete like we do to

those top nations and I keep thinking what an amazing opportunity this is for us and we should go in there with absolutely no fear.”

nine-team league across England, Scotland and Wales, and the ANZ

it out.

the new multi-million pound sporting facility Surrey Sports Park, which is home to her Superleague team Surrey Storm. Talking to her I feel

work. She’s one of the faces of Surrey Sports Park and life size photos of her greet you at the entrance to the facility.

But when playing in the ANZ Championship, things are different, Sonia

a regular basis for playing the sport, just to help support us while we’re there. This means we can concentrate solely on netball.”

few years it hasn’t actually changed that much for us.”

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Quick fire questions...Favourite movie? Tamsin: Moulin Rouge Sonia: Pulp Fiction

Favourite TV show? Tamsin: Glee Sonia: CSI

Favourite music? Tamsin: Justin Timberlake Sonia: R&B

Last book you read? Tamsin: The Twilight Series by Stephenie MeyerSonia: The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson

Favourite meal? Tamsin: Steak, chips and salad Sonia: Rice and peas and stewed chicken

If you weren’t a netball player, what sport would you do? Tamsin: Football Sonia: Basketball

been really successful for both sides. I think it’s an amazing opportunity for someone

most played women’s sport in this country. If the right sponsor got on board here it would take off just the same as it has there.

models are few and far between and that needs to change. I know when I was

that girls could aspire to but we need to make them stars, and show that you can make a career out of sport too.”

So what is the dream for the England netball team – gold at the Commonwealths,

create a fully professional league. And then we can take that worldwide. How

if they could do that it would be the best thing for the sport and for me personally I’d prefer that to a spot in the Olympics.”

The netball tournament at the Commonwealth Games runs from October 4-12 and

you can keep up with all the news and match reports on sportsister.com.

England netballer Stacey Francis will be blogging exclusively for Sportsister from the

Commonwealth Games, so make sure you follow her on sportsister.com to get all

the latest news from inside the England camp.

Photography: Sean Malyon www.seanmalyon.co.ukStyling: Danielle SellwoodHair & make up: Sarah Crick-Linton www.jacsarbeauty.co.ukShot on location at Surrey Sports Park www.surreysportspark.co.uk

Want to watch international netball closer to home?Don’t miss The 2010 World Netball Series. See England, New Zealand, Australia, Malawi, Jamaica and South Africa competing under the Fast Net rules. This new form of netball is faster, has rolling subs, power plays and you can shoot from outside the circle for double points.

November 19-21, Liverpool Echo Arenawww.worldnetballseries.com

skills rather than serious competition. Visit www.englandnetball.co.uk/Back-to-Netball for more information. And don’t miss Sportsister’s Getting Started guide to Netball on sportsister.com.

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The basicsSquash is a fast-paced, high-energy game. It’s cheap to play, is sociable and once you get the hang of a few basic rules, easy to understand. Britain is also a great squash nation, with four women currently in the top 10 world rankings, so there is plenty of inspiration out there for you too.

This is a sport you need to play against someone of a similar standard, making it ideal for starting out with a friend or work colleague. It offers you a great cardio workout – in fact playing squash for one hour will burn between

works both your upper and lower body and is great for toning your arms and torso.

The courtSquash courts are traditionally found indoors and are surrounded by four

half meter-high metal area at the bottom of the front wall known as the tin. If the ball strikes here it is out.

The out line runs along the top of the front wall and the side walls. Shots hit

The scoring

you are awarded a point during the course of play if:

Your opponent lets the ball bounce twice

Your opponent fails to hit the front wall with the ball before the ball has bounced

Games are usually played to 11 points unless the score is 10-10, in which case the game is decided with two clear points. Competition matches are

obstruction must be considered. This is where lets and strokes come in. A

of interference from the opponent. The point is played again with the same

attempted the shot but missed it, then no let is called. Referees will call when a let should be played. If you are just playing socially it is up to both players’ to decide.

Getting Started

Squash could be just what you are after.

Need more inspiration?

There are loads more getting started guides online at

started in a new sport including:

Badminton Canoeing Football Indoor climbing Triathlon + Many More

*12 www.sportsister.com

deemed the player did not make enough effort to get out of the way and thus

wall it is a straight point.

You can wear your usual sports gear. If you are playing inside, which is usual

recommended. You will also need a good sports bra suitable for high impact sports. Footwear with non-marking soles is essential.

choosing a racquet, in addition to cost.

Weight:

force they require a powerful swing, so you may want to choose a slightly head-weighted model to assist you.

Size and grip:and control.

Stiffness:

Prices can range enormously, from around £25 for the cheapest model to

Finding a club

will be able to get information on local clubs. The English site has a

September 5-12, WISPA Women’s World Open Championships, Netherlands.

October 11-16, Coronation London Open, London.

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Commonwealth GamesPreviewSportsister shares its thoughts on which of the home nation’s athletes will be on the podium at

all on sportsister.com. Affectionately dubbed the ‘Friendly Games’, the 2010 Commonwealth

competing all currently making headlines, causing some to question the place of the Commonwealth Games in today’s sporting landscape.

across 21 sports, including four para-sports, will battle it out to become Commonwealth champion.

Archery

In addition to her Paralympic gold medal Brown has won gold at the last two IPC World Championships for archers with a disability.

AthleticsRising star Steph Twell will be competing for Scotland after switching hernationality earlier this year. The world junior 1500m champion will be hoping

season out through injury and will be defending her Commonwealth title.

hoping to impress. Badminton

defense of his Commonwealth Games crown. The duo are already

the world’s top 15 pairs since forming a partnership in October 2008.

for Jersey and Scotland’s bronze medallist from Melbourne, Susan Egelstaff.

Cycling

sprint talent Becky James. While on the road Olympic champion Nicole

medal tally.

England is yet to announce its cycling team at the time of going to print and with some top cyclists opting to compete at the European Championships rather than the Commonwealths it’s hard to say who will be racing in Delhi. But look out for Lizzie Armitstead and Jo Rowsell on the track and Emma Pooley, on the road, who look likely to be named.

Don’t miss the Galashan twins Helen and Carol, two Scots who competedas gymnasts in the 2006 Games. At 14 years of age and the youngest

place at the European Championships last month in the 3m springboard. Tonia Couch is England’s best hope.

Hockey

that the timing is right for this strong squad.

An increasingly packed schedule has led to numerous withdrawals and a

Jessica Ennis - Britain’s leading lady of athletics won’t be adding the Commonwealths to her growing list of heptathlon titles.Victoria Pendleton – Has chosen to concentrate on the European

Beth Tweddle – As the 2010 Artistic Gymnastics World Championships start just a few days after the Commonwealth’s Britain’s top gymnasts will be competing in Rotterdam rather than in Delhi.

Danielle Brown

Nicole Cooke

England’s hockey team

Hannah Miley

Achieng Ajulu-Bushell

Photo:

Photo:

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Spotlight: Rebecca AdlingtonWhat do the Commonwealth Games mean to you? I am really

important part of a journey that I want to really appreciate and enjoy as I progress through my career. Actually going is especially

How do you prepare yourself mentally for an event of this magnitude? I try and make sure I’m in the best physical shape

own performance and try not to get distracted by what other people are doing. I know I can’t really control how anyone else performs; I

on the day, get warmed up and picture the race ahead of me.

What are your personal goals for the Games? To enjoy the

to push myself that bit harder to win. The answer is that if anything,

meters, it’s such a great race.

Who in your eyes are the rising stars in your sport? Jazmin

is great that she in the British team now. There’s also Achieng Ajulu-Bushell who won the women’s 50m breaststroke at the British

What tips can you give our readers to help them with their swim training? Variation is the best way to stop getting bored of training. Also, I

with someone, so bring a friend or get a coach.

Personally I do 10 pool sessions per week, each lasting between two and two-and-a-half hours. Outside of the pool, I do three gym sessions a week, which are mostly circuit based, lasting about an

Double gold Olympic medallist Rebecca Adlington is sponsored by Speedo.

For more information visit www.speedo.co.uk

Netballin the netball calendar and a real chance for this sport to shine on the big stage.

Australia and New Zealand. They will be hoping to go one better than the bronze medal they picked up in Melbourne four year ago. Look out for

ShootingCommonwealth Games and returned home with a medal from each, one of

Championships in India.

SquashWith four players from the home nations currently in the world top ten rankings keep a close eye on the squash in Delhi. Jenny Duncalf, Alison Waters and

SwimmingDouble Olympic gold medalist Rebecca Adlington will be competing at her

after setting the fastest 800m freestyle time of the year so far the 21 year old’s

backstroke champion Lizzie Simmonds and world open water champion

Achieng Ajulu-Bushell, the 16 year old national 50m and 100m breaststroke

Delhi. Caitlin McClatchey, who won double gold in Melbourne, and Hannah

Scotland, while Northern Ireland’s best hopes are Melanie Nocher and rising 15 year old star Sycerika McMahon.

TennisTennis is making its Commonwealth Games debut in Delhi. Look out for Britain’s’ number one woman Elena Baltacha, representing Scotland at the

ranking rise to a career high of 52 which equates to a Commonwealth ranking

star, and Britain’s number one junior, Heather Watson will represent the Channel Islands.

WeightliftingTeenage sensation Zoe Smith is hoping to hit the headlines in Delhi. The 16 year

under-53kg at the 2008 Commonwealth Youth Games in Pune, India when at just 14, she was the youngest member of the England team. In the four years since taking up weightlifting the former gymnast has broken more than 300 records and currently holds the senior English records at both 58kg and 63kg for the snatch, clean & jerk and combined total, as well as the 53kg snatch

before retirement.

Wrestling

Manchester Games and has now turned to wrestling. Also look out for Scots

wrestling.

Achieng Ajulu-Bushell

Jenny Duncalf

Zoe Smith

Elena Baltacha

Rebecca Adlington

Photo:

England’s netball team

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Sportsister promotion

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department stores

Source: Portsmouth University research 2009,

Scurr et al – tested against ‘no bra conditions’

Get the right sports bra... and stop that bounce

Fitting Informationplaying netball without a sports bra can be equally as uncomfortable, distracting and damaging to your body. Here are a few tips from Shock Absorber on choosing the right sports bra:

wear.

• Do the bounce test. Jump up and down and check you are properly supported.

To see how much your breasts could bounce without a Shock Absorber sports bra, check out the ‘bounce-o-metre’ at www.shockabsorber.co.uk

Wellbeing

It’s great that Shock Absorber

to England Netball as a good

sports bra is an essential part

of all netball players’ kit. Shock

Absorber sports bras are really

supportive and comfortable and

we wouldn’t do a training session

or play a match without wearing

one!”

Eboni Beckford-Chambers

Intosport.com’s Shock Absorber Netball Academy

Through the Shock Absorber Netball Academy, players, coaches and parents can access high quality and credible resources completely free of

of the game of netball including skills and tactics

psychology and nutrition and hydration.

Intosport.com is also running a fantastic competition for your netball team to win a prize worth £3,500.

information.

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Sportsister promotion

perfect for sporty girls both during and after your workout thanks to their fresh and natural look.

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Wellbeing

Jessica EnnisWell, I can’t reach for the medicine cabinet because so many products are banned! So I just stick to simple things like honey and lemon drinks, plenty of water and loads of rest. I am pretty in touch with my body and how it is, so I can usually catch things early and that really helps them not get too bad.

At what stage would you decide not to compete through illness?It depends on the competition really, but I can usually tell if I am well enough. For me it’s a bit different, this is my career - generally I would say don’t compete if you are not well as there will always be another race or competition.

Simple Kind To Lips Intensive Lip Moisturiser

* Sportsister loves *

A perfect choice for sporty girls, this is a well priced no frills option. With no perfume and no colour it

stay soft and moisturised and look great too.www.simple.co.uk

Clinique Long Last Glosswear SPF 15

If you are looking for a gloss that stays put then this is it. While we can’t guarantee the 8 hours the brand claims it lasts for,

glossy and moistured for longer than usual and with the added bonus of built in SPF it’s ideal for wearing

www.clinique.co.uk

Madara Regenerating Lip Balm

A top choice for a natural and organic lip balm. This contains Baltic rose hip, barley sprouts, nettle and

moisturising and has a

is well-packaged.www.madara.co.uk

Yes To Carrots C Me Smile Lip Butter

Containing a combination of shea butter, Zambian

It also contains coconut

your mouth from all of the elements all of the time.www.victoriahealth.com

Skin Shop Liquorice Balm

This balm has been designed with cold sore sufferers in mind as liquorice contains glycyrrhizic acid which

can lead to infection. It’s also really nourishing and keeps lips in tip top shape at all times.www.skinshop.co.uk

All about….bootcamps

and breathe the bootcamp for a week/weekend or go to regular sessions in your local area just as

indoors.

Best bit:

More info:

Fit For a Princess run regular one day, and one and two week bootcamps across London and the

Cyprus, with mornings dedicated to workouts, afternoons at leisure before a pre dinner session.Best bit:

More info:

Head to Sportsister.com to read more about bootcamps, including our top tips for getting the most out of your camp.

Is it important to you to feel well groomed at an event?

and being prepared for the day.

Do you have any favourite products?Yes, my Simple moisturiser, I am rarely without it. And

How do you deal with a niggle or slight injury? Well I am lucky in as much as I can get it assessed straight away and get treatment. But if it’s just a niggle, a massage and some rest usually sorts it out. Rest is key!

World Heptathlon Champion Jess Ennis is supporting the adidas women’s 5k challenge on the 5th September www.womenschallenge.co.uk . Runners are encouraged sign up and run with a breast friend. Jess Ennis is pictured wearing the pink ribbon running range, of

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....what’s new....what’s good....what works....what’s worth spending your money on....what’s fun....what’s hot....what’s special....what’s new...what’s good....

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half-timeOlympic watch: Countdown CoinTo celebrate the upcoming London 2012 Games, The Royal Mint has released its second Countdown Coin. It’s been created to commemorate two years to go before the capital

This year’s coin displays the number two, shown in

line. The design is surrounded by a framework border to symbolise the new Olympic

www.royalmint.com/london2012

*win*Tubes

is ideal for all round training. Whether you enjoy pounding the treadmill, jogging around the park

it’ll work for you.

with the sole of the shoe made up of cylindrical

foot in-motion, absorbing more impact on heel strike. While the smaller cylinders on the inside

How to winJust head to sportsister.com and click on our

competitions button in the top right hand corner of the homepage.

Sportsister Loves… adidas’ new 26 range

adidas has launched ‘26’ a new range

apparel.

First up is the ‘26’ cycling range. There are

comprising a jacket, top and t-shirts.

London 2012 pictograms, whilst

colours, zipped collars and back pockets.

Further lines are planned in the continuing run-up to the London 2012 Games, with basketball apparel launching in October and other sports adding to the range throughout 2011 and 2012.

www.adidas.com

The women’s rugby website www.scrumqueens.com

European Championships, the Nations Cup and the Women’s Rugby World Cup and its qualifying competitions, and focuses predominantly on

and hits from 140 countries. It is the only dedicated international women’s rugby website and its writers

with editor Ali Donnelly now contributing a regular blog to skysports.com and writing for a range of other titles around the world.

and analysis, a great image library and also hostsblogs from some of the world’s leading players.

www.scrumqueens.com

Website: Scrumqueens.com

Alibi,

imitation ‘high’.

Price: £1.45 for 330mlwww.alibidrink.com

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Fitness4Mum is one of the country’s leading brands in

Simply email us at

www.sportsister.com 19

Shop watch ....Look out for Nike’s first ever dedicated running store, opening this October in London’s Covent Garden. The first of its kind anywhere in the world Nike’s aim is to create a store for every kind of runner – from the fashionista who prizes style; to the music fan who wants access to the latest Nike Plus Sport Music tracks.

We’ll be reporting from the launch on sportsister.com so check online for more information.

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Tri-tastic!

Three women on a mission. Words to strike fear into their competitors, and elicit cheers from the female sporting community. When Emily Ducker, Sarah

gear just wasn’t up to scratch for the growing number of female participants, they came to the rescue with Go Spin.

Emily, Sarah and Anna are all keen sportswomen – marathon runners,

stylish, well-designed kit for outdoor enthusiasts and gym bunnies alike.

girls wanted to create all-new designs for triathlon, cycling and spinning from

gorgeous gymwear and technical gear is not just an impossible dream. The

Best of all, it really is oh-so-pretty.

Prices:www.go-spin.co.uk

It’s All About the Bike - The Pursuit of Happiness on

Two Wheels

form the perfect bike. The title playfully nods to Lance Armstrong’s memoirs ‘It’s Not About

It’s an entertaining read that has plenty of historical references,

Don’t miss England’s netballers new dress

together behind the scenes to create a one off netball dress for the girls to wear at the Commonwealth Games. The brand new ‘Commonwealth celebratorydress’ which incorporates the St George’s cross and the ‘Lion of England’ is unlike any

England’s Vice Captain Pamela Cookey told

from the others and had something really special. This one is amazing. We also wanted gold on the dress - I guess as a bit

that we really are world class athletes wholook the part.” www.kukrisports.com

Sun smart: Transitions lenses

Don’t neglect your eyes when it comes to kitting yourself out for your

rays passing through the clouds, eye damage should be a concern all year

designed to be clear indoors and

www.transitions.com

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20 www.sportsister.com

Page 21: Sportsister September/October

Trail shoes – put to the testFinding that perfect pair of trail shoes can mean the difference between bearing

their paces.

Nike Air Pegasus 26+ Trail Shoe, £75.00

What the makers say: These

with a cushioned midsole and a ‘stoneshield’ to protect the foot from underlying stones as well

lugs to help the shoe grip in

What our tester said: A chunky looking shoe that I was initially worried would

light but had great cushioning and support though the arch of my foot which

For more details visit www.nike.com

Asics Gel Trail Attack 6, £70.00

What the makers say: With cushioning in the heel to help absorb impact and a plate to

also been engineered with

downhill on all types of terrain.What our tester said: These had so much traction it was almost like wearing

but brilliant for off road and helped me grip the pedals on my bike too which I wasn’t clipped into. Fantastic. For more details visit www.asics.co.uk

Helly Hansen Trail Moc, £70.00

What the makers say: This is an all purpose shoe designed for use in running, rafting, scrambling

cushioning as well as energy return when pushing off the toe. Plus the all important breathability.What our tester said: Style wise, I wasn’t that keen on the fact they were pink, but in terms of performance I was really impressed. They were amazingly light

For more details visit www.hellyhansen.com

Brooks Cascadia, £80.00

What the makers say: All the

of an off-road shoe meet the makings of a superior running shoe for industry-leading results. What our tester said:

For more details visit www.brooksrunning.co.uk

Head to sportsister.com to read more trail shoe reviews in the full version of this feature.

this autumn.

The Knowledge

Running

Go, Goulding, Go!Ellie Goulding: singer, songwriter and...runner. We don’t know about you, but we’re not aware of many pop stars who use their ‘down-time’

Turns out, Ellie Goulding does, and has launched the ‘Ellie Runs’

Following the success of themusic/running collaboration, the23-year-old has released ‘Run IntoThe Light’, a 30-minute inspirationalrunning aid.

Later this year Ellie will be using this EP

marathon - the Great North Run – to raise money for the British Heart Foundation.

www.nikerunning.com.

The Running School aims to teach people of all ages to how to run and how to run fast, by looking at their biomechanics, balance and form.

Running is a skill like any other sport, and by learning the correct

Mike Antoniades, the founder of The Running School, notes the

and rugby players running as fast as they can, but with a distinct limp and not knowing they are doing it until we point it out in a biomechanical analysis!”

homework, in the shape of a personalised training programme to follow at home.

But running is not just for adults, The Running School also has a

More info: www.runningschool.co.uk

Barefoot trend

rather than strike with our heel, Lee corrected a pronating run style within minutes. We’re not suggesting you head out with no shoes on, but the

features an ultra thin puncture resistant

running barefoot with the protection of normal shoes. www.terraplana.com

www.sportsister.com 21

Page 22: Sportsister September/October

22 www.sportsister.com

Right:Sweaty Betty

Stockists: www.sweatybetty.co.uk

Left:Reebok

Stockists: www.reebok.com

Left:NikeWomen Stockists: nikestore.com

Right:adidas

Stockists: www.adidas.com

Page 23: Sportsister September/October

www.sportsister.com 23

There’s noth-ing better than spending time in the water when the British sum-mer time kicks in. Think surf-ing, open water swimming, diving and snorkelling

Left:NikeWomen

Stockists: nikestore.com

Below:Lucas Hugh

Lucas Hugh

Stockists: www.lucashugh.com

Below:Peak Performance

Stockists:

Above:Sweaty Betty

Stockists: www.sweatybetty.co.uk

Page 24: Sportsister September/October

These gels and chews are to be taken before or during a race or training.

jeopardise your race results!

CLIF Shot Bloks CLIF Shot Bloks are made with a natural source of sodium, potassium andmagnesium. The easy-to-access packaging helps to minimize

Flavours: Mountain Berry, Orange, Strawberry PriceMore info: www.clifbar.com

Sport Beans

balanced supply of B Vitamins and Vitamin C, as well as electrolytes to

perfect portable power.

Flavours: Lemon Lime, Orange, Raspberry, Fruit PunchPrice:More info: www.sportbeans.co.uk

Power Bar RideShots

Flavours: Lemon, ColaPrice:More info: www.powerbar.com

gels also contain the essential electrolyte sodium which helps put back

per hour. Make sure you keep hydrated as normal when taking the gels.

Flavours:Price: More info:

Munchy SeedsLots of snack products land on the desk here at Sportsister. Some are

great. But only the ones that are both delicious and nutritious get the

the test! We all know that seeds are good for us, they are an

and some spicy. You can either enjoy them as a munchy snack or sprinkle them on top of a salad or your cereal or just about anything really. But be warned

Price:www.munchyseeds.co.uk

24 www.sportsister.com

Nutrition

Energy gels are a great way to ensure that you perform to your best ability, and Sportsister has been .

Make your own cereal barsaccording to your own taste - plus these will cost a fraction of the cost of shop bought bars. Recipe by Anita Bean.

Ingredients

85 g no added sugar muesli

2 egg whites

1. 2. Combine the oats, muesli and dried fruit in a bowl.3. Warm the honey in a small saucepan until it is runny. Add to the bowl.4. Stir in the remaining ingredients.5. 28 cm baking tin. Bake for 20–25 minutes, until golden. When cool, cut into bars.

Nutritional analysis

Protein 3.3 gCarbohydrate 31 g

Saturates 0.1 gFibre 1.8 gSalt 0.1 g

Sports NutritionFor WomenPlanning what you eat before, during

healthy diet will increase your energy and endurance, reduce fatigue and

This in-depth book by Anita Bean

sports nutrition and women’s eating habits. Staring from the basic

from eating disorders to pregnancy, this is a great guide for serious athletes and health conscious women alike. It would also be an essential referencefor coaches and teachers too.

Sports Nutrition for Women By Anita Bean (£14.99)Published by A&C Black

Page 25: Sportsister September/October

www.sportsister.com 25

Nutritional analysis

Protein 3.3 gCarbohydrate 31 g

Saturates 0.1 gFibre 1.8 gSalt 0.1 g

Page 26: Sportsister September/October
Page 27: Sportsister September/October

Top tips for beginnersTravel

ride or a hike in the mountains.

Autumn Spa Break

Cycle and Spa BreakSet in the New Forest, SenSpa at Carey’s Manor hotel is a

to make the most of the stunning local area and are highly recommended. SenSpa is a Thai style award winning spa with top class facilities including a hydrotherapy pool, sauna,

Signature Massage and the Saboo Deep Cleanse that uses

Morocco to intensely clean and refresh your entire body.

Visit www.careysmanor.com for more information.

Budget Boutique Break If you are on a budget this spa break in Swanage,

a boutique B&B just two minutes from the beach. With two spa rooms and a small but considered

option for some pampering.

climbing, coasteering or abseiling or go on a cycle safari along the stunning Jurassic Coast.

treatments start at £25, half a day climbing costs £30 and a cycle safari starts at £20 per hour.

Visit:www.swanagehaven.comwww.cumulusoutdoorevents.com www.cyclesafaris.co.ukfor more information.

Biohotel Stanglwirt in the Tyrol region of Austria is a world class spa in a breathtaking location. Days can be spent riding one of the hotels’ 20 Lipizzaner horses, you can try Nordic walking or take a guided hike in the surrounding Wilder

Book a Radiant and Fit package and this three night break includes a Vinoble facial and body

yoga classes and use of the rock sauna and rock bath.

The food is healthy and delicious with produce coming from the hotels’ local farm. There are also tennis, golf, running and riding packages

Prices start at £515 for the Radiant and Fit break.

Visit www.stanglwirt.com for more information.

Radiant and Fit

Photo: Purbeck District Council Photo: Purbeck District Council

www.sportsister.com 27

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28 www.sportsister.com

Where can I pick up Sportsister?

you can guarantee your copy each issue – see page 30.

Events

of the highlights.

Anthony Nolan:Birmingham City Council: European Gymnastics Championships Boutique Run: www.boutiquesport.co.ukDirt Divas: IRB Women’s Rugby World Cup 2010: www.rwcwomens.comIrish Universities Track and Field Championships: www.iuaa.orgRun Liverpool:Salford Womens 5kmThe Tunbridge Wells Half Marathon: www.twharriers.org.ukVOTWO events:Wimbledon Tennis Championships: www.wimbledon.org

Retailers Beoutdoors: www.beoutdoors.comEvans Cycles:Runners Need: www.runnersneed.co.ukSheactive:Workplay bags: www.workplay-bags.com

Page 29: Sportsister September/October

1. If you weren’t a badminton player, what other sport would you choose? Hockey as I played at school, and we had a really good team. We had a few girls that played for England, and at thirteen I was at the same

team.

2. How do you like to spend your free time when you’re not on the court?

swimming and dunking him in the pool which is always good fun, and just

friends being a mum as well, so it’s been nice not being a badminton player, being able to switch off completely and be a mum!

3. What’s your favourite TV show?

Inbetweeners.

4. What essential item is always in your kit bag? Paracetamol and my phone. I try and put an iPod in there as well. If I want to just switch

stick my headphones in.

5. What was your experience of school sport like? My school sport

and I was in it! Hockey is probably my strongest memory and was the

school.

www.sportsister.com 29

4 stars

5 questions

1. If you weren’t a cyclist, what other sport would you choose? I wish I could

skier. That looks like the ultimate rush! I honestly don’t know how someone could go

It works all the muscle groups that you want to tone, you’re seeing beautiful scenery and

all at the same time. Sounds like a perfect sport! I think when I retire I’ll probably just do a whole season somewhere.

2. How do you like to spend your free time when you are not on the bike?little dobie puppies - Junkie and Stella. All I

want to do is take them for a walk in the park or in the countryside and play with a tennis ball. I could just do that all day!

3. What’s your favourite TV show? At the moment it is The Vampire Diaries. I don’t know if that’s embarrassing, but I only like watching trashy TV!

4. What essential item is always in your kit bag? Lip balm. I actually can’t function without lip balm. I don’t know if it’s from cycling outside or something, but when my lips feel a bit dry, I hate that.

5. What was your experience of school sport like? I was in lots of sports teams. I was on the hockey team, the rugby team, the rounders

Faye WhiteFootball

Gail EmmsBadminton

1. If you weren’t a footballer what other sport would you choose?

14 I used to compete at district school

2. How do you like to spend your free time when you are not on the

I like to go to the cinema and for a treat I sometimes go to the theatre.

3. What’s your favourite TV show? I’m a big fan of Jack Bauer and 24, I was gutted when the last series

getting into Cougar Town with

Victoria PendletonCycling

Salomon, the mountain sports company, sponsors Natalie White. It was founded in 1947 in the French

alps, since then, they’ve been creating innovative products to enhance the performance of athletes.

1. If you weren’t a trail runner, what other sport would you choose?

spending more time outdoors. These two sports require focus and challenge muscles in a different way, too.

2. How do you like to spend your free time when you are not on the trails? Any free time is spent either mountain biking, climbing or taking

3. What’s your favourite TV show? surprised to learn I don’t own a TV! When I do get to watch it, I enjoy

Natalie WhiteTrail running

Top Gear.

4. What essential item is always in your kit bag? I’d say my Salomon SpeedCross shoes are essential. I run in all conditions, often when the ground is slippery underfoot.

great grip enabling me to change

5. What was your experience of school sport like? I was lucky as I always enjoyed sport and was quite good at it, especially running. I used to enjoy competing with the boys as they made me perform to my best potential. When it came to running, I often left the boys

satisfying!

4. What essential item is always in your kit bag?

the game. 5. What was your experience of school sport like?

force my P.E. teacher to start up a girls after-school football club at secondary school.

Page 30: Sportsister September/October

Free! Smartwool socks worth £10.95 when you subscribe to Sportsister

great pair of Women’s PHD Running Light Micro socks to

technology that’s used in high density impact zones to reduce shock and abrasion. They’re super comfy, a great

subscribeI would like to subscribe to Sportsister magazine

Name....................................................................................................

Address................................................................................................

..............................................................................................................

Postcode.......................................... Tel..............................................

Email:....................................................................................................

UK Subscription: £10.00 - six issues.Free gift only available to UK subscribers while stocks last.

European Subscription: £18.00 - six issues.

Rest of the world Subscription: £25.00 - six issues.

You can also subscribe online at www.sportsister.comPlease make cheques payable to Sportsister Ltd.Post to: Sportsister Ltd, Regency House, 2 Wood Street, Bath, NE Somerset, BA1 2JQ. Tel: 01225 326428

next issue Winter sports special issueIncluding the best snowsports holidays and our

Stay safe and be seen

outside on dark nights and early mornings Christmas gift guide

Sportsister’s 2010 awards

of the year Take to the poolFollow our training plan to make the most of your time in the pool Getting started – marathon runningA beginner’s guide to the sport of marathon running Don’t miss the November/December issue out 2 November

+

Page 31: Sportsister September/October

Win a pair of entries to the sold out Royal Parks Foundation Half Marathon

Now in its third year The Royal Parks Foundation Half

Series, has quickly established itself as one of the most popular half marathons on the British calendar. Demand for public

to deal with the kind of ticket buying rush more commonly

meaning you and a friend can be lining up in London’s Hyde Park on Sunday 10 October 2010. One of the reasons it’s such

and the London Eye along the way.

For more information visit: www.royalparkshalf.com or www.nokiaoutdoorseries.co.uk

www.sportsister.com 31

Competitions

Despite the growing popularity of outdoor sports, the phenomenon of Geocaching remains relatively unknown. But thanks to its ever expanding following this looks set to change.

display. Its easy-to-use interface means you’ll spend more time enjoying the outdoors and less time searching for information, making it perfect for both

*

Photo: Sarah McDowell

beginners and Geocaching pros. Also up for grabs is a pair of Merrell Siren Sport

for any budding Geocacher.

‘It’s Out There’ campaign to encourage people to take to the outdoors using the concept of Geocaching.

So, that’s two opportunities to bag some sporting freebies, what are you waiting for! For more information visit: www.itsoutthere.co.uk

How to enter: Go online to www.sportsister.com, click on the Competitions button in the top-right hand corner of the homepage and follow the instructions. There are new competitions each month - good luck!

* Win Finisterre Merino

If you are looking for stylish, technical outdoor gear that’s kind to the earth then Cornish surf brand Finisterre is a great place to start. Their small, but spot on collections range

away – a Zephyr Merino Vest and matching Zephyr Shorts plus an Eddy Merino Base

here’s why it’s so good. It’s breathable and

Not only that but it also helps you to regulate your body temperature, keeping you cool when you’re warm and warm when you are cool. Making it ideal for loads of different sports.

For more information visit:

*

How to enter:Go online to www.sportsister.com, click on the Competitions button in the top-right hand corner of the homepage and follow the instructions.There are new competitions each month - good luck!

Page 32: Sportsister September/October

32 www.sportsister.com

Train with Jenny Meadows

cut

out

and

kee

p

Becoming a better runner isn’t just about getting more and more miles in your legs. Developing a strong core is an essential part of becoming a

World champion medallist and ASICS ambassador Jenny Meadows, along with

Sportsister so you too can gain core strength.

1) Stabilitymuscles and therefore less risk of injury

2) Balance – athletes are seldom in a static position so to help maintain good

can pick up the pace and the miles

4) Posturebetter technique

What exactly is core strength?Your core section, known as your torso, is made up of more than 30 muscles across your back, stomach and hips. When they contract they stabilise the

8 core stability drillsThese drills should be done barefoot in the sand pit or with your trainers on the

them on grass but the instability of the sand means you work harder. Try and include them as part of your weekly training routine.

In the sand pit1. High knees walking

maintain balance.

2. Lunge walks

your forward knee and back again to facing forward then step through to lead with the other foot. Again focus on strong glutes and core throughout the drill.

3. Hop hop swap and holdStand on one foot, simply hop twice then swap to other foot. Remember to suck in the core muscles and maintain a tall posture. The swap should be powerful and dramatic to help create instability so that you must work on glutes, core and intrinsic muscles in your foot to maintain stability.

4. Sideways hop hop swap and holdThis is the same as number 3 but hop to the side rather than straight ahead to create more instability.

5. Slalom jumpsStanding on the right hand side of the sand pit on your right foot, jump diagonally onto the opposite foot. Create more instability by jumping wider! Try to stay on one foot at all times.

On the track6. Hamstring step and bow

straight and your back neutral. Try to get your back and trail leg horizontal and

7. CaterpillarStanding on two feet, walk your hands out in front of you until they are

they are as close as possible. As you walk forward bend your knee and plant

8. Sideways SpidermanStart in a press up position and walk hands forward away from your shoulders.

then as you bring them together split legs and repeat so that you crab along maintaining a strong tall horizontal posture.

1. High knees walking

2. Lunge walks

8. Sideways spiderman

Page 33: Sportsister September/October

The London Triathlon is the world’s largest tri with over 13,000entrants annually, and this year Sportsister’s Louise Hudson wasamong them. Here she gives her verdict on the event.

charity each year.

only do one of the three disciplines making it a great option for triathlon

Somehow I ended up doing the swim; the leg that the majority of people dread the most. But after training sessions in my local Lido, the Serpentine

compared to some. But I was pleased it wasn’t any bigger as it still felt quite crowded, particularly at the start. But one lap and thirty minutes later

it! Now all I had to do was get my wetsuit off and run to the transition area where my team mate Julian was waiting for me.

tight bends, roundabouts and hills to keep things interesting, he was back

The run was 10 km and looking at the course outline prior to the race, our

picked the correct discipline. But as it turned out she had to do four laps which seemed endless to her once she was out running.

Luckily the crowd support on the day was brilliant with loads of folk

Put to the test:Would I do it again?

Good points• Fantastic to be a part of the largest triathlon in the world• With no queues to register and plenty of marshals on hand it was a well

• A great atmosphere with the world’s best triathletes rubbing shoulders with complete beginners

Bad points

amount of people trying to do this made it near impossible

Want to give it a try?

www.thelondontriathlon.co.uk for more information.

Challenger World London Triathlon, August 7-8 2010

The Docklands Swim Louise, Isobel and Julian

Page 34: Sportsister September/October

September 4-5 2010Every Woman’s Duathlon

More info:

September 16-19 2010Ambleside Outdoor Festival.

water swim and bushcraft foraging walks, including one for ladies only.

with talks from guest speakers such as mountaineers Sir Chris Bonington and Doug Scott.More info:

September 26 2010British Gas Great Salford Swim 2010. The one mile outdoor swim

Manchester, and is a brilliant challenge for swimmers of all abilities.More info: www.greatswim.org

September 26–October 31 2010Cancer Research UK’s Run10k Series.taking place across Scotland, England and Wales throughout September and October from Hopetoun House near Edinburgh to Brighton sea front.

accepting the challenge to Run 10k and raise money to help beat cancer.More info: www.run10k.org

October 3 2010 Pink Aerobics

Aerobics, a Pink Aerobics T-shirt and a goody bag on the day.More info: www.pinkaerobics.com

October 10 2010Salomon Turbo-X. If you’re a thrill seeker who’s up for a challenge, why

encompasses 10 miles of tough multi-terrain including bogs, hilly climbs

toughest part of the course.More info: www.salomontrails.com

May 28–29 2011Ottawa Marathon. The National Capital Marathon is one of Canada’s

years, now attracting thousands of participants. The Ottawa Marathon

More info: www.ncm.ca

September 2–5 2010Sainsbury’s UK School Games 2010

age. Each of the ten sports are combined into a four-day programme of

Olympic Games.More info: www.ukschoolgames.com

September 5 2010Women’s Rugby World Cup 2010 Final. Two teams will battle it out

More info: www.rwcwomens.com

September 15-20 2010British Grand Prix Squash Championship. Manchester will hold the

More info: www.isportgroup.com/ticketing

September 18-19 2010Archery World Cup Final. The Archery World Cup currently consists

culminating in a grand World Cup Final in Edinburgh where only the top

More info: www.gnas.org

October 3-14 2010Commonwealth Games 2010. The nineteenth Commonwealth Games are to be held in Delhi, India where elite athletes from the Commonwealth nations will compete for medals. The athletes will be competing in a

More info: www.cwgdelhi2010.org

October 17–24 20102010 Artistic Gymnastics World Championships. The 2010 Artistic Gymnastics World Championships for both men and women will take place this October in the Netherlands. Preceding the competitions is four days of training which will be partly accessible for the general public. On

the mood for some top gymnastic talent.More info: www.gymnastics2010.com/en/

what’s on?

34 www.sportsister.com

events to watch: events to do:

For lots more ideas of events to enter and all the events to watch all year round log on to www.sportsister.com

Page 35: Sportsister September/October
Page 36: Sportsister September/October