Eurosport managing director Christina Peresso. Photo: Matthew Mirabelli

Sports retailer Eurosport is taking an innovative stand against Malta’s legendary laziness by encouraging staff and customers to use an in-store treadmill during shopping hours.

The move comes just one day after a Eurobarometer survey found that 75 per cent of Maltese never do anything to keep fit and only five per cent practise any sport on a daily basis.

Experts say that lack of exercise is a major contributor to obesity and highly recommend walking for as little as 30 minutes on alternate days.

With this in mind, Eurosport staff members will be completing a half-marathon (21.1km) each week, by taking it in turns to use the treadmill every Saturday throughout the month of April.

Customers will also be encouraged to help out and will be rewarded with a 15 per cent discount if they walk or run a total of one kilometre.

As part of the Run With Us campaign, an in-store treadmill will be set up at Eurosport’s main outlets in Birkirkara, Paola, Adidas Baystreet and Adidas The Point, Sliema.

Endurance athlete Nathan Farrugia will also be visiting the stores to offer his expert advice and exercise tips to Eurosport staff and customers.

Eurosport managing director Christina Peresso said: “The Maltese are often ranked among the laziest and most obese, which compelled us to think of ways to encourage people to have more active lifestyles.”

So, instead of preaching about the importance of exercise, everyone on the team has agreed to roll up their sleeves and lead by example, she added.

“We really hope our customers also dare to break a sweat, even if just to try out their new pair of running shoes before leaving the shop.”

For information on the Run With Us campaign, visit Eurosport’s website and Facebook page on www.eurosport.com.mt/runwithus and www.facebook.com/eurosportmalta.