Weekend Plans: The ING Rock ‘n’ Roll Health Expo

The ING Rock n’ Roll Philadelphia Half Marathon (formerly known as the  Philadelphia Distance Run) takes place this Sunday, September 19th, but even if you didn’t snag a spot quickly enough—the race is now sold out— there are still plenty of fun health and fitness perks to check out this weekend.

The health expo kicks off today, Friday, September 17th,  at 11:00 a.m. at the Philadelphia Convention Center (Hall C, 1101 Arch Street). Throughout the day you can stop by any of the more than 60-plus vendors to snag health and nutrition products and the latest running shoes and sports apparel, build your fitness knowledge through fitness seminars and health screenings, and get inspired by some of Philadelphia’s elite runners.

Friday’s showcase will include men and women’s elite race previews, where you’ll have the opportunity to meet defending champion Ryan Hall and U.S. superstar Sharlane Flanagan. Sarah Stanley, professional endurance athlete and motivational speaker, will be on hand teaching recovery strategies, and later in the day, stop by and visit Greg Meyer, the last American winner of the Boston Marathon,  for an interactive clinic highlighting running and proper nutrition.

Day two of the expo begins at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 18th,  and offers advice from Olympic athletes and Philadelphia area race experts. The morning begins with a question-and-answer series featuring two-time Olympic champion Derartu Tulu, as well as 2004 Olympic champion Meseret Defar. Prepare yourself to participate in next year’s race by learning ‘how to prepare to race’ during an open forum with Mario Fraioli, former cross-country All-American at Stonehill College, running coach and expert on training, injury prevention, and equipment. And if you weren’t able to make Friday’s events, Sarah Stanley and Greg Meyer will be hosting their events again on Saturday.

For more information, check out the Health Expo website.  All venues and times are subject to change.