City2Surf Race Week: Five Product Mistakes Worth Avoiding
Race morning is an excellent time to use things you already know.
It is a poor time to discover that your new socks rub, your breakfast does not agree with you or a strongly scented topical product feels much more intense than expected.
City2Surf takes place on Sunday 9 August 2026, covering 14 kilometres from the Sydney CBD to Bondi.
Whether you plan to race, jog, walk or combine all three, familiarity is useful.
The race-week answer
Do not introduce a new topical product on race morning.
Patch test it first. Use it during the week under ordinary conditions. Read the label. Know how the product feels and where it should not be applied.
A product should never distract you from the basics: pacing, appropriate clothing, hydration access, food you tolerate and sensible preparation.
Mistake 1: trying a strong sensory product for the first time on Sunday
The Magnesium Relief Roller contains ingredients including wintergreen, menthol and eucalyptus.
That creates a noticeable aromatic, warming and cooling sensory experience. Some customers actively prefer that. Others may find it stronger than expected.
Race week is the time to learn which category you belong to.
Apply a small amount to an appropriate area earlier in the week. Follow the label and assess how your skin responds.
Do not assume that more product will create a better experience.
Mistake 2: applying it to the face, temples or near the eyes
The Relief Roller is intended for targeted application to suitable areas such as calves, legs or shoulders.
It should not be used:
- on the face or temples
- near the eyes
- on broken, freshly shaved or irritated skin
- under tight occlusive coverings
- with an external heat source
Remember that sweat can move product. Wash your hands after application and avoid touching your eyes.
Mistake 3: applying an unfamiliar product underneath external heat
Heat packs, heated clothing and hot showers can change how strongly a warming or cooling product feels.
Do not combine the Relief Roller with external heat.
On a cold Sydney morning, it may be tempting to apply multiple warming products and then layer up heavily. More sensation is not the goal.
Mistake 4: applying product over damaged skin
Longer runs and walks can produce friction, blisters, chafing and irritated skin.
Do not apply topical magnesium products over broken or irritated areas.
Assess the skin first. If the area is damaged, deal with the skin issue appropriately rather than covering it with another product.
Mistake 5: expecting a roller to solve a race-preparation problem
A roller cannot compensate for:
- starting far too quickly
- wearing new shoes
- ignoring an injury
- under-fuelling
- poor sleep opportunity
- doing a last-minute hard training session
As a musculoskeletal and sports injury specialist, Pierre’s practical view is that products should complement a sound plan rather than persuade someone to ignore warning signs.
Persistent, severe, worsening, unexplained or unusual symptoms should be assessed by a qualified healthcare professional.
A sensible City2Surf product checklist
| Before race week | Race morning | After the event |
|---|---|---|
| Patch test unfamiliar products | Use only familiar products | Check the skin before applying anything |
| Test clothing and shoes | Follow the product label | Eat, drink and change out of damp clothing |
| Practise breakfast and timing | Use a small, appropriate amount | Seek assessment for concerning symptoms |
Where the Relief Roller fits
The Magnesium Relief Roller suits customers who want:
- a portable format
- targeted rather than broad application
- a pronounced warming and cooling sensory experience
- a product that fits into a work, travel or training bag
It may not suit someone who dislikes strong aromas or sensory products.
Customers wanting an unscented option for broader areas may prefer the Magnesium Oil Spray.
Pierre’s three race-week talking points
Suggested founder-to-camera talking points:
- Do not test new shoes, new food and new products on the same morning.
- A strong sensory feeling is not proof that a product is fixing an injury.
- Persistent or unusual pain deserves assessment, not another layer of product.
Bottom line
Race-week product use should be familiar, labelled and uneventful.
Test before Sunday. Use a suitable amount. Keep strongly scented products away from sensitive areas and external heat. Do not use any product to mask a problem that needs attention.
View the Relief Roller application details
Keep reading
- DOMS vs Injury Soreness: How to Tell
- Tight Calves and Feet After Running
- Gym-Bag Recovery Kit Essentials
General information only and not medical advice. Individual experiences vary. If you have a medical condition, are pregnant or breastfeeding, take medication, or are unsure whether a product is suitable for you, check with a qualified healthcare professional before use. Always follow the product label and patch test topical products before first use.
