You can choose from a range of runs, including a 10k, half marathon and marathon trail run to put your determination and power to the test and all you have to do to be in with a chance of free entry is log on to the official SportsDirect.com Facebook and Twitter pages.

There are two different ways to enter the competition: if you’re a tweeter- SportsDirect.com are asking ‘In less than 140 characters- tell us what you love most about running ?’ and if you’re a fan on Facebook, you can tell them where in the World you would love to go running and why.  One entry will be chosen at random as the winner each week from both sites.

The challenge itself will take place in Fitz Park, Keswick, in the Lake District. The course will consist of a long scenic lap, taking in views of Keswick, Derwentwater and Bassenthwaite from the path below Skiddaw, with a slightly shorter lap to accommodate the 10k trail.  The half marathon runners will cover one large and one short lap, with the marathon runners tackling two large laps and two short laps.

So if you feel you’re ready for the challenge, step up and enter online today. You can also find full details on the event on the official Great Trail Challenge website.

Jenny Craig Launches New Ambassadors: Dame Edna & Barry Humphries!

“Possums, Barry and I both appreciate the influence we have over our adoring public.  Just like the Beckhams, people follow and copy our every move.  And lately, well let’s be brutally honest, we’ve let ourselves go and haven’t been good role models.  I have a wardrobe full of breathtaking gowns but I have to hold my breath to wear them …only three gowns fit me these days.  When I’m on stage, I have to suck in my tummy because I fear my dress will burst at the seams.  Just like my dear friend Mel B, I’m hoping to get my pre-baby body back!   While that was many years ago the outcome should be the same with the help of JENNY CRAIG. 

“I’ve always had a nice little double chin, but recently it’s turned into a quadruple chin.  I want to live a long time and I am ready for JENNY CRAIG,” said Edna.

Barry Humphries also worries about Edna’s weight.  “We were in London recently and Edna’s looks were savaged by one critic in particular who described her as rather ‘tubby’.  Well, that was a wake up call for both of us, especially with our so-called “farewell” tour, ‘Eat, Pray, Laugh’, about to start in June.

“We want everyone to rally behind us on Jenny’s ‘Edna Forever’ campaign.  Edna is a legend; she deserves the very best.  We may be approaching our early twilight years – or as I like to call them, our ‘after lunch years’ – but Edna has some sage advice to impart regardless of your age,” said Mr Humphries.

Barry also admits he has his own problems with food and will be supporting Edna and encouraging all men to think about their health.

“I have a problem with food and I’m not ashamed to admit it.  Don’t forget, you can get help.  There’s no shame in a man getting help.  It’s a shame if you don’t!“

Find out why Edna chose JENNY CRAIG, why she has a tapeworm as a family pet and her tips for looking like a megastar by clicking here.

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Note to editors:

One of the leading weight management programmes in the US, JENNY CRAIG’s unique Mind-Food-Body approach combines delicious home delivered food with weekly one-to-one consultations. JENNY CRAIG has had more than 5 million clients over the past 10 years in US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand and launched in the UK in April 2010.

JENNY CRAIG costs from £11 per week. For more information contact 0800 088 2034 or visit http://www.jennycraig.co.uk.

For more information, contact JENNY CRAIG UK PR Manager Sam Westcott – sam.westcott@uk.nestle.com

Taking up a new hobby or sport can be quite a challenge, not only physically but on the wallet too! SportsDirect.com’s range of running gear including trainers, clothing and accessories will not only get you looking the part but will save you money on top brands. Right now you can get up to 80% off selected running gear for both men and women.

If you’re training in the evenings, hi-vis running clothing is essential to stay safe on the roads; SportsDirect.com’s hi-vis range starts from just £4.99 online and you can choose from shirts, coats and reflective accessories to be seen.

If you’re just starting out as a runner, jogger or power walker; finding your own pace and rhythm can take time. Avoid over heating during your exercise routines with the right base layer clothing. Starting from just £2, the SportsDirect.com base layer collection includes shirts and running tights to help regulate your body temperature for a more comfortable, sustainable exercise routine.

It’s not just the right clothing that can help improve your fitness regime, finding running shoes that fit well and prove their stability against the elements is another step in perfecting your training. SportsDirect.com offers a wide variety of running shoes for men and women from trusted, quality running brands such as New Balance and Karrimor. The online sportswear giants also stock speciality trail running shoes if you plan to take on a tough terrain throughout your training.

Wherever you run and however you run, SportsDirect.com’s selection of equipment and clothing will suit your ability, style and performance without breaking the bank. Log on today to find the latest deals at www.sportsdirect.com or stay up to date socially via the official Facebook and Twitter pages.

After finishing the New York marathon in 2006, seven time Tour De France champion cyclist Lance Armstrong described it as “the hardest physical thing” he had ever done. According to Runners World, approximately forty percent of marathon entrants in 2011 were first timer marathoners. First time runners need to do long-term planning, stick to a rigorous training schedule and eat a balanced diet for at least four months before a marathon. Based on 23 years worth of data, Peak Performance, an information website for athletes and coaches, reported one in six runners came in to contact with St John’s ambulance, one in 800 visit a hospital accident and emergency department and one in 10,000 were admitted to hospital. In 2006, reality television celebrity Jade Goody was hospitalised while attempting the London marathon without adequate training. Leave your footprint in your marathon by training properly with our running shoes.

Sports Direct, the UK’s leading sportswear retailer has a wide range of running shoes. From Adidas to Sketchers, we have running shoes to suit everyone’s tastes. You can also pre-order the super naturally flexible Nike Flex running shoes available online now in different colours.

Plant your foot in our running shoes on SportsDirect.com. Check out our latest offers and deals on our Facebook and Twitter pages.

Jenny Craig UK

1. Easter is the end of lent, so don’t start indulging before Easter Day.
2. Egg yourself on to reach a specific goal that you would like to achieve before Easter. Aim for a weight loss of 1 to 2lbs per week.
3. One Hot Cross Bun is the equivalent of two slices of bread and contains a lot less fat than a croissant.
4. Authentic Easter eggs are decorated boiled eggs. This chocolate free variety is wonderful at the breakfast table. For inspiration, look up how the Orthodox Greeks dye their eggs red with onion skins.
5. Outdoor egg hunts are a fun way to burn a couple of extra calories.
6. The key to effective portion control is: quality over quantity.
7. Bonnets, bunnies, chicken! Have some fun and get active by making some Easter decorations with your kids.
8. Think about the whole experience when you eat your Easter treat. Take time to unwrap it and enjoy it!
9. Share your treats, so there is less for you!
10. To avoid temptation, give away your leftover treats after Easter Monday.

***

Note to editors:

One of the leading weight management programmes in the US, JENNY CRAIG’s unique Mind-Food-Body approach combines delicious home delivered food with weekly one-to-one consultations. JENNY CRAIG has had more than 5 million clients over the past 10 years in US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand and launched in the UK in April 2010.

JENNY CRAIG costs from £11 per week. For more information contact 0800 088 2034 or visit http://www.jennycraig.co.uk.

For more information, contact JENNY CRAIG UK PR Manager Sam Westcott at sam.westcott@uk.nestle.com

Scary Spice’s Amazing 33lb Weight Loss With Jenny Craig

Just six months after the birth of her daughter, Mel has lost an impressive 33lbs and reached her goal weight of 9 stone 4lbs.

“Since Spice Girls, I’ve had three adorable baby girls and you know what, as a mum it’s ok to ask for help losing weight,” says Mel.

For Mel, it was JENNY CRAIG’S unique support system – with her personal consultant and tailored eating plans – that really made the difference.

“Us mums think we can do everything.  Well, let me tell you, calling JENNY CRAIG was the best thing I ever did.  I didn’t have to worry about planning healthy meals, preparing or measuring food or even counting points.  It was all done for me and delivered – AND I had a consultant keeping me on track.  JENNY CRAIG helped me take away the worry out of losing weight,” Mel continues.

“Now I’ve lost the weight, I feel like I can take on the world.  My energy levels have skyrocketed and my brain is firing on all cylinders.  I feel I can now be the best mum possible.”

It’s fair to say that Mel is absolutely over the moon with her new look.

“My body is not only back to the shape it used to be, I actually feel better than before because I know I have earned it; it’s not something I just woke up to and BAM – there it was.  I’ve been pregnant and exhausted with my work and had next to no sleep looking after my gorgeous baby, but JENNY CRAIG has allowed me to look after myself.”

“JENNY CRAIG  has not only been a helping hand, it’s been my saviour!” Mel said.

“Thanks to JENNY CRAIG, I can easily slide into my old jeans – the ones my 13 year old daughter Pheonix has been ‘borrowing’ for the past 15 months!  My husband Stephen is beyond excited!  He’s loving my new body and has showered me with sexy lingerie.  Girls – if you’ve got it, flaunt it to the man you love.  Don’t lose the fun – lose the weight!”

JENNY CRAIG is running a 50% special offer until April 30^th 2012, so if you want to be a yummy mummy, you can start losing weight with a two week Programme for just £38.50 a week.  Call 0800 088 2145 or visit www.jennycraig.co.uk for more information.

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For further information please contact: sam.westcott@uk.nestle.com

Note to editors:

A leading global weight loss programme, JENNY CRAIG’s unique Mind-Food-Body approach combines delicious home delivered food with weekly one-to-one consultations. JENNY CRAIG has had more than 5 million clients over the past 10 years in US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand and launched in the UK in April 2010.

JENNY CRAIG costs from £11 per week. For more information contact 0800 088 2034 or visit www.jennycraig.co.uk.

Social Support

The Australian researchers V. Burke, N. Giangiulio and their team found that, though people who live together as a couple tend to gain weight at a similar pace, they also achieve better results when they decide to fight the flab as a couple.

Dietitians stress the importance of support from family and friends to sustain behaviour change, which is essential for permanent weight loss.

Jacqui Morrell, JENNY CRAIG dietitian, says: “Sometimes, partners are reluctant to accommodate changes to eating patterns. In that case, support may have to be sought outside the family. That’s why JENNY CRAIG’s weight management programme combines meals with personal consultancy.

“Social support can take many forms, depending on the situation of the individual. It may be simply asking your partner to join you in an activity such as going for a walk, or planning your shopping list together. Banning brimming biscuit tins from the house and surplus wine bottles from the rack should be a joint effort. Helping your partner stick to his or her weight loss programme is a way of showing that you care for him or her.”

Calorie-free Valentine’s Gifts

A box of chocolates is not the most thoughtful present for someone who is trying to control their weight!  Fortunately, there are plenty of other ways to indulge that special someone. The JENNY CRAIG top 5 Valentine’s Day presents are:

1. Roses – just as romantic and traditional as chocolates
2. A romantic stroll by the riverbank or around a local beauty spot – some wonderful together time and your exercising!
3. A fabulous new dress for her or a shirt for him – go on, show off that new body!
4. Fragrant massage oil – and a long, loving back rub
5. A pair of salsa shoes and an introductory salsa dance lesson – try something new to go with your new energy!

And to celebrate Valentine’s Day, JENNY CRAIG will be sharing the love with a 50% discount off a 2 week programme.  That’s all your meals AND your own personal weight loss consultant for just £38.50 a week /£5.50 a day (+ delivery charge).  Call 0800 917 5540 or visit www.jennycraig.co.uk

-ends-

Note to editors:

One of the leading weight management programmes in the US, JENNY CRAIG’s unique Mind-Food-Body approach combines delicious home delivered food with weekly one-to-one consultations. JENNY CRAIG has had more than 5 million clients over the past 10 years in US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand and launched in the UK in April 2010.

JENNY CRAIG costs from £11 per week. For more information contact 0800 088 2034 or visit www.jennycraig.co.uk.

Fore more information contact JENNY CRAIG UK PR Manager Sam Westcott at sam.westcott@uk.nestle.com.

It’s now mid February, the new year’s resolutions to keep fit and join the gym are long gone, however the thought of improving your wellbeing still looms as the country is constantly reminded of growing obesity levels, heart disease, depression and cancer in even the younger generations.

Whilst a gym membership may seem quite daunting, not only to your schedule but to your bank balance, but there is an alternative to huffing and puffing on the treadmill for a lot less money. Walking. The idea is simple, but incredibly effective. Various medial researches have shown that just 30 minutes of walking per day can actually reduce the risk of heart disease by a huge 30-50%. Many people are also surprised to find how easy it is to fit these 30 minutes into the average day.

Many people assume that you have to pop on your pair of new running shoes in order to make a huge difference. However, small swaps can be made and easily integrated into a daily routine; walking to the local shop rather than driving, taking the stairs rather than the lift or escalator- even walking around the supermarket doing your weekly shop for 30mins will help improve your fitness levels (even better if the trolley is full!). Best of all, these options come with no extra cost!  So there’s no need to sign a year’s contract to get fit, you can get your lifetime contract for free and reap the benefits as you get older.

Independent research shows that in 2011, exactly half of all British adults thought of themselves as overweight.  40% of British men felt this way about themselves, versus 59% of British women. What’s even more shocking is the way people dealt with their worries about their weight and health. The same research showed that 39% of the female and 23% of the male population said that they were trying to lose weight most of the time, and 14% of all Brits admitted that they often skip a meal in order to lose some weight.

Jacqui Morrell, JENNY CRAIG dietician, says:  “Skipping meals actually works against weight loss. Your metabolism will slow down if you don’t eat, which makes it more difficult to lose weight. On the JENNY CRAIG programme, we encourage people to have 3 meals and 3 snacks throughout the day.”

In 2007, the British psychologist Richard Wiseman studied 3000 people in the UK and discovered that 88% of our serious New Year’s resolutions are abandoned prematurely. Since the most popular New Year’s resolution is weight loss, it’s impressive that 84% of people who made the New Year’s resolution to lose weight with Jenny Craig are still going strong.

Jacqui Morrell says: “The key to JENNY CRAIG’s success is our very personal approach. If you’re on JENNY CRAIG, we prepare and deliver portion and calorie controlled food which spans a range of cuisines and is also incredibly tasty.   Clients have their own personal consultant who calls at a convenient time every week to discuss how it’s going and to inspire you to keep up the good work as you successfully lose weight. And if you have any questions throughout the week, clients can always get in touch with one of the consultants.  It really is one of the ultimate weight loss programmes – you’ll never look back!”

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Note to editors:

One of the leading weight management programmes in the US, JENNY CRAIG’s unique Mind-Food-Body approach combines delicious home delivered food with weekly one-to-one consultations. JENNY CRAIG has had more than 5 million clients over the past 10 years in US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand and launched in the UK in April 2010.

JENNY CRAIG costs from £11 per week.  For more information contact 0800 088 2034 or visit www.jennycraig.co.uk.

Fore more information contact JENNY CRAIG UK PR Manager Sam Westcott at sam.westcott@uk.nestle.com.

Mel B joined the JENNY CRAIG Programme in Australia – where the ad campaign originally launched – where she was working as a judge on X-Factor.  Now, Mel has already passed the halfway mark to her goal and there’s no stopping her!

Mel B hits UK TV Screens

“I am so excited I’ve passed my halfway.  My humps and bumps are still there but they’re a little bit smaller and I’m loving it“ Mel B said.

“Being halfway on my weight loss journey means I’m happier and healthier.  I still don’t get much sleep at night thanks to Madison, but with my new found energy I’m able to be a better mother.

Mel B is fronting JENNY CRAIG’s latest campaign with huge success, appealing to mothers to invest in themselves.

“Like all mums, I sometimes feel a little guilty taking time out for myself.  But this is about my health.  I think mums are the centre of their universe, so it’s just something I just had to do,” says Mel B.

In true Mel B fashion, she also had a more personal reward for when she finally reached her goal weight.  “I cannot wait until I reach my goal weight – I can, not, WAIT!  I’m gonna get my ‘thong on’!!  Woot Woot!”

Mel B acknowledges JENNY CRAIG’s 30 years experience as leading weight management experts and providing a support system second-to-none with individual consultants and tailored eating plans.

“Let’s face it, it’s really hard to lose weight by yourself…I hate diets – they don’t work, they’re confusing. JENNY CRAIG is not a diet, it’s a healthy eating plan that makes losing weight easy. I get everything figured out for me and I get supported every single week by my own consultant. I get my breakfast, lunch, and dinner already set, already planned, and my snacks. Brilliant!’” said Mel B.

Read more about Mel B’s weight loss journey at her blog or see her before/after video

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For more information visit www.jennycraig.co.uk

or contact sam.westcott@uk.nestle.com – 07585 909541