Here at Intersport Elverys, we are going to give you some tips on doing sport at home (both in-door and outdoor), to help keep your children entertained for hours, while also ensuring that they keep improving their sporting skills. We have selection of balls, goals, nets and much more sporting equipment available online if you need it, with free home delivery on everything. Take a look below for all the details.

Indoor Games

Everyone may not have the room to play outside, so here are some ideas to keep entertainment value high within the household.

1 Why not use some cones in the hallway or other rooms to create an indoor obstacle course (of course, only if it’s safe)? Get the stop-watch out and make a competition out of it.

2 Tennis balls can also be excellent for indoor games. A simple game of catch can provide hours of fun (especially if you think about that Friends Episode). Tennis balls can also be used, with 10 paper/plastic cups as pins for 10-pin bowling.

3 A game of hand tennis can also be a way of keeping entertainment high in the hallway. Put a barrier in the middle of the hall and use your hand to hit the ball back and forward (warning, this one will definitely get competitive).

4 If you have chalk in the house, why not draw a circle on a door and use it as target practice. See how many you can get in a row.

If you have any other indoor game ideas, let us know through our social media channels and we’ll add to our list of recommendations.

Gaelic Football

If you have a ball at home, every aspiring footballer should use it to improve their pickups, soloing, kicking and hand passing. All they need is a wall, a garden or driveway. Practice makes perfect. If you are looking for more, we have a 10-foot Super Sports goal is perfect for anyone with some room around their house and is ideal for sports such as Gaelic Football, Hurling and Soccer.

Hurling and Camogie

For every young hurler and camogie players, practice is key in terms of pucking and catching. Lots of the best players down the years have credited their skills to hitting a ball up against a wall for hours on end. As they say, hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard.  If you don’t want the wall to be used, we do have the Reydon Hurley Master which is a purpose designed frame with a net and target area for training and practicing your skills.

Basketball

Basketball is a sport that has always garnered interest in Ireland. Most garages seem to have a basketball hoop on them, outside homes across the country. If you have one of these hoops, go out and start shooting into it and try and beat your personal best.

Soccer

Almost everyone in Ireland has a football, which they can go out and kick against a wall for hours on end. Setting up a bin as a target and kick the ball into the bin will endlessly improve passing and shooting skills.

If you have any other outdoor game ideas, let us know through our social media channels and we’ll add to our list of recommendations.

Visit our website HERE. We offer free delivery when you spend over €60.

At Intersport Elverys we understand what is truly happening in the beating heart of sport and running continues to grow as one of those sports. We thought it would be good to share Killian Byrne’s of Irish Runner’s review of some of our latest running product which featured in the latest Irish Runner Magazine. These are some great products across some new and top running brands giving you the runner some insight into how they performed when put into action.

Read about his experiences below.

Hoka Speedgoat 4

We reviewed the Hoka Speedgoat 3 last year and it was one of our first jumps into the world of trail and mountain running. These shoes need to be light, stiff, water resistant and stop you slipping, tripping and falling and HOKA are getting a really good name in the trail world for making the best of everything that’s required.

The 4 has a wider fit compared to the Speedgoat 3 and it makes a difference in comfort and performance but where this shoe announces itself is in its Vibram Megagrip outsole. With 5mm lugs designed to add traction on wet ground there is no slipping anywhere in these shoes. The tight mesh protects well and maintains a very good barrier to the dirt and moisture leak that the Irish trails will inevitably bring.

Because these are Hoka shoes you’ll get the unmistakable Hoka rocker sole and while it’s slightly less pronounced on the Speedgoat it provides the cushioning and comfort the brand is famous for. I’m going to break with tradition a little and do something I rarely do – if you don’t trail run (or run at all) then these would be very decent walking shoes; either for the hills or just a walk in the park. They’re comfortable, look good and will wear well. Search them out.

See them HERE

Aftershokz Trekz Air Headphones

At Irish Runner we have always advised against zoning out with music while road running. But when bone conducting technology used by the US Army was mentioned it piqued our interest and a test was needed to see if these really did perform as everyone raves about.

For those not familiar with the technology, the ‘speakers’ on the headset sit in front of the ear, not on them and use the bones in the head to conduct your music to the ears. Not actually covering the ears means the user remains aware of ambient sound and any possible dangers that may occur.

First – the sound. The music quality was excellent, you wouldn’t compare it to a live orchestra but for the purposes designed the Trekz Air are 10/10. Crisp, Clear and loud if required.

Second – the safety. Could I hear ambient noise? Yes. Was I distracted by the music playing? Yes. If you’re listening to music, you will be distracted by music, but you are certainly more aware of what’s going on around you. In this environment of practically silent electric vehicles only the beep of a horn will alert you.

The Aftershokz Trekz Air are a great pair of headphones, the Bluetooth connection to your player is very good and I wholeheartedly recommend them – just be careful out there.

See them HERE

Asics Cumulus 21 Knit

The beginning of the year sees the big brands launch and relaunch shoes on a constant basis. Sometimes a new shoe brings with it considerable changes, sometimes the changes are minor but still make a difference and it’s the latter category we find ourselves with the 21^st version of the mainstay Cumulus from Asics.

This shoe contains ALL the technology. Flitefoam midsole, gel cushioning in the heel, rubber and ‘durasponge’ in the sole, a dual layer mesh and a sockliner. There now, stuffed to the brim with all the best that Asics can offer and it all makes a difference. You don’t bring out 21 versions of a shoe unless its popular and its not hard to see why the Cumulus is back again – for those that want to know, it’s a neutral shoe, it looks great and it performs beyond expectations. This is not a middle of the road shoe; this is a shoe that will let you perform to your best whatever your distance.

Did I mention that its comfortable? Because it is. A newly designed collar on the heel protects the achilles and locks the foot in, the sock design limits slipping and is solid. The Cumulus isn’t the lightest trainer on the market but let’s not argue over a few oz – there is plenty of stiffness, lots of grip and will provide the casual runner with a good seasons worth of decent mileage. This is a real workhorse of a shoe.

See them HERE

What did you think of Killian’s product reviews? Have you tested any of these for yourself? Keep an eye out for more reviews from Killian Byrne.

See the latest in running HERE. Free delivery on standard delivery’s when you spend €60 or more.

It’s always important to stay active and healthy and what better way to do this than going for a run! If you have never been big into running and are curious about starting, have a read through some FAQ’s questions that Athletics Ireland get asked.

At Intersport Elverys we understand what is truly happening in the beating heart of sport. Wherever you look, you find people taking sport to Incredible places and running as one of them continues to grow in numbers everywhere you look. We’re rooted in the running community, with an aim to empower the runner to perform at their best wherever the run takes them.

How do I get started?

Start walking for a length of time that feels comfortable–anywhere from 10 to 30 minutes. Once you can walk for 30 minutes easily, sprinkle 1- to 2-minute running sessions into your walking. As time goes on, make the running sessions longer, until you’re running for 30 minutes straight. See our walk your first run blog post for more tips and advice.

Do I need to stretch before I run?

Warming up is a key part of any exercise routine, so time is best spent warming up the muscles rather than stretching before activity. Do a couple of minutes of light aerobic exercise to loosen up your muscles and warm you up for your run. Some good pre-run warm-up exercises include walking briskly, marching, jogging slowly, or cycling on a stationary bike. Make sure you don’t rush your warmup.

What footwear do I need? 

Running doesn’t require much outside of the will to start, but you have to have a good pair of running shoes. Running shoes are designed to help your foot strike the ground properly, reducing the amount of shock that travels up your leg. They’re also made to fit your foot snugly, which reduces the slipping and sliding that can lead to blisters. We know, every runner like every run is different. We provide the enthusiasm and advice to find the perfect running shoe to suit your feet and lifestyle.

How is running on a treadmill different from outdoor runs?

A treadmill “pulls” the ground underneath your feet, and you don’t face any wind resistance, both of which make running somewhat easier. Many treadmills are padded, making them a good option if you’re carrying a few extra pounds or are injury-prone and want to decrease impact. To better simulate the effort of outdoor running, you can always set your treadmill at a 1-percent incline.

Where should I run?

The beauty of running is that it’s right outside your front door. Wherever you are, You can run anywhere being safe and enjoyable to do so. The best running routes are scenic, well lit, free of traffic, and well populated. Think of running as a way to explore new territory.

I always feel out of breath when I run, is something wrong?

Running out of breath is completely common but Yes, you’re body is trying to meet the increased demands of you probably trying to run too fast. Relax. Slow down. One of the biggest mistakes beginners make is to run too fast. Concentrate on breathing from deep down in your belly, and if you have to, take walking breaks.

How do I prevent getting a side stitch when I run?

Side stitches are common among beginners because your abdomen is not used to the jostling that running causes. Most runners find that stitches go away as fitness increases. Also, don’t eat any solid foods during the hour before you run. When you get a stitch, breathe deeply, concentrating on pushing all of the air out of your abdomen. This will stretch out your diaphragm muscle (just below your lungs), which is usually where a cramp occurs.

See all running goods from footwear, clothing, accessories and tech here at Intersport Elverys. Free delivery on standard orders.

At Intersport Elverys we understand what is truly happening in the beating heart of sport. Wherever you look, you find people taking sport to Incredible places and running as one of them continues to grow in numbers everywhere you look. It is Ireland’s 3rd most popular activity with 7% of the Irish population taking part. We’re rooted in the running community, with an aim to empower the runner to perform at their best wherever the run takes them. From the road to the hilltop, to running 5K’s and beyond we share your passion for running. Whether you run to beat your personal best or just for fun, we have everything you need across our product, advise, service and enthusiasm.

We know, every runner like every run is different. We provide the enthusiasm and advice to find the perfect running shoe to suit your feet and lifestyle. Some run to go further, some run to go faster and some run because it makes them feel free, alive and happy, whatever your reason to run get what you desire from Intersport Elverys.

With this campaign, we’re going to take people on an amazing journey through some of the most unique and interesting running communities in sport— connecting Intersport Elverys with the true stories of those taking the sport to new places. We aim to build an emotional connection with our customers by inspiring them with the extraordinary places people take running. You’ll hear stories from adventure runner Niko Zeigert about how he found his heart of running. You’ll hear from local runners in the Irish community and see our passion for running showcased through Irish events throughout the year, all while delivering the latest ranges from Nike, adidas, ASICS and more as well as offering an In-store experience that won’t be matched across the running scene.

See the latest in running HERE. Free delivery on standard delivery’s when you spend €60 or more.

Take a look through some workouts below that can easily be done at home covering a mix of HIIT, Circuits and Pilates. We hosted a number of In-store Fitness classes over the past few weeks with a focus on creating content that our customer can easily try at home. Check out some of the classes held by Fitness Trainers Dee Fitz and Leanne Moore and athletes Greg O’Shea, Dean Rock, Louise Galvin and Sharlene Mawdsley.

Watch the videos and give them a try and you’ll be sure to work up a sweat at home.

TRAIN WITH LEANNE MOORE AND PUMA ATHLETES DEAN ROCK AND SHARLENE MAWDSLEY, MARCH, 6TH | 

We’re delighted to announce that PT Leanne Moore led a taster Circuit fitness class with Puma athletes, GAA player Dean Rock and Irish Runner Sharlene Mawdsley in our Dundrum store to put the Puma Zone XT range to the test !

See the Puma Zone XT & LQDCELL

WORKOUT

Circuits x3 | 2 Minutes at each

Station One

Sit Ups

Station Two

Kettlebell Squats

Station Three

Squat to Press

Station Four

Ball Slam

Station Five

Plank x 2 Minutes

 

TRAIN WITH DEE FITZ, FEBRUARY, 27TH |

HIIT class smashed with PT Dee Fitz in the Reebok HIIT TR training shoe! Participants took part in the class and got to put the HIIT TR to the test for themselves!

See the workout. Check out the Reebok HIIT TR

WORKOUT BELOW :

WARM UP X3

X10 Squats

X10 Hold Squats

CORE x3

Beginners 20-30 SEC PER ROUND

Advanced – 40-50 SEC PER ROUND

Low Plank

Low to High Plank

Mountain Climbers

Feet Jumps

Shoulder Taps

HIIT SESSION X3

Squat Jumps 10,8,6,4,2

Push ups 10,8,6,4,2

Mountain Climbers 10,8,6,4,2

 

TRAIN WITH GREG O’SHEA, FEBRUARY, 19TH |

We’re were delighted to have Rugby 7’s star Greg O’Shea with us in our Dundrum store for an exclusive taster 30 minute HIIT and Pilates class.

Check out the Nike SuperRep

WORKOUT BELOW;

Pilates/warm up w Resistance Bands

Lateral Pushes on each leg – X5 each direction for X3 rounds

Squat Patterns – X10 hold on #10 for 10secs for X3 rounds

Stretching

Calfs , Hamstring and Hip Flexer

HIIT SESSION

ROUND 1 – X3

X10 SQUATS

X10 SQUATS JUMPS

10SECS HOLD

X10 LUNGES EACH LEG

X10 SIDE LUNGES EACH LEG

ROUND 2 – X3

X20 MOUNTAIN CLIMBERS

X20 TUCK JUMPS

X20 JUMPING JACKS

ROUND 3

X10 TOE TAPS EACH LEG

X5 TOE SLIDES EACH LEG

X10 TOE REACH

X20SEC PLANK

TRAIN WITH LOUISE GALVIN, MARCH, 11TH

Rugby 7’s player and sports physio Louise Galvin held a sports Pilates class focusing around injury prevention and recovery in our Blanchardstown store where she was promoting the adidas ReImagine Sport collection that aims to tailor to the athlete whatever the size and whatever way they choose to train.

See the adidas ReImagine Sport collection

Keep an eye out more classes to come!

#WhereverYouTakeTraining #TakingTrainingInStore #HeartofTraining

Shop the latest in training HERE. Free delivery on standard delivery’s when you spend €60 or more.