fitness shoes

GUIDELINES FOR BUYING

FITNESS SHOES

Inappropriate use of bad fitting or poorly designed footwear can lead to discomfort and potential injury. Always wear a fitness shoe designed for the type of activity you are doing. You wouldn't go hiking in a pair of sandals so make sure you wear the proper shoe when you work out too.

The way your feet touch the ground and the movement of your feet vary from activity to activity so shoes are specifically made for different activities. For example, running shoes are suited for running and running only because they do not have the lateral movement support needed for group fitness classes. The mechanics of walking are quite different from those of running and the impact is equal to only 1½ times body weight compared to 3 times body weight in running. Shoes used for group fitness classes should be flexible, especially in the forefoot for lateral and jumping movements. A stiff shoe can cause foot injuries. Cross trainer shoes offer support and cushioning and can be used for multiple gym activities such as weight training and fitness machines.

When shopping for new fitness shoes follow the guidelines below:

*Your shoe size can increase up to ½ a size because of swelling and soft tissue expansion throughout the day so try shoes on toward the end of the day for a better fit.

*Choose a shoe store with trained personnel. Make sure they measure both feet in width and length as most people do not have identically matched feet.

*If the shoe doesn’t feel right in the store, don’t buy it. If it fits, it fits right the first time you wear it. Athletic shoes should not be expected to stretch or get more comfortable. There is no “break in” period.

*You should assimilate movements of the particular activity you are buying the shoes for in the store. If they are for running, run around a little in the store, if they are for step class then do a few grapevines or lateral-type movements, etc.

*Compare one brand of shoe to another by placing one on the right foot and a different one on the left foot. Test the flexibility of the shoes by rolling up on the toes. If your heels slip out the back of the shoes, the shoe doesn’t fit properly.

*Test forefoot cushioning by jumping up and down on the toes. Test rearfoot cushioning by running on your heels. Test lateral stability by standing up on one foot and twisting your foot side to side while balancing on your opposite foot. Your feet should not slip form side to side in the shoe.

*If the shoe has variable-width lacing, experiment with the narrow and wide eyelets to get a better custom fit.

*Ask the salesperson to check the wear pattern of your old exercise shoes. This might help them to recommend appropriate shoes.

*The best shoe for you is one that fits YOUR foot. A shoe that works for someone else may not be right for you. If the shoe does not fit properly, it will never perform properly and will cause discomfort and potential injury.

*If you exercise regularly, invest in 2 pairs of shoes and switch off each time you exercise. Alternating shoes lets them dry out completely between workouts so they will last longer. But don’t dry them out with a hair dryer or heater as this can damage the shoes’ insides. And only wear workout shoes at the gym to keep them from wearing out faster.

*Finally, remember—you get what you pay for. All that “extra stuff” has its purpose. A more expensive shoe is well worth the money in terms of safety and comfort. Whether you feel pain in your feet, calves, knees, hips, back or neck can all the be the result of an improperly fitted or poorly made shoe. Invest in at least one good pair of workout shoes or you may end up paying for doctor visits because of injuries related to your shoes. At the first sign of discomfort, think about your shoes because even though they may look brand new on the outside it’s the inner makings of the shoe that matters.