Gerard Hartmann at Balmoral Training Weekend

What a privilege it was to welcome Gerard Hartmann, Physical Therapist to Paula Radcliffe, Kelly Holmes, Sonia O'Sullivan, Lance Armstrong, Colin Jackson...among 53 Olympic medal winners.. to our training weekend at Balmoral.

Accompanied by his 'Right Hand Man', Ger Keane, he made a wonderful weekend spectacular! Our guests enjoyed first hand advice from one of the world's leading physical therapists on how to get the very most out of their running - the words that shone throughout the weekend were 'Passion, enthusiasm, dedication' and 'Ow!' when it came to trying some of the flexibility and core stability exercises!

To hear that we 'mortal' runners were benefitting from the same advice and help as the professionals was inspiring and Gerard and Ger's dazzling, infectious enthusiasm left everyone wanting more!

Balmoral lived up to the occasion as ever...as one of the groups on the Friday run experienced the beauty of the sunset-kissed snowy Cairngorms and a group of 12 stags in the dimming light of a huge new moon, everyone knew the weekend was going to be magical!

Mel Edwards, Chris Fenn gave their superb input (as always) to the weekend and yet again the catering staff at Balmoral served up fantastic food (with a lovely smile!) Glyn Jones, Head Ranger at the Estate fascinated the group with an insight into how Balmoral is run and Richard Harrison from Inov-8 gave some thoughts on running footwear.

Here are some of the comments we received at the end of the weekend:

'Huge enjoyment and would love to return. I felt like I was smiling all weekend, it was such fun. (Perhaps not for all of Ger's session!)' Jon from Cirencester

'Even though I knew it would be great - it was even better than I thought, especially Gerard Hartmann's masterclass. Many thanks for a superb weekend and for surpassing expectations again.' Tess from Surrey

'Fabulous weekend, enjoyed everything! Every aspect towards running was thought about. Would definitely come again.' Kate from Newcastle

'Fabulous weekend. Looking forward to putting into practice everything we have learned. Best one yet. Would love to see you top this one!' Anne from Peterhead

'I have had a fantastic time. I feel enthused and invigorated - not just about running but about life in general. I definitely plan to attend another weekend...The whole weekend far exceeded my expectations. All the speakers and guides were so friendly, informative and, above all, encouraging.' Emma from Inverness

'The whole weekend has just been outstanding! I have loved every part of it...you should be so proud of what you have achieved...I hope to see you again very soon.' Lis from Oxfordshire