Are you training for a marathon this year?
As the marathon season will soon be upon us, runners are reaching the most important and enduring part of their training schedule which can put a lot of strain on the body and health.
Here are ‘5 of the best’ products which will help you maximise their training schedule with as little disruption as possible
1. Acupuncture
Paul Blacker is a registered member of the British Acupuncture Council practising in Kent:
“Many people use traditional acupuncture to keep them at peak performance and help prevent injuries. When someone does injure themselves ice can help inflammation but massage may prove difficult. This is where acupuncture has its strength, it can be administered even with acute injuries; it helps to reduce the inflammatory process, promote circulation in the area, reduce pain and increases the healing process of the body thereby speeding them back to health and fitness. It has also been proven safe, effective and cheap to administer in the trained hands of a registered member of the British Acupuncture Council, the UK’s largest professional body for traditional acupuncturists. Membership guarantees excellence in training, safe practice and professional conduct.”
To find a practitioner in your area call the British Acupuncture Council on 020 8735 0400 or visit www.acupuncture.org.uk
2. Comvita® Olive Leaf Complex
Marathon training can really take its toll on your immunity but coming down with a cold is the last thing you need ahead of the big day. Olive leaf complex has 30-40 times more Polyphenolics than Extra Virgin Olive Oil. ‘Polyphenolics’ are powerful plant-derived antioxidants and means olive leaf extract has 400% the antioxidant strength of Vitamin C. Olive leaf extract has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, anti-hypertensive, anti-thrombotic and anti-microbial effects. Clinical studies have also demonstrated its efficacy in helping those suffering from high blood pressure, fatigue, low immunity and arthritis. In large Olive groves in Queensland, Australia, fresh olive leaves are processed within minutes of being picked promising a high level of ‘Polyphenolics’ and natural anti-oxidants. Comvita Olive Leaf Complex can be taken straight or diluted with juice. You may notice a difference within just 24 hours and you should feel in better health within 30 days.
Comvita's Olive Leaf Complex is available as a liquid (£22.99 for 500ml) and a one-a-day capsule (90 for £24.99) from larger Boots, Holland & Barrett and all good pharmacies and health food stores. For further information call 0800 652 3468 or visit www.comvita.co.uk.
3. HoMedics iheal
HoMedics iheal £49.99, a clinically proven medical device, actively reduces healing time of soft tissue injuries and speeds up recovery. HoMedics iheal is the world’s smallest, most effective and versatile PEMF (pulsed electro-magnetic field) therapy unit, speeding up the body’s natural healing process of most musculoskeletal and soft tissue disorders by up to 30%1.
The iheal can also be used for swelling, bruising, poor circulation, leg cramps, aching muscles, back and neck pain and restless leg syndrome.
HoMedics iheal is available from Boots stores and independent pharmacies nationwide
Sammy Margo, MSC MCSP HPC MMACP AACP Chartered Physiotherapist says: “Physios have been using this well proven technology for years which helps optimise recovery from soft tissue injuries. Now this effective form of electro-therapy can be delivered in a small, portable, easy to use way that you can put on yourself during the day or even while you sleep.”
4. Care Epsom Salts
Tired after your long run? Epsom Salts (magnesium sulphate) baths can help as Dr Sarah Jarvis explains, “They assist with removing toxins from the muscles, reduce muscle soreness and help your muscles relax due to the effect on the body’s serotonin levels”. Just add some Care Epsom Salts £2.89 for 300g to your bath to help relieve aches and pain. Fifteen minutes is enough, don’t have the water too hot and rinse with a quick shower afterwards.
Suitable for adults and children over 12 years old, Care Epsom Salts are available from Sainsbury’s and Independent pharmacies nationwide.
5. Tiger Balm
Tiger Balm Red uses the relieving properties of Tiger Balm’s natural active ingredients Camphor, Menthol, Cajuput Oil and Clove Oil, in addition to Cinnamon Oil to relieve muscular aches and pains so you no longer need to suffer in silence. A little of the non greasy formula should be gently rubbed into the affected area two or three times a day for best results, or as often as required.
Tiger Balm Red is priced £4.90 for a 19g jar and is available from Boots, Tesco, Waitrose, Sainsbury’s, ASDA, Morrisons, Superdrug, independent pharmacies and health food stores nationwide. For further information call 0844 243 6661. Always read the label.
Tagged in Health Healthy Body fitness tips Marathon Tips