The 10k Clapham Common Race Series kicked off in March with the first of five events due held throughout 2012. Here we give you some basic hints and tips on how best to prepare for a race if you’re a beginner, and the low down on some of the gyms in Clapham where you can do it.
Each of the five events consists of a 2k Kids Chase, a 5k run, 10k run and a 15k run, with tracks through Clapham Common. The races cater for novice runners to the more serious athletes. If you’re a beginner, head to a local gym to increase your general fitness levels first. Group exercise classes are a great way of getting started. You can chose something fun that will be appealing to you, as well as work out with a qualified instructor. Many types of class will combine aerobic work with muscle strengthening; an ideal way to cover everything. If you prefer an individual workout, swimming is a great all-rounder form of exercise. Or you could mix up some cycling, rowing and climbing on the gym equipment, followed by a bit of muscle strengthening on the resistance machines. It would be most beneficial to strengthen your legs before a race, so ask one of the gym staff which machines they would recommend you give a go.
In central Clapham you’ll find Soho Gyms, Fitness First, and Virgin Active, all offering a range of health and fitness facilities. However, these all require signing up to a contract with a monthly fee; not ideal if you’re just looking to improve fitness in advance of the event. Many gyms now offer pay per session entry fees, so you can improve your fitness for the Clapham Common Race Series without a monthly commitment. Within Clapham and the surrounding area there are some great gyms doing just this. For example, Energie Fitness Club. Known for its warm welcome and friendly environment it’s great if you’re a gym novice. There’s also a great range of group exercise classes throughout the week. Another example is the Blue Harbour Spa; an upmarket health centre. As well as all the usual gym equipment and machines, you can splash around in the luxurious pool and fountains, and enjoy first class spa facilities.
And finally, to help you on your way, make sure you get plenty of sleep the night before, wear a good pair of running shoes, and when you run take longer steady strides without too much bounce. Hit the gyms in Clapham, follow our simple tips and the race will be a breeze!
If you would like to try out the gyms in Clapham without committing to a monthly membership go to payasugym.com to check out further details of the ones mentioned above, and more.