Running Analysis: Interview with Mario Ebner

Triathlon pro Mario Ebner on the subject of "Running"

We asked Mario Ebner, deputy shop manager in Villach and enthusiastic triathlete, a few questions about the popular topic of "Running". We would like to introduce our employees, who are experts in certain fields, to our customers and thus create added value for our sports-enthusiastic customers.

Mario, you are a triathlete - what times do you run, swim or cycle?

My personal best time in the Ironman long distance is 10 hours 30 minutes. That means 1.5 hours swimming (3.8 km), 5.5 hours cycling (180 km) and 3.5 hours running (42.2 km). But a competition is not a request concert, a best time is not always possible. On top of that, I'm also a bad swimmer.

How often do you train and what are your tricks?

At the moment I train according to my mood, as I am not preparing for any competition. Otherwise, according to the training plan, about 10 - 15 hours per week. But it's not just the amount that matters, but also the quality of the training. It makes no sense to go running when you are tired. It is better to use this day for moderate strength training or rest for the next day.

How important is the role of the right equipment?

Runners often forget that with every step, 3 times their body weight acts on their knees and hips. At 80 kg body weight, depending on the running speed, up to 240 kg (!) of impact forces act on the body. A running shoe lasts about 1,000 km, a very light competition shoe often only half that. Therefore, it is important to change shoes regularly, even if they still look like new. You should also not forget running socks, sports glasses, a heart rate monitor and functional clothing.

What influence does the right shoe have on running performance?

A shoe must fit the runner. Not only body weight plays a role here, but also the running style. It should also be clarified whether there are any foot misalignments that a good running shoe can largely compensate for.

How does a foot analysis work and what added value does it offer?

The foot analysis is an essential part of the running shoe consultation. The foot is measured on both sides using a 3D scanner, so you have length and width, height and circumference at a glance and you can also see any misalignments. The advantage is that customers are specifically advised on their foot shape and do not have to try out a large number of shoe models.

What costs and time expenditure should you expect?

At Intersport, we offer our customers a free foot analysis when they buy a running shoe. The measurement and analysis only takes 2 - 3 minutes. So it's definitely faster than trying on a myriad of unsuitable shoes beforehand. The customer also receives a recommendation for a so-called "fit insole", which represents added value for many runners.

What innovations are in store for us in the running shoe sector? 

Manufacturers are trying to make running even easier and more energy-saving through various sole technologies. This means that you can run a longer distance with the same amount of effort, an e-bike for your feet, so to speak. But you also notice that the shoes are getting lighter from year to year, without losing damping properties and stability.

What is your most frequent advice to your customers?

You shouldn't buy shoes according to color, but according to fit. And always try them on with the right running socks so that you develop a real feeling.

What praise do you get most often?

Customers appreciate that you take the time for them. This is apparently no longer a matter of course in our hectic times.

Do you have dissatisfied customers? If so, why?

It can always happen that the shoe doesn't fit. That's why Intersport Pilz has the "fit guarantee". This means that our customers can exchange the shoe, even if they have already run with it once. Often it's just small things, such as missing running socks, that restrict the fit.

Where would you like to develop further in terms of sport?

Competitions are not planned at the moment. But I'm still trying to maintain my fitness and I'm happy about every training session.

Thanks for the interview!