Cape Gazette - Ask the Trainer
Sign up for Antonio's newsletter
Antonio's Personal Training Systems
Click here for ask the trainer
ARCHIVES
Ask the TrainerChris Antonio

Sign up for Antonio's newsletter by submitting your email address above and receive training articles, news, results and upcoming events.

10-18-08// The Best Running Shoe
What type of running shoe is best?

Chris:
I've been working out all winter in anticipation for warmer weather and the opportunity to do outdoor activities. I do my weight training workouts in the gym but run outside whenever the weather permits. Last year my outdoor workouts consisted of only brisk walking but recently I have begun jogging. Everything has been going well except I've experienced some mild pain in my shins and feet. My doctor says everything is ok but recommended that I get some new shoes to reduce the impact of my workouts. First of all I just bought new workout shoes last year. Secondly how do I choose a running shoe? What type of running shoe do you think is the best? A friend of mine recommended Asics. What is you're opinion of this particular type of shoe?

Trina

Trina:

In my opinion there are 2 things you can never spend too much money on and that's you're mattress and you're shoes.

Think about it half of you're life is spent depending on the comfort and support of each of these two items. If you're more concerned about saving money I hope you develop a high tolerance for pain because you're going to need it. An old wiseman once said, "You get what you pay for" and I believe this statement applies directly to you're question.

The good news is in today's day and age there is no excuse for not having the proper footwear to help you get a great workout while protecting you're feet.

The bad news is you'll have to figure the mattress part out on your own.

Most shoe companies offer a running shoe specifically designed to be comfortable, light in weight and help reduce impact. A good shoe could be the difference between successful workouts and nagging injuries that prevent you from getting in shape.

There are many good running shoes out there to choose from such as Nike, Brooks, Saucony, Asics and New Balance to name a few.

The difficult part is figuring out what shoe is right for you.

I never recommend any particular type of shoe because everyone's feet are different. Some people have flat feet and some have high arches. Some people have narrow feet while others feet are wide. I've even trained people with feet that are 2 different shapes and sizes. Therefore recommending a particular type of shoe would be like telling you everyone should fit into the same size t- shirt. It's just not true.

My recommendation would be to find an expert that will evaluate you're feet and fit you with a shoe based on the shape of you're feet.

Some shoe stores now offer this service you just have to find them. These stores are equipped with treadmills and cameras. They'll film you running or walking and decide which shoe is best for you based on you're individual needs.

I firmly believe that finding the right shoe will reduce some of you're aches and pains and help keep you injury free.

It's also important to remember if you're doing some type of cardiovascular training 3-4 times a week you'll probably need to replace you're running shoes every 4-5 months despite the added cost. Trust me it will be worth the investment.

Back to newsletter

Site by Yellow House Design