RUN SPECIALIST
THABO MALOKA
TOTALSPORTS MIMOSA MALL , BLOEMFONTEIN
WHAT IS YOUR RUNNING BACKGROUND ? In 2013 I started running for fun and to keep my body healthy and fit . I was playing rugby , but my league closed , so I wanted to stay fit . Before I knew it , I was running marathons , starting with the Kloppers Marathon . It was hard , hard , hard , and made me realise how important training is , but I have been hooked ever since .
WHY ARE YOU PASSIONATE ABOUT RUNNING ? Running keeps my mind clear and focused and I enjoy the open air . It takes me away from bad thoughts .
HOW ARE YOU QUALIFIED TO BE A RUNNING SPECIALIST ? While I do different sports , running is one of my codes . Because of this , I was selected by my store to go on Run Specialist training in 2019 , all done through Totalsports . We learnt about customer service , how to select the best running shoes for different styles of running , and also what apparel runners should be using .
WHAT DO YOU SEE AS THE BIGGEST PROBLEM WITH RUNNERS THAT COME INTO YOUR STORE , I . E . WHAT DO RUNNERS NOT KNOW THAT THEY SHOULD ? Most of the runners that come into my store are buying footwear that is incorrect for their style of running . For example , they do not know that they are overpronating , which causes incorrect wear and tear with their shoes , and worst of all , many get shin splints from running , all caused by running in incorrect footwear .
HOW IMPORTANT IS IT TO TALK TO YOU BEFORE BUYING ANY RUNNING PRODUCTS ? I ask runners to bring their shoes into the store , so I can look at it and see if the problem is just general wear and tear . I can then advise if it ’ s a neutral or stability shoe that is needed . I
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can also ask questions about what they are running for , beginners or intermediate runners , are they walking , using a treadmill or running on the road . All of this guides what products I recommend .
WHEN STARTING A SESSION WITH A CUSTOMER , WHAT IS THE FIRST THING YOU ASK ? My first question I ask a customer is if he / she is a beginner or an intermediate runner .
IS BEING BASED IN A STORE LIKE TOTALSPORTS AN ADVANTAGE , AS YOU HAVE ACCESS TO ALL THE BRANDS ? Yes , absolutely . I find it easier to guide runners with all the stock we have available .
HOW DO YOU KEEP UP TO DATE WITH SPORTS TECHNOLOGY , SO YOU CAN RECOMMEND THE BEST PRODUCT MATCH FOR CUSTOMERS ? I update myself with Yoobic Boost , an instore programme we use to learn about shoes and models we sell . I also search on google for the latest models and update myself with the features available .
WHAT IS YOUR ADVICE FOR ANYONE GETTING INTO RUNNING ? You must do your research and get information about the shoe you are going to start running with , and whether you are neutral or pronating . Are you preparing for a marathon or running just for fun ? These are important questions to ask yourself to make sure your journey is something you enjoy !
64 ISSUE 144 AUGUST 2021 / www . modernathlete . co . za