The new year may have you focused on some new fitness goals. To help achieve your goals, it is important, if not imperative, to use the right equipment. A fundamental piece of exercise equipment is the proper shoe. At the Sports Medicine Center we treat many athletes with lower body injuries related to exercise and sporting activities. Unfortunately in the recipe for overuse injury, one key problem tends to be the wrong footwear. So how does one go about finding the right running shoe?
To begin with, consider the right shoe a small investment, knowing that the right investment will reap big rewards. Purchasing shoes at a local running specialty store, or online site is important. Name brand shoes from department stores and discount retailers are often composed of slightly different materials than those of the same brands sold by running-specialty retailers. The economy version running shoes, found at discount and department stores, are often made of slightly different materials that are typically less durable. So, if you are committed to getting the most of your shoe investment, and your fitness goals, do yourself a favor and seek the optimal shoe for you.
And how does one know what is the best shoe amongst the hundreds of styles, colors, and comfort-guaranteed gizmos that compose a running shoe? Well, fortunately, all of the bells and whistles really boil down to three or four basic running shoe styles that each company then individualizes. These styles include: neutral cushioned shoes (for the lightweight performance runner); stability shoes (beneficial for most runners); and motion control styles (for the low-arched, flexible foot, or heavier runner).
Depending on your level of experience, there are a number of ways to make an informed decision. Certainly the Internet can offer loads of information regarding shoe styles and even how to help determine your running style. But ultimately, receiving individualized attention to your needs and foot type is best. Local running shoe stores can be helpful and offer a variety of brands for you to try. But for expert advice in these decisions, consider pursuing an evaluation and shoe wear prescription here at the Sports Medicine Center’s
Runners’ Clinic. This experience will provide you insight into your lower body posture and alignment, foot type, and basic information about your running style. This is the type of information that can optimize your shoe purchase and give you a strong start for achieving your 2010 fitness goals.
For more information about the Froedtert Sports Medicine Center’s Runners’ Clinic
visit our site or call 414-805-8602.
Information submitted and provided by Carrie Truebenbach, MSPT. Thank you, Carrie!
The following are comments received for this blog post:
What are your thoughts on the new Five Fingers shoes made by Vibram? I'm thinking about getting a pair but worry about the lack of cushion.
- Steve P.