Go back to the basics with Nike Running by running supernatural at the Bear Butte Running Camp, featuring Nike Free 5.0. This is one of the funniest videos I have ever seen in a long time.

In terms of the Nike+ Challenge, the men did outwit, outlast and outplay the women. This is not the end. The challenge might have ended but the rivalry is still alive and kicking. Go to Nike+ to see the final standings.

Running seems to be something so easy, something that we all did at some point in our lives, and something rather natural to us. I have since learnt that there is much more to this sport than just…. ummm…. well running.

I have been involved with various sporting disciplines in my life, ranging from swimming, kickboxing, yoga, badminton etc but nothing prepared me for the questions I had when it came to running. There I was standing in front of an array of different running shoes and they all looked equally as impressive as the other. What do I do and which one do I choose?

Luckily I had Hans Koeleman (a long-distance runner from the Netherlands, former Olympian in the 3000m steeplechase and 4 times comrades runner) helping me along and teaching me the tricks of the trade.

Coming to my rescue Hans pointed out that there is a different shoe depending on the way you run, the way you land on your feet, if you have weak ankles or knees, how fast you want to run, what distance you are planning to run, etc… All of these variables were a pretty daunting fact for a newbie like me, but luckily I was reassured that a running specialty store would have experts who could help me along.

A shoe is more important than just merely looking good; it is part and parcel of ensuring you have a great workout too. So, it seems that this might be one of the most important choices I am faced with to date.

The advice given to me from Hans was crucial in insuring I get the perfect shoe for me. He told me in no uncertain terms that they need to be comfy, there should at least be one pinky space between my toes and the front of the shoe, and that my foot needs to feel stable in the shoe. He reminded me that running is a prolonged monotonous movement that puts considerable pressure on your body, and the shoe is a barrier between yourself and the road.

So there I was with my little check list, and an awesome store attendant trying on endless amounts of shoes and sizes. And then there they were, the pair destined for me, a beautiful, light and comfy pair of Nike Zoom Victory. I was in heaven.

Minutes later I was walking out of the store with my new pair of running shoes and the Nike+ kit in my hand, feeling like nothing can get me down. At home I looked at my to do list; it seems that the two most important tasks for today have been completed (shu):
Shoes – tick
Nike+ kit – tick

Now the fun begins, setting everything up…

Cardio circuit on Monday, Step on  Wednesday, functional training on Friday, and a game of one on one at the courts with your best friend on Saturday…and the Zoom Trainer Essential is with you every step of the way … now that’s versatility.  The traction grip pattern is ideal for multi-directional activities like weights or dynamic circuit training.  Flex grooves on the forefoot allow the toe to bend and flex – ideal for routines that have you up on the balls of your feet, or when warming up on the treadmill. 

The design aesthetic can be mistaken for pure fashion, but Essential serves a vital purpose: the midfoot bands integrate with the lacing system for improved secure fit and lock down of the arch area, while the internal forefoot strap are designed for support during multi-directional movements like cardio classes.  With a non-marking sole it’s great for gyms or classes on wooden floors. Now available in multiple colours to suit your versatile style.