If you are a frequent runner it is important to wear the correct shoes.
You may be tempted to throw on any pair of trainers and head straight outdoors, however
not all sneakers are designed for running.
Wearing the wrong shoe may hamper performance and even increase injury to the lower limbs
such as arthritic joint damage.
Hi viewers and welcome back to Bestie!
Most people don't realize the importance of investing in good shoes, especially for running.
And in today's video we will tell you why.
From preventing injuries, better performance to providing arch support and more, watch
till the end to learn about all of them.
1.
Prevent injury: In many cases, running shoes can help prevent certain types of injury.
In fact, it is suggested that the middle cushioning and arch support can prevent overuse injuries,
such as tendonitis, stress fractures and joint pain.
Though barefoot running -- running without foot covering -- has increased in popularity
over the past few years, the risk for cuts and scrapes is high.
The outside protection offered by the shoes reduces injury to the feet.
Have you ever been injured because of bad running shoes?
Tell us quickly down below in the comments section!
2.
Prevent Sore Feet And Blisters: If you wear any other kind of shoes while running, you
will end up with blisters on your feet.
Even picking the wrong type of sock can make your running experience worse.
For example, cotton socks are a major taboo among runners because they cause friction.
If something as seemingly inconsequential as socks can have such a huge impact on your
feet, think about what the wrong shoes can do.
3.
Improves performance: Good quality running shoes provide a well-shaped, snug fit customized
to your feet.
They also make your feet feel lighter as you run.
When you are not wearing the right shoes, your heels rub creating blisters.
This is not the case when you've got the correct running shoes.
Also, choosing the best pair for you comes down to pronation.
Pronation simply means the degree your foot rotates the inside during your run.
All runners fall into two categories: some have too much pronation which means their
feet rotate too much while running, and some don't have enough.
That's why it is important to visit a shoe store that specifically sells running shoes.
These days many sports stores offer in-store assistance.
Their staff is generally quite knowledgeable, and they will even let you run around in the
shoes before making the final purchasing decision.
4.
Better Fit: Good running shoes will provide one thing: a snug and well-shaped fit that
is tailored to your foot as much as possible.
They will also make your foot feel lighter because of how well it takes to the shape
of your foot.
The problem that is cause by rubbing of your heel against the wrong kind of shoe won't
happen when you get the right pair of running shoes.
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5.
Midsole Foot Cushioning: Midsole cushioning is one of the most important benefits of running
shoes.
As suggested by the name, the midsole is the area between the ball and heel of the foot.
The foot cushioning provided by running shoes can reduce some of the stress placed on the
heel, ankles and toes during a run.
This makes the activity more comfortable and safer.
Appropriate cushioning can also help prevent knee, hip and back pain, as it improves body
mechanics.
6.
Arch Support: Arch support is a must for individuals with flat feet -- especially if they participate4
in regular exercise.
Runners with flat feet should consult a physical or exercise therapist for recommendations.
While flat-footed runners may experience greatest benefit from the arch stability, even those
with high arches can benefit from the right kind of support.
Moving on, let's give you a few tips on how to buy running shoes:
1.
Choose a Running-Specific Shoe: Running Shoes may look like other sneakers, but they contain
specialized technology to help you run.
In running, your foot hits the ground in basically the same way with each step.
Unlike sneakers, running shoes are designed to prevent injury from that repetitive motion
by offering specific cushioning to aid in shock absorption.
They also have design features to help move you forward with greater ease.
Choose the Right Type of Running Shoe: Running shoes are designed with specific purposes
in mind.
You should choose your running shoes based on what kind of running you want to do.
Everyday running shoes are usually the most versatile option.
They can handle all the running that most people generally do.
They are also the most durable.
The next ones are lightweight running shoes.
These are best for faster workouts or races.
Although they are less durable and less cushioned than everyday shoes.
Finally there are Trail Running Shoes.
These are best for running on dirt and rocky trails.
They have lugs on the bottom which provide better grip on dirt and rocks.
They typically have a more durable upper.
Know What You're Paying For: When it comes to running shoes, a higher price tag usually
correlates with more technology and comfort features.
But that doesn’t mean you have to buy the most expensive shoes in order to enjoy a run.
In a similar vein, opting for a very inexpensive pair may mean that the shoes aren't designed
with running in mind and may not hold up to the demands that running places on them.
Quality running shoes generally range from about $100 to $250.
You should expect to pay in the $110 to $150 price range for running shoes that are very
well suited to most runners’ daily needs.
Consider Your Current Level Of Fitness And Future Fitness Goals: Even if you are not
training for a marathon and don’t have a distance in mind, it’s important to understand
how you have used your shoes in the past and what you want to use them for in the future.
If you are a new runner, you should consider shoes that are a little more protective because
you’re probably still figuring out your form and want to reduce the risk of injury.
On the other hand, if you have regularly been running 10-20 km a week, you should consider
shoes that are designed for more stability and performance.
Your Stride While Running: According to the experts, understanding your running style
and gait is the most crucial thing you can do when buying new shoes.
Running starts with your feet, so if your lower body is already misaligned, each step
becomes a potential opportunity for injury.
Wearing the right shoes that are properly aligned with your feet sets you off on the
right path for lasting and healthy training.
Consult with a podiatrist, physical therapist, or running shoe expert to get your gait analyzed.
They will tell you whether you are a neutral, under pronated, or overpronated runner.
With good running shoes, you can reap all of the benefits of running.
Learn more about all of them by watching “Run Every Day And See What Happens To Your Body”
Now, back to Why Good Running Shoes Are Important And How To Buy The Perfect Ones
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when buying running shoes:
Buying for looks: Some people are too concerned with fashion, and they should steer away from
that when buying running shoes.
Often, when they get a shoe that looks cool, they might end up getting hurt, well physically
of course because of the shoes.
When you buy, think feel and fit, not fashion.
Not asking for deals: When you’re ready to pay, ask if there are any discounts available
for running club members.
Most specialty stores offer discounts from 10 to 20 percent; some also offer special
discounts to their local track club.
Buying shoes that are too small: Tight-fitting shoes lead to blisters and black toenails.
This may apply to some women who can be more susceptible or self-conscious about the size
of their feet.
Play the piano with your toes, meaning the fit should be roomy enough—about half an
inch—but not sloppy.
Shopping at the wrong time of day: A lot of times you may buy shoes in the morning and
realize that they are too small in the evening.
This is because your feet start swelling in the morning and they don’t stop until about
4 p.m.
That’s as big as they’re going to get, so always buy your shoes in the evening.
Assuming your size: People assume that a size is a size—that an 8 in a Nike will be the
same as an 8 in a New Balance.
But sizes differ because of different foot forms and the way the shoe is stitched together.
Have your feet measured every time you buy, and always try the shoes on for fit.
While running in the correct shoes can be very beneficial for your body, you won’t
get all the benefits without coupling it with a proper diet.
Learn more about the healthiest foods you should eat by watching:
50 Healthiest Foods That You Should Eat Regularly Or
20 Nutritious Foods You Should Be Eating Every Day
So go ahead and watch one or both of these videos for maximum benefits.
What’s your favourite heart healthy activity?
Let us know in the comments section below!