On my seemingly endless quest for a bag of specific hand luggage size I decided to go for a punt in here, just in case the perfect bag awaited me inside. One of the less pleasing aspects of my brief visit was the distinctly sweaty odour, which greeted my unassuming nostrils swiftly as I swung open the front door. I was a tad put off, and nearly walked back out again, only to change my mind and see if I could find said bag. After all, it is a running shop so what could I expect? Sadly, there was no joy there, but a very friendly member of staff greeted me to offer his help.
All I could see was a number of rucksacks and trainers, and any other essential running gear (you know, like ergonomic water bottles and such), so I thanked him and departed. On my way out I noticed that another energetic member of staff was giving a customer a very practical demonstration of one of their running machines, and talking her through the various benefits of the equipment. In spite of the pep behind the pitch, which seemed informative as much as it was persuasive, I felt certain that I wouldn't be buying a running machine any time soon. Swimming at my own casual pace is more my bag, although the privacy of getting all huffy and red-faced in my own home is tempting!
What ever your take on running though, this place appears to have got it covered for anything you might need. The more cynical person might say that running is one of the few bastions of free exercise left, and so there shouldn't be a need to pay to do it. The more sensible person might argue that it's only sensible to stock up on decent trainers, supportive clothing and some handy advice. It's up to you, really, but should I consider getting my heart rate going I know where I need to go if I want a helping hand! read more