News

I recently came across @chrissilver_triathlete page and I was immediately inspired by his story. As a dedicated professional triathlete, Chris was on top of his game before developing Long Covid. We got chatting and I was so captivated by Chris' determination and holistic approach to healing that I wanted to share his story with you all.As a result of his LC journey, Chris has combined his experience as a professional athlete with his knowledge as a Performance and Wellbeing Psychologist to start @well_being_first. Through his coaching he supports athletes to thrive, achieve and perform. Chris shares more about his path to recovery below:"Almost...

Sometimes it’s ok if not everyone “gets” your idea to finish a triathlon, become an ultra runner or sign up to a couch to 5k. I’ve come to realise that that’s their own version of reality - not yours! YOU get to decide how hard you work towards your goals or how much you REALLY want to make that vision in your mind a reality.From the moment I had the idea for VALA, I knew that I would jump through hoops not to add any artificial ingredients or preservatives to the formula. As someone that was new to the food...

Please join us in welcoming our newest ambassador Josh Wallace. Josh has been with us since the early days and has tested our gels out on many runs and rides. He's a part of our OG VALA crew, that's for sure! Since he started competing in triathlons, Josh has been awarded U20 National Sprint Tri silver medal, U17 National Duathlon Champion and Welsh Interregional U17 1500m Bronze medals, all before the age of 19. He's an incredibly talented young triathlete who currently trains with Bridgend Swim Club and Swansea Uni Road Cycling Team. Josh has a bright future ahead of him and this...

VALA buffs have landed! This versatile piece of kit is a must-have for runs, rides, walks and hikes. Rock it as a headband, neckerchief, scarf or scrunchie and show some VALA love when you're out on your adventures!I’m always passionate about supporting other independent British businesses, that’s why our buffs are designed and made by a small business up in North England.Order online at the VALA energy store and don’t forget to tag us in your snaps✌🏻

This week's guest post is by Sarju @mistrysarju, who over the last few months has been training for an endurance walk. Keep reading to find out more about the lessons that Sarj has learned during his training and what motivates him to keep going!"Hi everyone, I’m Sarju and I’m on the journey of trying to accomplish an endurance walk.Over the last 10 years I haven’t been as focused on my health, have really let exercising drop down my priority list and let life take over. In December 2019, I felt like I had to change and focus on myself more. Both...

You might already know that I started VALA because my boyfriend Dann - who is a keen marathon runner - struggled to find a gel that didn’t make him feel awful during his training and racing 🏃🏻‍♂️Like so many runners, Dann almost ‘fell into’ running. What started as a few 5ks around our local park in Melbourne after work quickly evolved into 10ks, half marathons and eventually full marathons. (If you’re thinking “I thought she’s Welsh, why is she talking about Melbourne?” 😂 I moved to Australia 🇦🇺 in 2017 for 18 months, which is where I met Dann!).As Dann’s running...