You see NPL online. You see NPL on Dis-Chem Pharmacy shelves. But we always want more than that. We want to meet the Yellow Army where it matters.

 

On Saturday, 18 April 2026, our second annual Yellow Army Trail Run brought over 250 runners to the start line at Syringa Park, Avianto Estate. Despite a good amount of rain the night before and a chilly start to the morning, the Yellow Army was not deterred, and we saw our soldiers brave the muddy trails with smiles on their faces.

 

Participants came alone, as couples, as whole families with young kids, and we even spotted a few dogs on the starting line. Runners could choose between three routes, 8km, 5km trail, or a 2.5km walk. Anyone who wants to get fit and get moving was welcome. 

 

If you are looking for more community-centred running events in Johannesburg for all fitness levels, the NPL trail run is something to look into. 

Just like our all-ladies event, FemmeFit Fest, the Yellow Army Trail Run follows the same thinking. Movement is for everyone, no matter your fitness level. 

 

On-site food vendors at Syringa Park added to the relaxed, social feel as family and friends came through to support runners, even on a chilly Saturday morning, with plenty of runners heading over after for a late breakfast and a few drinks. 

 

For anyone looking for trail running in Johannesburg, a scenic route and some fresh air at Syringa Park, Avianto Estate is a great way to start the weekend. You also get the chance to meet other members of the Yellow Army, which is what makes these events worth showing up for. 

Keep it simple with a balanced, familiar meal the night before. Focus on slow-release carbohydrates and avoid anything too heavy or high in fat.  

 

Most importantly, go to bed hydrated. Many runners start race morning already behind on fluids without realising it. 

 

If you are prone to cramping or training in warmer conditions, this is also a good time to support your hydration with electrolytes. Products like Hydrade Cramp Aid can help restore key minerals lost through sweat and support muscle function going into race day. 

Give yourself enough time to eat before you run. A light meal or snack about 60 to 90 minutes before the start works well for most people. Think a banana, toast with peanut butter or a Hydrade Fuel Bar. 

 

As always, we made sure to bring the fuel for our army. Runners were encouraged to take advantage of our pre-race hydration station stocked with pre-mixed Hydrade Rapid Isotonic. Stimulant-free with fast-acting carbohydrates and added electrolytes, Rapid Isotonic is a simple way to top up energy and hydration before a short-distance trail run. 

 

As runners crossed the finish line, each person received a free NPL bottle with a Rapid Isotonic sachet and a Hydrade Isotonic Sports Drink to help kickstart recovery. For distances like 5km to 8km, this is more than enough. 

Recovery is where a lot of people fall short. Your body needs to restore energy levels and rehydrate properly after your run. 

 

Regarding hydration, you lose more fluid than you think on a trail where effort fluctuates with the terrain. Replacing electrolytes helps restore balance and supports recovery. 

 

Hydrade Hydrolytes is a sugar-free electrolyte blend containing sodium, magnesium, potassium and phosphorus, along with coconut water powder for natural hydration support. It helps restore fluid balance, reduce the risk of cramps and support recovery without adding unnecessary sugar. 

 

Hydrade Rapid Isotonic can also be used post-run to quickly replenish both fluids and energy if needed. 

If you have only ever run on pavements or a treadmill, trail running is worth trying at least once. Road running is predictable, with a flat and consistent surface. It is great for building a base, but it can become repetitive. 

 

Trail running brings a different kind of challenge. Uneven terrain, elevation changes and natural obstacles force your body to adapt in real time, making even shorter distances feel more demanding. 

We are passionate about our community because it is made up of people who show up for their health and fitness goals. Everyone wants to feel better, move better and be part of something bigger. 

 

A community trail run may look like a fun event from the outside, but it plays an important role. It creates a space for people looking for consistency, connection and a support system while working on themselves. 

 

Now 11 years in, the Yellow Army continues to grow. We see people from different backgrounds, professions and fitness journeys show up, each with their own reason for being there. And we will keep showing up too. 

 

If you joined us at this year's run, welcome to the Yellow Army. Make sure you are following us on Instagram @npl_international and on Facebook at Nutritional Performance Labs so you are the first to know about what is coming next. We will see you at the starting line at the next NPL trail run.