Blog article
Make the most of your start and finish line experience
Whether you’re running, walking, or wheeling, HBF Run for a Reason start and finish lines will be buzzing with energy, entertainment and that incredible sense of community spirit it’s known for - so before and after your run, make sure you soak up all the fun! There’ll be loads happening to keep you smiling and moving, and here’s just some of what you can look forward to.
Start strong with a warm up by HBF Physio
The atmosphere at the start line can only be described as electric! Nervous energy? Sure. Excitement? Definitely. There’ll be music pumping, celebrity appearances and the all-important warm up video by the HBF Physio team who’ll guide you through some gentle activation exercises designed to wake up your muscles and get your body primed for the kilometres ahead.
While everyone assembles at the start line in the early morning, Gloucester Park comes alive from 7:30am with music, food trucks and all the finish line fun. It’s free for spectators, so your friends and family can be right there as you claim your finish-line moment. There’s no shortage of fun for the kids too – keep an eye out for Buddy the Quokka who loves a good selfie!
HBF Physio Massage Zone
No matter how you crossed the finish line, your body did an amazing job, so head straight to the HBF Physio Massage Zone where there will be a team of massage therapists on hand to help ease those tight calves, tired quads, stiff hips or any other post-run aches. You’ve earned every moment of recovery, so let the so let the team take care of you with a free massage while you catch your breath.
A post run massage at the finish line can not only help enhance your recovery1 from the kilometres you’ve just completed, but it’s also a chance to simply stop, breathe and enjoy that “I did it!” moment while your body gets the care it deserves.
And if your body is still feeling the after effects of giving it everything on race day - whether it’s a day, a week later or even longer - it might be the perfect time to book a remedial massage or check-in with the team at HBF Physio. They can assess your pain and concerns and give you the personalised support you need to keep moving comfortably. Whether you’re an HBF member, with another health fund, or don’t hold health cover, everyone is welcome at HBF Physio.
Related article: Five reasons why you may need a remedial massage
Injured or need medical attention? Support will be right there
If you’ve picked up an injury or have a health concern after your run, support is available at the Medical Station located right at the finish line.
For more serious injuries or medical concerns, the experienced St John Ambulance team is ready to provide immediate medical care and support.
For the first time in HBF Run for a Reason history, the HBF Physio Injury Treatment Station will be staffed by a dedicated physiotherapy team. Physiotherapists will be on hand to assess and treat minor injuries including ankle sprains, muscle strains and soreness, and to offer practical guidance to support your recovery.
Whether it’s a niggle that needs attention or something more significant, the Medical Station is your first stop for professional assessment and treatment.
Don’t forget to fuel up
A long run can really fire up the appetite, so along with fresh fruit available as you cross the finish line, there’ll also be a great mix of food vendors waiting for you. Craving breakfast, lunch or a healthy post run snack? You’ll find plenty to hit the spot.
Most vendors will have EFTPOS available, but if you do need cash, you’ll find ATM facilities inside the grandstand at Gloucester Park.
Soak it all up
The instinct after a big run might be to bolt straight home, but once you’ve crossed the finish line, stay for the celebrations and good vibes! Take a moment to wander around, enjoy the music, let the kids dive into all the fun, and check out the prizes up for grabs from many of the HBF Run for a Reason partners. It’s the perfect way to wrap up your race-day morning and celebrate a job well done.
If you need help at any point at Gloucester Park, keep an eye out for our amazing HBF Run for a Reason volunteers. They’re easy to spot and always happy to lend a hand!
This article contains general information only and does not take into account the health, personal situation or needs of any person. In conjunction with your GP or treating health care professional, please consider whether the information is suitable for you and your personal circumstances.
1 Association of Massage Therapists: https://mobile.amt.org.au/massage-and-you/benefits-of-massage.html
