If you have resolved to finally get serious about your fitness in 2013 and plan to hit the gym, walking track, or even the treadmill the good news is you may need to go shopping- even if your other resolution to cut down on shopping sprees.
Rest assured that shopping for the appropriate exercise shoes is a sound investment in your fitness, because wearing the wrong shoes while exercising can result in serious aches and pains, especially in the joints.
Here are some tips to help you select the right trainers:
- It is important to know your foot type when you buy a pair of trainers; to determine your arch type and whether your feet are flat or if they tends towards over-or under-pronation take the ‘wet test’ – soak your feet in water, step on a piece of brown paper and trace your footprint.
- There are different shoes for different activities so choose the right one. Walking shoes are stiff, while running shoes are flexible so as to handle greater impact. Cross trainers are best suited to aerobics, weight training and other exercises that required side to side motion.
- Have your foot measured before buying the new pair of trainers. A small sized shoe will stress never endings and veins in your feet, making your toes numb.
- Go shoe shopping at the end of the day because feet swell over the course of the day and while you run or walk; this will ensure your shoes are the right size and comfortable. Take your gym socks or orthotics along when you go shopping.
- Trainers should not have to be ‘broken into; they should feel comfortable from the first step. Your heels should fit snugly but the toes should have room to wiggle.
- Don’t exercise in worn out trainers; the impact of your feet hitting the ground travels straights to your joints, leading to aches and pains. Expert says the average pair of ‘active’ running shoes should be replaced after every 30-400 miles of use.
By Adi Abdurab