The importance of running shoes.
There is no piece of running equipment that is more important that your shoes. Having a good pair of shoes that fit you well and that are in good shape makes a big difference in your comfort and form. Modern running shoes are build to help support your legs and feet to aid in lessening the impact on your joints and muscles which will get you running longer more comfortably and recovering faster afterwards. There are a lot of different brands and styles (not just colors, but how they react with your feet) to select from and it can be a bit overwhelming. The best place to start is at a good running store. First off, they will carry the most trusted brands of running specific shoes, and secondly, the staff are very knowledgeable about what models are made for what style of running. They are usually avid runners themselves and can give you fantastic advice about running gear and local races and much more.
It all starts with the fit. When you go to purchase a new pair of running shoes, be prepared to try on a few pairs and actually run in them. The staff will ask you about your experience level and what you plan to use the shoes for (casual training, 5K, marathon, trail, etc) and then observe you running on a treadmill to see if you need extra support for feet that turn slightly in or out. Then they will have you try the models that best match your level, goals, and running style. The key is to choose with your feet, meaning that you want to pick the shoes that feel the best regardless of how they look. I know we all want to look the best when we are out on the running path cruising along, but it is more important to have shoes that fit well and help you reach your fitness goals then ones that look great but leave your legs and feet sore and blistered after each run.
You should get new shoes about every six months if you run consistently, or at least once a year if you are casual runner. If you can't remember when you bought the shoes that you are running in now, you should probably get a new pair. You will be surprised how much better a good and new pair of shoes will feel on your runs.
There are now quite a few great running stores to choose from. Listed are a few of my favorites:
No comments:
Post a Comment