Food writer, Imogen Byers, took a trip down to Cardiff City House of Sport to check out Wales’ largest health and fitness event.

I had no idea what to expect when offering to write a review on the ÔÇÿEat Well: Live WellÔÇÖ event , ÔÇÿCardiffÔÇÖs largest Health, Nutrition and Fitness ExhibitionÔÇÖ held at Cardiff City House of Sport. ┬áI was picturing either a large hall packed with topless bodybuilders showing off chiseled abs, or a room full of vegans that only drink juice. Needless to say, I had got it completely wrong.

Upon arrival, we were greeted with goody bags that contained a bunch ┬áof leaflets from the keen exhibitionists, some water (every healthy personÔÇÖs vice) and some samples as well as a program of the daysÔÇÖ talks and demonstrations.┬á The hall was large and spacious and could have easily been much busier, with a large workshop/ demonstration area in the middle and stands from the exhibitions and caterers dotted around it. There was even an indoor climbing tower in the corner, free for all attendees to try out.

The stands were run by a variety of different companies, ranging from holistic therapies, paleo snacks, personal trainers and fitness bloggers. There was even a stand promoting ÔÇÿraw chocolateÔÇÖ which, after scoffing down a ÔÇÿslightly-more-than-subtleÔÇÖ amount of the available tasters, I can confirm was delicious. The line-up for the central stage area included a variety of acts such as an impressive cooking demonstration by Michelin star chef James Sommerin, fitness workshops and juicing presentations, as well as talks from the exhibitionists and personal trainers, explaining their take on a healthy lifestyle.

The event seemed to run smoothly, though some of the exhibitionists were disappointed by the small turn out. I found it very interesting, but with the various protein shakes and herbal supplements costing over the typical student budget, may just have to join the healthy lifestyle brigade by ensuring I eat my five-a-day. If raw chocolate is on the menu however, it would be rude not to.