There is nothing quite like the atmosphere of the Great North Run. From the Red Arrows flying over the Tyne Bridge to the "Oggy Oggy Oggy" cheers in South Shields, it’s a day of pure North East pride. But as any runner will tell you, the 13.1 miles on the day are only half the battle. The real work happens in the months of training beforehand.
At Riverview HC Pharmacy, we want to make sure you reach that finish line feeling like a hero, not a heap. Here is your essential pharmacy checklist for GNR success:
Your feet are going to take a pounding. Don't wait for a blister to ruin your stride.
Prevention: Use anti-chafe balms on high-friction areas.
The "Emergency Kit": We stock hydrocolloid blister plasters that act like a second skin. If you feel a "hot spot" starting during a training run, stop and patch it up immediately.
If you’re training hard, water isn't always enough. When you sweat, you lose essential electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and magnesium. This can lead to the dreaded leg cramps at mile 10. Our pharmacists can recommend electrolyte tabs that you can drop into your water bottle to keep your muscles firing and your focus sharp.
It might be September, but running for two hours in the direct sun can lead to nasty burns and dehydration. We provide sweat-resistant sunscreens that won't run into your eyes the moment you start to glow.
Training for a half-marathon is a heavy load for your joints. We stock a range of magnesium flakes for a post-run soak, as well as topical anti-inflammatory gels to help with those inevitable niggles.
Whatever your goal—whether it’s a sub-90-minute flyer or just finishing for charity—we are here to support your journey. If you need advice on sports supports or managing an existing condition while training, contact our team or visit us in-store.
Whether you’re picking up prescriptions, exploring our wide range of over-the-counter products, or seeking guidance on specific conditions, our team is here to support you every step of the way.
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