Billed as the ultimate running destination, the new Sweatshop store in the heart of the City of London is a must-visit for those bitten by the running bug.
The three floor store is a state of the art running centre housing a number of leading technologies and services to help everybody be the best runner they can possibly be. Sweatshop have partnered with a number of running services to make this the ultimate runners space.
The basement has been taken over by City Athletic – a high end sports and performance gym with a 2 lane sprint track alongside the latest cardio and strength equipment. Their experts can help you train not just for running, but swimming, cycling and other activities too.
The ground floor hosts the Sweatshop retail area and on my visit I was really impressed by the excellent knowledge and service provided by the staff as I underwent a sports bra fitting and a gait analysis. Just one gripe - please add some hooks and a stool in the changing room - us women really appreciate somewhere to hang our clothes when getting changed!
As with all Sweatshop stores if you are unhappy with your trainers you can return them within 30 days giving you that peace of mind when purchasing. You will also receive a free bespoke training plan to help you achieve your running goals. And the store has its own free running group – with runs three times a day (7.30am, 1pm and 6.30pm) so there is sure to be a time to suit your schedule.
On the top floor you will find three specialist running services. I visited The Running School to receive some expert advice on how to become a better runner. This is highly recommended for anyone who is either looking to work through an injury, or simply improve their running style in the hope of bettering a PB. After being filmed on a treadmill one of their coaches will analyse your running technique and devise a six week programme involving both treadmill work and strength and conditioning exercises to make you a better runner.
Alongside The Running School you will find The Altitude Centre, which offers you the chance to train at high altitude. Normally only found in high performance sports centres or exclusive gyms, this is the first pay as you go centre open to the public. Spin and treadmill classes are offered at altitude to help boost performance, improve recovery or acclimatise people training for high altitude challenges.
The final centre is the Perfect Balance Clinic, a specialist rehab clinic offering a host of therapies including sports massage, osteopathy and pilates.
There is no doubt that this store raises the bar when it comes to running shops – I can’t wait to see how the competitions responds!
Sweatshop, 6 Trump Street, London, EC2V 8AF
Opening hours: Monday – Friday 7am – 10pm, Saturday 8am – 6pm, Sunday 10am – 4pm
