Name: Mark Cooper

Hometown: Edinburgh

Sports: Running, rowing, anything outdoors really.

Achievements:

To me, my biggest achievement has to be completing my first ever 10k race back in 2007, I had just given up a 20 a day smoking habit nad this really proved to me that I could achieve great things with a strong mind. Despite this I am probably best known for other things. Such as, running 129.2 miles in 24 hours on a treadmill in July 2011 and running 50 marathons in 56 days from Amsterdam to Barcelona.

Cycling Lands End to John O Groats in 2009 - 11 days 1,000 miles. (However I intend to run it over a period of around 8 days for a new world record) Setting a course record for running Hadrian's Wall - July 2010 100 miles in 16 hours 59 minutes. 5th in the Edinburgh Marathon Festival 5k (May 2011) 3rd Jog Scotland 5k run (June 2010) 6th in the Glasgow to Edinburgh Double Marathon (April 2011)

I also took part in a team event this year called the Trip to Remember where we cycled from Dublin to Arklow, rowed the Irish sea, which took 19 hours and then hiked 20 miles to the top of Snowdon all within 33 hours, non-stop.

Tips for the top:

If you want to run then you have to really learn to love it, it has to become part of your life. Otherwise it will be a real struggle and you will probably end up giving in. Remember to keep sight of why you started and enjoy if for what it is – being outdoors and going to new places. It is really important not too concerned with what other people are doing in a race, just remain focussed on your own training. Also take time to run without your watch, without a goal, just run for the love of it (not that easy in the beginning when you feel like your hearts is going to burst).

Where it hurts:

Shin splints and knees strains are pretty common for the runner, knee injuries and metatarsal tares and feet problems. The key is to build up your training slowly, don’t push yourself too fast. If I had a really serious injury I don’t know what I would do if I couldn’t run. Really thinking about your posture and getting the right footwear can help to prevent the majority of injuries. I never followed any of the rules to running when I started, I went from running 30 miles a week to over 100 the week after, silly looking back but I survived and fortunately I have never had an injury that has stopped me from training.

Greatest thing about the great outdoors:

There are two main things that I love about running. The first is meeting new people at races and the opportunities to talk with people that I wouldn’t meet any other way. The second is that you miss so much if you’re in a car or even on a bike. When you’re running you get to see things differently, from a different angle. You can go into the woods or down a track and then your back to basics. It’s me, my running shoes and the trail – nothing else.

Who are your sporting heroes:

Sporting hero, I would have to say Kelly Holmes, she is a tough and amazing woman. Watching her win double gold was a moment I still remember and for a young person like I was then to see that is very inspiring. Mo Farah is also up there and is definitely going for Gold in 2012. Again we can only hope that people like Mo can inspire a young generation to get active and perhaps create the future Olympians but more than that just get the youth more into sport in general.

Outside of sport it would have to be my Dad – A lot of questions were asked of him when my Mother passed away and he answered every single one of them perfectly, raising me and my Brother to be polite, caring and ambitious.

How I use Natural Heroes:

I have used the ginger rub for recovery after an run on the West Highland Way and found it to be soothing with a nice warming sensation. Would recommend it over products like deep heat as these only irritate the skin to produce heat.

Website: http://www.runwithmark.com
Twitter: @runwithmark

Name: Liz King

Hometown: Woodchurch, Kent.

Sports: Triathlons with a huge slant towards cycling

Achievements:

Competed in over 30 marathons (lost count after 30!) Women’s Cycling BAR National Champion (as team member) 2010 women’s number 1 cyclist in Kent Average around 20mph in time trials. Tenth in the country for Triathlon age group 2010 13th in the country for ½ ironm

Tips for the top:

Join a club and train with likeminded positive people, swim with swimmers, run with runners and cycle with cyclists. If you’re strong in one of the disciplines then train harder in the others until they are up to speed with your strongest discipline.

Greatest thing about the great outdoors:

Just being out there really, the fresh air and vibrancy of the outdoors. The energy that you get from being out and about and the fact that you can discover new tracks to run or go to new places on your bike every day. And these places are constantly changing and you have new things to see (beats the same old gym walls hands down!)

Who are your sporting heroes:

Chrissie Wellington – she is phenomenal. She only started competing in triathlons a few years ago and is now the world champion. She has been the world champion for three years in a row and broke her own world record last week. She is so down to earth and will give advice if you ask her. On top of that she always gives a percentage of her winnings to charity. She is a total inspiration to the Triathlon community.

How I use Natural Heroes:

I use Natural Hero Hot Ginger Muscle Rub after a long training session, usually after a 60 mile training ride. I jump in the shower and then use the Ginger Muscle Rub to add extra warmth to my muscles and aid my recovery massage. The rub really does go into the skin well and smells great.

In the winter months, I use the Cool Peppermint Spritz as the perfect way to help wake up my muscles before I run. After the initial cooling blast, my legs have that tingly feeling which keeps the winter wind a bay.

Website: http://www.trispiritevents.com
Twitter: @LizTriSpirit

Name: Zoe Williams

Hometown: London (Born and raised in Burnley)

Sports: Rugby, Netball, Dance

Achievements:

Competing in National Premiership Rugby Performing as Sky TV Gladiator Amazon

Tips for the top:

• Belief in yourself
• Perseverance
• Fitness

Where it hurts:

Anywhere and everywhere and that relates to both Rugby and Gladiators.

Greatest thing about the great outdoors:

Fresh clean air, the elements (wind and rain feel great when you’re running) and the lack of sweaty, smelly gym equipment.

Who are your sporting heroes:

I am always inspired by people who overcome great tragedy and go on to succeed great things.

How I use Natural Heroes:

Hot Ginger Muscle Rub is my favourite sports product for when muscles need that extra help to warm up and be flexible, especially before a training session, or to alleviate stiffness the day after.

Website: http://www.gladiator-amazon.co.uk
Twitter: @zoewilliams1

Name: Hugo Tagholm

Hometown: I currently live in Truro, Cornwall

Sports: Surfing

Achievements:

Running Surfers Against Sewage, the leading Environmental campaign group representing the UK surfing community. Check out what we do at www.sas.org.uk , join up and support our on-going campaigns protecting waves, oceans and beaches around the UK

Tips for the top:

Focus, dedication and passion

Where it hurts:

The brain and the eyes…. Most of my job is at a desk in front of a computer! I do get out in the field as much as possible too, working with our national network of Regional Reps, rolling out campaign actions with the campaigns team and organising community events such as beach cleans. It’s a busy job, as we’re a national organisation based in Cornwall, so travelling to anywhere takes a fair time. Surfing-wise, it’s great to feel the burn across the shoulders after a good session.

Greatest thing about the great outdoors:

Our beautiful oceans and coastlines. Especially on a still, sunny, blue, warm day with 3-4ft of perfection rolling in. The marine environment is under increasing pressure and we should all take action to help protect it. Come on board with SAS campaigns and get involved.

Who are your sporting heroes:

My brothers, Tom and Theo.

Website: http://www.sas.org.uk
Twitter: @sascampaigns
Facebook: http://www.facebbook.com/surfersagainstsewage

Name: Scott Wilson

Hometown: Lydd, Kent

Sports: Bike Trials

Achievements:

• 6 x British Champion
• World Champion 2000
• British Individual Elite Champion
• European No2
• European No3
• Essex Club Champion
• Hampshire Club Champi
on

Tips for the top:

Don’t give up. Be very, very patient. Stay relaxed, and always remember to have fun when you’re riding.

Where it hurts:

My lower back is where I get the most pain and that’s been from day one. I get a lot of muscle cramp especially in my calves. I ache all over really! A really common injury in my sport is twisting or hurting your knees, and there’s a lot of pressure put on your wrists whilst riding. People sprain their wrists a lot if they fall and put their arms out to try to save themselves. We’re lucky though because as we’re quite a slow and precise sport there aren’t many breaks!

Greatest thing about the great outdoors:

There’s nothing better than knowing you’ll be outside all day doing something that’s healthy and active. I also get to meet great people and get sweaty and muddy – can’t complain really!

Who are your sporting heroes:

Definitely Travis Pestrana. I have a lot of respect for him as he started out in motocross and won everything there was to win, then he went into freestyle motocross and won everything in that, and then he went into rallying and did the same thing with that! He just kept on going and achieving and I have a lot of respect for anyone that is so motivated in their sport. On top of that in every picture and interview he is always smiling and has a great attitude – he is the man. I’d love to meet him, but if I did I don’t think I’d be able to do anything other than stare!

How I use Natural Heroes:

When I’m at competitions with an early start I use the Hot Ginger Muscle Rub everywhere to get my muscles going. If I have been riding for a long time I put it all over my back and do some stretches and it really helps. I use the Spritz just before I start a comp to wake up my muscles too.

Website: http://www.scott-wilson.co.uk
Twitter: @Scott54Wilson
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/Scott54Wilson

Name: Louise Hudson

Hometown: London

Sports: As Founder & Editor of Sportsister I do a broad range of sports as I enjoy sport not at an elite level but as a regular woman who wants to stay fit. Sports I enjoy include: running (half marathons), triathlon and snowboarding.

Achievements:

I am most proud of what I have been most daunted by and have done anyway.

 I took part in the London Triathlon as part of a team which Olympic Distance. I had to swim 1.5km in the Thames by the Docklands and it was the first time I had ever taken part in anything like that, I was astounded by how people swam on top of you and did everything they could to get the best time.

 After the London Tri I competed  a couple of times in July and August 2010 in sprint triathlons which I really enjoyed and am proud I did on my own. I was inspired by the environment as both times they were in beautiful settings.

Tips for the top:

Find something you love doing - when there are times when you don’t feel like training, you will still have the motivation deep down.

Train with a friend – if you don’t feel like training they might and they could also goad you and get your competitive juices flowing if they are doing better than you!

Where it hurts:

Up until this year I have been very lucky. I broke my wrist for the first time in the first half an hour on the slopes snowboarding but seeing as I have been snowboarding since I was 10 – I can’t be too annoyed.

Greatest thing about the great outdoors:

As I live in the City in London in a small flat I find getting outside a necessity to clear my mind and get away from my desk. I run regularly along a canal and even though it isn’t the most beautiful vista in the world it gives me a sense of escape and freedom. When I am the wilds or by the ocean I feel inspired and liberated.

How I use Natural Heroes:

I use the Spritz after running or a training session as it makes me feel zingy and energises my tired muscles.

Website: www.sportsister
Twitter: @sportsister

Name: Christine Bertram

Hometown: Voelklingen/ Germany, but now lives in Brighton

Sports: Triathlon with a big soft spot for athletics

Achievements:

I used to be in international level runner, represented Germany as a Junior and raced at Boston University on a scholarship. Triathlon is fairly new to me and in the short year I’ve been in it I’ve come 6^th at the National Sprint Triathlon Championships where I qualified for the 2011 ITU World Championships in Beijing/ China and the 2012 ETU European Championships in Eilat/ Israel. In my first ever Olympic Distance triathlon I finished 2^nd female over all. By far my greatest achievement though is swimming across San Francisco Bay from Alcatraz (I am a rubbish swimmer) as part of the Escape from Alcatraz Triathlon, where I finished 7^th in my age group and 270^th out of 1700 finishers.

Christine is European Sprint Triathlon Champion 2012 for the AG 35-39.

Christine came 2nd in the AG 35-39 Sprint Triathlon at Horst ETU (European Triathlon Union) Powerman Sprint Dualthon Championships (with only a minute difference from the winner!) 1hour: 07mins: 13secs *

Tips for the top:

Being realistic, consistent and staying healthy are key. Construct a training schedule that is realistic. Don’t say yes, I can train 15 hours per week, but realistically you can only commit to 8 because, let’s face it, you’ve still got a life and a job and a family. Stick to your training schedule and don’t wimp out because you “don’t feel the love today”. A good way to do that is finding people to train with who will motivate and support you. Most importantly, to implement all that, you need to stay healthy and injury free. Look after yourself, drink enough water, eat fruit and vegetables, and treat yourself to a massage occasionally.

Where it hurts:

Uhm… the better question would be where it does not hurt, that would be easier to pinpoint. After a good post-season break, I’ve upped my training again and am running more on roads to prepare for duathlon. My glutes and calves didn’t take to that very well. Lots of tightness, which in the end impacted on my running and cycling. Add to that that I am a rubbish swimmer and the only way to improve is “swim lots”; my upper back and shoulders are having a fun time. I think the only place that doesn’t hurt is probably my face, it’s well trained from chatting and smiling.

Greatest thing about the great outdoors:

Being out there for me is sightseeing. I don’t own a car, so whenever I go somewhere on the bike or on a run I discover something new. It is also a chance to get up-close and personal with some of the animals out there you would normally not see. The greatest thing are the changing colours though, when the sun dances golden through the leaves or the autumn cold turns the forest into a colourful medley of red, yellow and brown.

Who are your sporting heroes:

This is difficult. There are so many great sports personalities out there who have all achieved great things. But I think the most inspirational people are children. The outright enthusiasm and fearlessness they display when they are in a race, the pure enjoyment that radiates from their faces, is something that you rarely see in adults. We have lost this somewhere along the way, which is sad. I try to retain some of that enthusiasm and joy.

How I use Natural Heroes:

I use the Ginger Rub before and after training, especially bike rides. Before, I rub a small amount on my glutes to losen them up and try to keep them happy with the warmth. Afterwards, I give my glutes a massage with a generous amount of Ginger Rub. It works a treat after a hot bath and puts my glutes on fire, in a good way. My muscles loosen up and there is just a lot less agony having to move. The Peppermint Spritz works a treat on my calves. The coolness refreshes the legs and the peppermint oil the soul. 

For Christine's top 10 tips to winning a Triathlon after injury check out her blog post.

* The photo is of Christine with her medal at the Horst Powerman European Championships in April 2013.

(5k run, 20k bike, 2.5k run)

Website: http://cbertramtriathlon.wordpress.com/
Twitter: @XfmGirl

Name: Huw James

Hometown: Blackwood, Caerphilly, Wales

Sports: Mountaineering, Climbing inc. Ice Climbing, Surfing, Snowboarding

Achievements:

My greatest achievement to date, even though it’s still to come this April, is a trip that I am planning – The Venus Transit Expedition. It’s designed to get everyone thinking differently about science, engineering and the outdoors. Its going to look into the issues surrounding ‘Nature deficit disorder’ and get people learning as they go. It will emulate the 1769 journey taken by Captain Cook and we will travel across the world to record the Venus Transit on June5/6th.

In terms of sport I’m climbing pretty well at the moment and pretty proud of when I cycled the length of Wales in 22 hours non- stop (192 miles). It was hard not having any sleep!

Science Junkie is a great achievement too – this explores the science behind extreme sports and I go into schools and other venues demonstrating how things work to increase children’s scientific literacy and encourage kids to get out and about rather than sit in front of the TV.

Setting up a brand and organisation that promotes the outdoors and science is something I’m really proud of too. 

Tips for the top:

2 things you really gotta have is a passion for what you do, and the drive to create opportunities for yourself, no one’s going to hand anything to you on a plate!

Where it hurts:

Everywhere! I’ve had a broken nose, arms, feet, legs, head and fingers from all the years of abuse I’ve given my body. I’ve always had back problems from a very young age but have never really thought much of it. My most recent bout saw me in a wheelchair and on crutches. It’s now thought to be linked to Spina Bifida on my Mam’s side, but I definitely don’t let it get in the way!

I have found though that I tend to get more injuries from the ‘mainstream’ sports as opposed to the more extreme ones. I think it’s when you know it’s a dangerous sport you take your time rather than diving straight in.  

Greatest thing about the great outdoors:

Even though we are constantly trying to create media devices that are so real that they immerse us in the game we are playing or film we are watching,  if you just stepped outdoors and stand at the top of a mountain you are instantly immersed in nature. It’s there already and has been for a long time, constantly changing and evolving. Dinosaurs have walked where you walk, meteors have hit the mountains that you have climbed and you are there for 70 years or so surrounded by 4.6 billion years of history. 

Who are your sporting heroes:

I admire the old world adventurers that seek new horizons, are passionate about what they do and are doing it for the whole of mankind. The likes of Captain Cook, Charles Darwin and Robert Falcon Scott.

Website: www.huwjames.com
Twitter: @huwmjames
Facebook: www.facebook.com/huwjamestotheblue

Name: Kenny Macpherson

Hometown: Mallaig

Sports: Running

Achievements:

I have been running seriously for 2 years. Prior to this I played football in the late 90's for Cullercoats in the Northern Alliance.

This year I have attained PB's in all distances that I aimed for and to cap a great year I have been called up to Scotland Veterans Team for International versus Home Nations

Tips for the top:

Train intelligently, respect your competitors, get regular sports massage and physio.

Where it hurts:

At the end of a race when your legs and lungs are screaming out to slow down or stop your competitive edge kicks in, you focus for the line and you will your body to the line.

I am now 44 years of age and feel with intelligent running and good aftercare I can improve year on year. Aftercare includes regular physiotherapy with sports massage and use of health drinks.

Greatest thing about the great outdoors:

Freedom to explore the Countryside around you at a decent tempo taking in the sights, smells and atmospherics. 

Who are your sporting heroes:

Archie Gemmell Scottish Football Internationalist

How I use Natural Heroes:

I recently sampled Natural Hero's Hot Ginger Muscle Rub and found this had immediate recuperative qualities. I am well aware of root ginger's ability  to counteract colds and viruses and regularly utilise root ginger in cooking.

As a club we were kindly given a free sample of ginger natural hero and we had to stop one of our newer runners trying to drink it! The same guy the following week he rubbed a concentrated cherry juice drink sample on his thighs.

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/groups/tynebridgeharriers/

Name: Edward Chapman

Hometown: A small hamlet near Bude, Cornwall

Sports: Running and a little bit of triathlon.

Achievements:

Giving up smoking and getting fit and then staying fit. Finishing my first Comrades Marathon, a 56 mile race in South Africa, was a massive achievement in my running career as was completing the Marathon des Sables. I have gone on to complete another desert multi-day event 5 times; the Kalahari Augrabies Extreme Marathon.

Although I have taken part in events from the arctic to the desert and from 5km to 250km I am probably at my happiest when running by myself on the South West Coastal Path.

Tips for the top:

Whatever you are trying to achieve you will only perform at your best if you have great determination and patience. One without the other just will not do.

Where it hurts:

There is nowhere specific that hurts, I seldom get injured. In multi-day events, especially in the heat there is a deep down tiredness that can drag you down. I think what hurts the most is knowing that you should have gone out for a training run, but didn’t.

Greatest thing about the great outdoors:

I love the outdoors because it is free and constantly changing. When I am not travelling I run in a beautiful valley that is only a few minutes away from my house. Whenever I go there it is as if it was my first time because it is always different; the light changes, the sounds change, I’ll see something different, either it has changed or it has always been there, but I have never seen it, or I am viewing it in a different mood. I love that valley, but I also enjoy exploring new places.

Who are your sporting heroes:

I have many, but two in particular stand out. Emil Zatopek and Kelly Holmes.

Emil Zatopek won the 5,000 metres, the 10,000 metres and the marathon races at the 1952 Olympic Games in Helsinki. He dominated long distance running from 1948 until 1954 when he won a remarkable 38 consecutive 10,000 metre races. He did this through sheer hard work, determination and guts. From all that I have read he was also a very nice person.

I watched in awe when Kelly Holmes won the 800 metres and 1500 metres Olympic gold medals. I had followed Kelly’s career ever since I saw her run in the Hastings 10k when I was one of the marshals. Her two medal races were perfect examples of how to win a race, had they been 10 metres longer or shorter she would have lost, but each time ran a perfect race.

How I use Natural Heroes:

I seldom have specific aches and pains from running but I do suffer from a sore lower back from driving a lot and tense shoulders from working on my computer. I use the Hot Ginger Muscle Rub to soothe my lower back and I use Cool Peppermint Muscle Spritz to ease my shoulders. I love the fact that they are not greasy and that the fragrance is pleasant and not overpowering. 

Website: http://www.edandphil.co.uk
Twitter: @activeandfit2
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/edwardflik

Name: Dave Smith

Hometown: Aviemore, currently lives in Caversham.

Sports: Rowing, Bob Sleigh, Karate, Athletics.

Achievements:

2011 World Champion – Rowing

2009 World Champion – Rowing

I would say though that my greatest achievement is overcoming surgery on my spinal tumour and competing 15 months after and becoming the world champion again. 

Tips for the top:

Train smart, recover smarter and have a balance in your life. It’s really difficult getting your work-life balance right when competing in an elite sport. 

Where it hurts:

Everything hurts in rowing, there literally isn’t one part that doesn’t hurt as your using every muscle. I think that the mind is the thing that can suffer the most though, you need to keep your mind strong and that helps. Your mind is the thing that can override your body giving up when its in pain. 

Greatest thing about the great outdoors:

I like the freedom and the silence, and like to spend a lot of time up in the mountains. The feeling you get there can’t really be described. 7.30am in the Alps is amazing, and if you’re into an outdoor sport you will know what I mean.  People who love the outdoors have this common bond that people in cities don’t and won’t know. Hearing nothing bar your own breathing is an amazing experience and people who don’t experience this are missing out on an opportunity the world offers. 

Who are your sporting heroes:

Herman Maier – because of his focus and his drive, his ability to perform at the top and his whole approach to sport/life.

Hershel Walker – Fastest ever NFL (National Football League) player, Olympic Bob Sleigh athlete, almost made the Olympic Athletics team and at the age of 48 made his UFC debut. He is totally inspiring. He was badly bullied at school and is totally focussed mentally which has made it possible to do what he does. 

How I use Natural Heroes:

I use the spray mostly on my back and legs before training. We were training in Spain and it was pretty cold so I used the rub before we started to help warm my muscles up. It felt like a good preparation ahead of warming up.

I used to use creams all of the time, but in rowing no one seems to use them so got out of the habit. The Bob Sleigh teams all used them though and the Russian Athletes are really into their creams in a way we don’t tend to be in the UK. I don't really understand why!

The mind is always the weakest link so anything that can help you feel better mentally will give you an edge. 

Website: www.davidandrewsmith.net

Name: Dave Cornthwaite

Hometown: I live in London at the moment – and don’t really have a hometown as was never anywhere for more than two years.

Sports: Best way of summing up what I do is with the Expedition1000 project, a series of twenty five journeys of at least 1000 miles in length, each one using a different method of non-motorised transport.

Achievements:

My greatest achievement is definitely making a living from something that is my passion. Six years ago I was a graphic designer and utterly miserable. Doing something that I am passionate about every day beats the heck out of everything else. 

Tips for the top:

First is belief – if you believe you will go as far and as high as you want to you will make it. And if you don’t, you won’t.

Secondly preparation is everything. So many people fail because they don’t prepare properly and I’m not just talking about the big expeditions I do. I really do believe that if you don’t prepare enough for something it’s a sure sign that you don’t actually care enough to actually do what you’re planning.

And thirdly you have to enjoy it, otherwise there’s no point in doing it. What’s the point in holding World Records if you can’t look back on the experience and have a happy memory? If you can’t then it wasn’t worth it, and isn’t worth it. 

Where it hurts:

Ha ha… nowhere has avoided pain but my feet and my back take the worst of it. I wouldn’t say I struggle constantly, but they’ve definitely had their moments. The palms of my hands and fingers take a hammering too from holding paddles. For me gloves more often than not don’t help, and after six months of paddling it takes a month or two for my fingers to straighten out again. The thing is, and not to sound cheesy, you get used to being in constant pain, but it’s my own fault so no complaints!

Greatest thing about the great outdoors:

Being outside and staying in the ‘wild’ puts everything into perspective. As humans we consume and demand all of the time. When we are outdoors it highlights how simple our needs are, and that we don’t need all of this stuff we surround ourselves with back at home, it’s nice to live minimally. Apart from that the outdoors is utterly adorable!

There are few things I need to have with me when I’m in the great outdoors:

My marbles – its essential to keep these!

Contact lenses – I wouldn’t get very far if I can’t see where I’m going

Mac book – my life is run through my macbook, it’s where I write, post videos and let people see what I am up to. I have to have this with me wherever I go. 

Who are your sporting heroes:

I don’t really have any heroes – I’m lucky to be surrounded by friends that are high achievers who I admire. To be honest I think everyone has something within themselves that’s makes us great, and I respect and admire everyone who has achieved something off the back of nothing.

How I use Natural Heroes:

Natural Hero Peppermint spray and Hot Ginger Rub kept my legs in order during a mammoth 1000 mile 4-wheel Bikecar pedal between Memphis and Miami. The Spritz I used to give me a boost particularly when my calves got tight and the Rub I used at the end of each day - it felt as comforting as warm buttered toast (if that doesn't sound too weird!).

See David's short video about his campaign Say Yes More! encouraging people to get out there and have an adventure.

Dave also shares a lot of info on his blog with practical tips on how to make adventures happen - go on, check it out!

We wish Dave well on his Eliptical Bike tour this summer across Europe.

Website: www.davecornthwaite.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/DaveCorn
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/davecornthwaite

Name: Alan Hinkes

Hometown: Northallerton, North Yorkshire

Sports: Mountaineering, rock climbing, ice climbing, fell walking, skiing, caving/potholing, running, biking, canoeing

Achievements:

Only Brit to have climbed the world's highest mountains (all over 8,000 metres – a feat shared with only 12 people alive today) list here

Tips for the top:

• Always save energy, both mental and physical for the descent. Most accidents happen descending.
• Determination and resilience make a difference.
• Coming back from an expedition is a success, the summit is only a bonus.

Where it hurts:

Pain!? No Pain No Gain!

Can overdo it on indoor walls and strain shoulders or elbows 'cranking' steep, strenuous, fingery rock routes.  

Greatest thing about the great outdoors:

Freedom

Fresh air

In winter I enjoy a gnarly challenge in a blizzard. It really feels like you are using your whole body and soul to fight the elements.

Who are your sporting heroes:

My Grandma (sadly now dead, but she lived till 100)

Climber: Joe Brown

Explorer/seafarer/Yorkshireman: James Cook

How I use Natural Heroes:

Hot Ginger Muscle Rub I rub it in to elbows, shoulder, lower back for my muscle ache. 

Muscle Spritz is good on my elbow - it cools then soothes the joint pain.

Website: www.pro-trek.co.uk
Twitter: @alanhinkes

Name: David Deak

Hometown: Here, there, everywhere – Toronto / London / Amsterdam / Copenhagen

Sports: ironman triathlons, mountain biking, running, Bikram yoga

Achievements:

Qualified for the Ironman 70.3 World Championships in my first year of triathlon (2006).

Qualified for the ITU Long Distance Triathlon World Championships (2008).

Averaging 2 to 3 ironman-distance races per year (2010 – present), after donating my right kidney to my father in July 2009. 

Tips for the top:

Never ever stop having fun. Whenever the going gets tough, whatever the endeavour, it helps to think of dictums that inspire. Here are two that left a deep impression on me:

“First with the head, then with the heart” – from the novel ‘The Power of One’ by Bryce Courtenay.

“Stay hungry, stay foolish” – Steve Jobs, from the Commencement Address at Stanford University, 2005.

Where it hurts:

Hurt? What is ‘hurt’? 

Greatest thing about the great outdoors:

Everything about the great outdoors is fantastic. It's about embracing challenges, facing the elements, and enjoying life outside. 

Who are your sporting heroes:

There are many. Here are a few noted (vegetarian / plant-fueled) examples:

Plato (who was not just a philosopher, but a world-class wrestler)

Scott Jurek (the modern world's most successful ultra-distance runner)

Rich Roll (Ultraman triathlete)

Dave Scott (six-time Ironman world champion)

Carl Lewis (among the most successful Olympians in athletics ever)

My cousin Rob, who planted the Ironman seed into my head. 

How I use Natural Heroes:

I use the Spritz as  a linament before training. After training I massage it deep into my leg muscles after a big day of training. It gives a satisfying deep-tissue buzz from the warmth it gives. In fact, with the Muscle Rub, I feel there is less need to see a massage therapist as frequently as I used to (don’t tell my massage therapist)! It really does work wonders. 

Website: http://www.daviddeak.com 

Twitter: @DavidDeak

Name: Emily Sarsfield

Hometown: Durham, UK

Sports: I love all sports but compete internationally in Skicross. I like to snowboard and telemark as it's good for technique development and balance. I also really like netball.

Achievements:

• UK No1 Ski Cross athlete 
• Currently ranked 30th in the world by International Ski Federation
• 7 x British Champion
• 1st in Europa Cup in Val Thorens, 2010
• 14th in World Cup in Grindelwald, 2011

Tips for the top:

• If you are on the sidelines and want to be selected put your energies into getting better at what you do.
• I love the saying: "If you live in the mountains you're lucky enough" - I take this to mean that wherever you are you should not take it fro granted, enjoy your environment and make the most of what it offers
• Make sure you never leave a situation in your control thinking "what if".
• Keep your body strong through cross training
• Enjoy your training and make sure you rest during your recovery - that ache you feel after working your muscles hard (delayed onset muscle soreness) shows your muscles are repairing themselves and ready to come back even stronger after your hardwork.

Where it hurts:

Skicross feels a bit like you have been hit by a bus - the "whiplash" of being hurled 3-5 metres  through the air to land at the bottom of the jumps.

The jumps on the course are up to 30 meters long with more than 40 features in each course so it is a giant obstacle course made of snow and the course is 60 seconds long.

The sport takes it toll on my joints and knees - as your legs are effectively pistons and shock absorbers during the course - especially when you are on a time trial race.

Unlike many Alpine races, Skicross has head to head races where you can "crash" in to one another and certianly feel a lot of tension through your body as you ski down the cousre with 3 other competitors. 

Greatest thing about the great outdoors:

When you are in the mountains, you wake up and the scenery lifts you.

I love the amount of things you can do outdoors, even just going for a walk can be huge fun.

Give me a campfire over high tech gadgetry any day.

Who are your sporting heroes:

I admire all athletes competing internationally as I know the hard work they have put in.

Growing up my Dad never let me or my sister win at Monopoly - that taught me that the only way to win is to be better than your opponent.

My sister is an inspirtaion, she is older than me and always spurred me on (that heady combination of sibling rivalry and support).

How I use Natural Heroes:

I use Natural Hero as "preparational products" to make sure I recover and am ready for what's coming up. The night before an event and after training I massage the rub into my legs particularly my quads.

The Hot Ginger Muscle Rub is really soothing post-workout after I have done a big leg circuit in the gym, the intense heat helps give me "fresh legs" for my next round of training.

I spray the Cool Peppermint Muscle Spritz on my lower back before heading up the slope - the "tingle" it creates reactivates when exercising which is great when being pulled up a long drag lift.

I also use the Spritz when I am on the exercise bike in the gym as it provides a cool blast to give me somthing else to concentrate on rather than my screaming calves and quads.

Natural Hero gives a boost to my training as well as helping ease away the tension from competing.

Website: http://www.emilysarsfield.com/emilyskicross/home.html
Twitter: @EmSkiCross

Name: John Bloomfield

Hometown: Stanhope, County Durham, UK

Sports: Distance Running (Marathon)

Achievements:

• Represented England and Great Britain over the marathon distance between 1985 and 1995.
• Competed for GB in Europa Marathon Cup in 1988 (Liege, Belgium)
• Captained GB in World Marathon Cup in 1995 (Athens, Greece)
• Ran 12 sub- 2hr 20min marathons (4 when over 40yrs old)
• Marathon PB of 2hrs 17mins 42 age 41yrs

Tips for the top:

Train hard… but remember that rest is an integral part of recovery.

Where it hurts:

At the moment……around my right foot/ankle.

Greatest thing about the great outdoors:

The opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors and the freedom to explore the natural environment is available to everyone, but, being fit in the outdoors gives us the means to live the life to which we all aspire.

Who are your sporting heroes:

Emil Zatopek, distance runner and Czech legend.

How I use Natural Heroes:

After a hard session Natural Hero products help to soothe and "soften" tight muscles and I feel they assist in the speedy return to running. I use the sports spray as a linament before heading out on a long run - it reactivates when I need a boost.

Name: Sean Conway

Hometown: London, UK

Sports: Cycling, Swiming, Endurance Adventure

Achievements:

Cycled 16000 miles in 116 days through 25 countries in 6 continents. Climbed Kilimanjaro dressed as a penguin. 

About my swim

On the 27th July 2013 I will attempt to become the first person to swim the entire length of Britain. My 1000-mile route will start in Land’s End and I’ll work my way up the north coast of Devon and into the Bristol Channel. From there I head inland and swim along the waterways all the way up to the Lake District. I then pop out back onto the coast up towards Scotland. Instead of going around the Hebrides I’ll cut into Loch Ness and then out along the east coast and finally up to John O’Groats.

Job Done!

My swim will take 2 months and I will be swimming further than the Channel every single day while battling cold water, extreme hunger, loneliness and potential bacterial infection.

Why?

It was hard to think of something bigger and harder than cycling around the world. I am by no means a good swimmer and thought this challenge would certainly raise the bar for me.

It’s Supported

This is going to be a fully supported swim with people in charge of various roles such as, route, camping, nutrition, social media, press and PR, photography and video.

The Goals

-        To become the first person to swim the length of Britain.

-        To give talks to schools, colleges and companies along the way about pushing yourself and achieving your goals.

-        Raise loads of money for charity.

-        Share my story on a daily basis.

-        Make a documentary about the swim.

Tips for the top:

Where it hurts:

Lower back

Who are your sporting heroes:

Tommy Godwin

Greatest thing about the great outdoors: I love that the outdoors owns you. You are at its mercy and have to change the way you adventure depending on her mood. You can have the best equipment, training, and experience but mother nature always wins. I love that. 

How I use Natural Heroes:

 I suffered a back injury in 2012 and my lower back really hurts after a long day doing any exercise. Hot Ginger helps me with the pain. 

Website: www.SeanConway.com
Twitter: @Conway_Sean

Name: Joey Sharma

Hometown: Aldershot, Hampshire

Sports: Running, Bikram Yoga, Scuba Diving, Skiing

Achievements:

I’ve gone from Under Dog to Ultra Marathon Runner in just over 1 year. I have successfully completed 7 marathons, 6 Ultra Marathons (the longest being 150km over 3 days, 2 x 100km over 2 days) I have climbed the three peaks and walked 100km from London to Brighton. You could say it’s been a busy year and in April 2013 I will be running the Marathon des Sables.

Known simply as the MdS, the race is a gruelling six-day adventure through a formidable landscape in one of the world’s most inhospitable climates - the Sahara desert. The rules require you to be self-sufficient, to carry with you on your back everything except water that you need to survive. You are given a place in a tent to sleep at night, but any other equipment and food must be carried.      

Tips for the top:

Listen to your body, and smile!

Where it hurts:

Soleus muscles and inner ankle

Greatest thing about the great outdoors:

Nature – I love exploring and have lots of gorgeous places to run in Hampshire without having to pound pavements of inner cities, no exhaust fumes – just fresh air, horses, cows and heron to share my runs with. As the seasons change so do the runs visually – I love it!!

Who are your sporting heroes:

Mimi Anderson, Jen Salter & Ranulph Fiennes.

How I use Natural Heroes:

I massage Natural Hero into the area that needs it and then massage deeper with my rolling stick – it’s an easy regime to follow and both products are small enough to travel with me from race to race.

Website: www.joeythelittletrooper.com
Twitter: @joeytltrooper

Name: Phil Smith

Hometown: Northseaton/Ashington

Sports: Ultra running, Endurance events, Triathlon

Achievements:

Represented Age Group Great Britain team at two Triathlon World championships and two European championships. Completed several Ironman Triathlons including finishing 31^st at UK Ironman 2008. Completed several Ultra Runs Including a Bob Graham Round, the full length of Hadrians Wall in under 23hours for charity, and as part of the Ultra Trail Du Mont Blanc the TDS (Sur les Traces des Ducs de Savoie) 120km Mountain Ultra all in one year.              

Tips for the top:

Consistency, endurance takes a long time to build, its not about one session, its about day in, day out training and listening to the body, its not all about watching the numbers, its about learning to train by feel.

Where it hurts:

The legs and back, always the legs!!

Greatest thing about the great outdoors:

Isolation, simplicity, naturalness, how it brings us back. 

Who are your sporting heroes:

Killian Jornet, Graeme Obree, Joss Naylor, true sporting legends not just in sporting achievements but in mind and spirit. 

How I use Natural Heroes:

As a physiotherapist, I use Natural Hero within massage; with my clients at Connect and within my own preparation and recovery. Too many athletes train simply to smash themselves and don’t focus enough on recovery; this is where Natural Hero and massage come in. Its reassuring to know Natural Hero is tested on athletes, not animals. 

To follow Phil's adventures, sign up to his blog here: http://smithsdotri.wordpress.com/

Website: http://www.connectphc.co.uk/
Twitter: @ConnectPHC
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ConnectPHC

Name: Aly Dixon

Hometown: Sunderland

Sports: Athletics - road running - marathon/half marathon/10k

Achievements:

Represented GB at 2 IAAF World Championships (2009 + 2011)

Represented England 

Winner of Brighton Marathon 2011

2nd in Brighton Marathon 2013 

Numerous North and North East titles.

PBs = 10k, 32.53

Half marathon, 71.20

Marathon, 2.34.51 - Now 02:31:10 thanks to 2013 Brighton Marathon

Tips for the top:

Dream big. Train smart, rest hard, win easy. 

You have to train hard to reach the top but don't be afraid to rest, it's training too, you can't expect your body to take a constant bashing from training without allowing it to recover every now and again.

Where it hurts:

 Mile 24 of a marathon!! ;) 

Greatest thing about the great outdoors:

Sense of freedom and the stunning beauty of nature

Who are your sporting heroes:

Paula Radcliffe & anyone who runs a marathon. 

How I use Natural Heroes:

I use hot ginger rub to ease any stiff muscles the day after a hard workout and I enjoy a nice relaxing soak in the hot ginger bath soak after a long run.

Twitter: @alydixon262

Name: Vicki Anstey

Hometown: Born and grew up in North Yorkshire, lived and worked in London for 15 years.

Sports: I love to run, but I can’t live a day without a barre workout. Nothing works your muscles in quite the same way – and it helps me run for longer!

Achievements:

Training with the New York City Ballet in New York in 2010. The most daunting, but inspiring week of my life.

London Marathon

Paris Marathon

Tips for the top:

Trust in your body – it is capable of so much more than you think. Until you’ve really pushed yourself physically, you haven’t truly lived in your skin.

Where it hurts:

Feet, arms and abs. Feet because I’m on them all day, arms and abs because after a really tough barre workout (where you target small AND big muscles groups) you feel the small ones the most. And boy does it feel GREAT!

Greatest thing about the great outdoors:

You have no control over the environment – varied terrain, unpredictable weather, you can’t just push a button for air conditioning or to decrease your incline, you’ve just got to take whatever comes. And the endorphins are always better outdoors!

Who are your sporting heroes:

Carlos D’Acosta

Paula Radcliffe

My husband

How I use Natural Heroes:

I lather the Ginger muscle rub on my hamstrings after a run and wait for the hot tingle. It’s like having my legs hugged and reduces delayed muscle ache better than anything else I’ve tried.

Website: www.barreworks.co.uk
Twitter: @bodyofdancer
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Barreworks/232182576509?fref=ts

Name: Garry Walker

Hometown: South Shields, Tyne and Wear

Sports: Triathlon/Duathlon

Achievements:

November 2009 I stopped a 30per day smoking habit and tipped the scales at over 16 stone.  Over the next three years I completely transformed my life with willpower and determination to be the best I could be.  Everything I did was an achievement considering the life I led but the pinnacle had to be the birth of my baby daughter and true inspiration Freya

- 2012 European Sprint Triathlon Champion

- 2012 North East Duathlon Champion

- 2012 London Olympic Torch Bearer

Tips for the top:

Be consistent with your training.  Focus and stick to the plan, making it habit.  Do all your hard work during your training sessions and on the day, the race and winning becomes easy.  Most of all, have fun.

Where it hurts:

Everywhere! When I put a hard enough shift in I just want to curl up in a corner.  Often feels like I have to be helped off the bike.  Aching muscles are common place in my life and I start to wonder something may be wrong if I do not hurt.  Along with my training regimen and body conditioning through stretching, I will regularly see my Physio for massage and live in my Sigvaris Compression gear.

Greatest thing about the great outdoors:

Letting yourself get lost and relaxing from the world.  As an age group triathlete, you still need to maintain a full time job in order to help service your habit and lifestyle.  Being in the great outdoors almost allows you to forget about everything that is going on around you and allows you to recover mentally.

Who are your sporting heroes:

There are so many out there that could be within a shout of hero status in my life but I would have to agree the cyclists Mark Cavendish, Bradley Wiggins on the road and Chris Hoy on the track. In my own sport of triathlon though you can't look beyond the enormous domination that is the brothers Brownlee. But really these are just idols.  

For a true Hero look at Team Hoyt  watch http://www.youtube.com/watch?client=mv-google&gl=GB&hl=en&v=64A_AJjj8M4&nomobile=1

How I use Natural Heroes:

My best use of Natural Hero is to aid recovery post exercise.  Used in conjunction with my regular massage and rolling routine,  Soaking in a Hot Ginger Muscle Soak followed by a self massage with Hot Ginger Muscle Rub is just the thing immediately prior to climbing back into my compression kit.  The cooling Peppermint Spray on my shoulders following a tough session in the pool not only helps ease my aching limbs but also serves as a decongestant to me when I am affected by the chlorine.

Website: www.theharderitri.weebly.com
Twitter: @mrwalkergs