Sportswear firm Reebok is helping people to shape up – whatever their plans for the summer

ANYONE seeking to look scorching this summer should stop by Reebok’s Fithub in Debenhams, Eldon Square, tomorrow, where top celebrity fitness trainer Sarah Maxwell, right, will be offering free fitness consultations and advice. With a complimentary massage and the opportunity to win trainers, the Reebok FitHub launch event in Debenhams, St Andrews Way, in Eldon Square, Newcastle, should be marked top of Sunday’s shopping list.

Sarah will be available from 11am to 5pm at the Reebok’s FitBar, on Debenhams ground floor.

Shoppers can sign up to the Reebok Fit Club to receive ten per cent off Reebok clothing on the day. The FitHub offers Reebok’s new FW14 collection, quality fitness apparel for both the experienced and novice fitness enthusiast.

“I understand what it’s like to have a demanding job, family and lifestyle and will be offering up top tips on how you can fit exercise in around your daily routine,” says Sarah, who trains celebrities including Andrea McLean from Loose Women and Anton Du Beke from Strictly Come Dancing. “Reebok’s vision is to offer people a free and accessible route to fitness and help them achieve fitness goals, not only for this summer but long term.”

Reebok is rolling out FitHub stores across the UK. Here are Sarah’s tips on how Northern Echo readers who are participating for the 2014 Bupa Great North Run on September 7 can achieve success on the day:

Stay hydrated

Drink plenty of fluids. Avoid alcohol because it has a dehydrating effect. Alcohol also interferes with your sleep. It’s never a good idea to run with a hangover!

Just before race day

Don’t overdo it. Stay off your feet, rest and relax. Go for a short run, if you really need it, but take it easy, this isn’t a training run.

Trim your toenails regularly

Check your toenails and clip any that are too long. Keeping your toenails neat and short will prevent them from hitting the front of your shoes, which can lead to bruised and painful toes.

Training shoes

Buy two pairs of shoes just in case you lose or damage a pair. Don’t wear new shoes on race day.

Charity pressure

Running for a charity can drive you on, but don’t ignore injuries because you feel you will be letting the charity down if you stop training for a while.

Getting round

If this is your first half-marathon, aim to get around and don’t aim for a specific time. Too much pressure.

Last week before the half-marathon

All of your hard work should be done. Don’t try to make up for missed training sessions in the last two weeks. It’s time to calm it all down so you’re in peak condition on the day

Petroleum jelly is your best friend

Using petroleum jelly was the best marathon advice I have ever had. Smear it on all of the bits that rub together to prevent soreness.

Display your name

Make sure the crowd can read your name either on your T-shirt, hat, shorts. This really helps when you are struggling and the crowd calls your name

Rest

Rest days are as important as training days. Don’t plan anything other than a quiet night in the evening before.