In 2007, noted Japanese writer Haruki Murakami published a book called What I Talk about When I Talk about Running. In it, the iconic author discussed his 25-year passion for long-distance running. Inspired by the compelling prose, thousands of readers have since taken up the daily exercise. Eric Zhong is one of them.
Having now spent six years sprinting around town, the experienced marathon participant has come to realize that even though running is probably the easiest means of exercise, it does require specialized gear – at least if you want to get serious about it. “If you wear the wrong shoes or you drink water at a wrong time… you are actually hurting yourself,” Zhong says.
With the objective of providing appropriate running equipment and advice, Zhong opened the Run Long Running Gear Shop in October last year. Located on the second floor of GT Land in Zhujiang Xincheng, the shop is filled with apparatus for professional competitors and those just trying to keep in shape.
Shoes are in abundance, but don’t expect to see common brands like Nike or Adidas that you can find in a regular department store. Names like Salomon, Hoka One One and Tenican are stocked here. Though not familiar to the general public, all three are world-class, specialized sports lines.
Light, flexible and air-permeable attire is attractively displayed on the store mannequins. Different outfits are designed for different activities: Australian brand 2XU is an ideal option if you are doing road running, while Saloman makes great apparel for trail running and hiking.
In addition to shoes and outfits, Run Long also sells a variety of protectors like bracers, socks and sunglasses, watches to monitor running performances, massage instruments for muscle relief, snacks for energy supply and books on how to run – yes, it sounds silly, but you’d be surprised at what you don’t know.
Eager to put his experience to use, Zhong is more than happy to offer suggestions to customers. Simply tell him your budget and what kind of running you are focusing on, and you’ll be walking out with not just accoutrements, but plenty of tips too!
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