September 2025 Archive – Quick Hits on Gear, Shoes, Fuel & Flat Tummy

Hey there, sports lover! September was busy at Abbey Angels. We broke down where your gear is built, tested a skate shoe on the track, gave marathon runners a simple food cheat‑sheet, and put together a 7‑day plan to shrink belly bloat. Below you’ll find the highlights and the most useful takeaways you can use right now.

Where Is Most Sports Equipment Made?

First up, we mapped the world’s sports gear factories. China still leads the pack, cranking out everything from basketballs to yoga mats. But Vietnam and Mexico are catching up fast, especially for mid‑range price items. We also spotlighted a handful of boutique factories in Portugal and the Czech Republic that focus on high‑quality, eco‑friendly gear. The takeaway? If you care about price, look for Chinese‑made basics; if you want premium feel and lower carbon footprints, explore European makers.

Are Vans Good for Running?

Can you lace up a pair of Vans and hit the pavement? Short answer: not for serious runs. Vans shine on smooth surfaces and short sprints, but they lack the cushioning and arch support needed for mileage. We gave you a side‑by‑side table comparing Vans to popular road shoes, showing splash‑proof soles, heel drop, and weight differences. If you only run a mile or two for fun, they’ll do. For longer sessions, stick with shoes designed for running—your knees will thank you.

Do Marathon Runners Eat a Lot? How to Fuel 26.2 Miles

Marathon runners often wonder how much food they need. The truth is it’s not about massive meals but about timing and balance. We broke down daily calorie targets (roughly 2,800‑3,200 for most adults), macro ratios (55% carbs, 20% protein, 25% fat), and a simple carb‑loading schedule three days before race day. On race day, aim for 30‑60 g of carbs every hour—think a banana, a sports gel, or a small sandwich. Post‑run, grab protein within 30 minutes to kickstart recovery. Follow the guide and you’ll avoid the dreaded "wall".

How to Slim Your Stomach in 7 Days

Looking for a flatter belly fast? We put together a realistic 7‑day plan that targets bloating, not just weight loss. Day 1 starts with a water‑flush and cutting out salty snacks. Days 2‑4 add low‑FODMAP meals, plenty of leafy greens, and a 15‑minute core circuit (plank, bird‑dog, and glute bridges). Day 5 introduces a probiotic smoothie to balance gut bacteria. The final two days focus on consistency—keep carbs moderate, stay hydrated, and finish each workout with a 5‑minute stretch. Most users see a noticeable reduction in waistline without crash diets.

That’s the September roundup in a nutshell. Dive deeper into any of these topics on our site, and keep the sports conversation going. Got a question? Drop a comment or join our community forum—there’s always someone ready to share a tip.