"When you arise in the morning, think what a privelege it is to be alive; the breath, to think, to enjoy, to love"
-Marcus Aurelius
WEBSITE: Start your day the healthy way! http://www.womenshealthmag.com/fitness/healthy-breakfast-ideas?cm_mmc=Newsletter-_-2010_Sep_15-_-Dose-_-readon
I finally broke down and went to a running store to get fitted for a running shoe that meets my needs. It was such a fun afternoon (yes, I am a huge running nerd and had way too much fun there!) She had me take off my shoes and get on the treadmill while she watched my feet to see how I walked. She then brought my size in each brand they carried because every brand makes different shoes-for example, Nike is more of an air cushioning while Asics have a firmer support. They let me try on all the shoes, get on the treadmill and even run around the building on the pavement outside. I absolutely love the pair I decided on and have been worth the extra money I spent to get the right fit!
I am kind of a Asics fanatic, mostly out of loyalty. They were the brand I started running on and have stuck true to them ever sense. As I said, Asics don't have as pillow-y of a feel but are a firm support for your foot. They are narrow in the heel and flare out in the toe in order to allow room for your feet. Whatever shoe you choose, running shoes should be an entire size bigger than your foot size to allow your foot to have room to move without jamming into the front of the shoe (I promise, you will start to feel it on long distances). My foot is a 5 1/2 so I go ahead and get the 6 1/2 and I have room to move in the way I need.
Pronation is completely normal, and is the movement of the foot rolling inward when you land. While most people stop at a very healthy point, overpronation can lead to serious injuries. Wondering if you have an overpronation problem? Look at your current tennis shoes from a flat surface and examine the heel. If it tilts inward then you are likely to be overpronating. Many shoes (especially motion-controlled shoes) are built to counter this movement. Asics have a Duomax, the grey support on the inner arch, but all brands have similar things built in. I have always bought shoes that have that inner arch support only to find out I am in the minority and don't pronate at all but actually walk on the outer sides of my feet. Glad I went to the store!!
Cushioned Shoes. Runners who have little pronation problems, high arches, efficient strides, and are forefoot strikers will benefit most from cushioned shoes. They provide maximum support in the midsole and minimum arch-side support.
Motion Control Shoes. These shoes give you the maximum support on the arch and rearfoot control so they are ideal for moderate-severe overpronation. They are supportive and durable for bigger runners or those with flat feet.
Performance Training Shoes. These are light and well-balanced designed for speedwork and racing. If you are fast and efficient (not at all me) then these are great for your training schedule.
Racing Shoes. These are fast, lightweight shoes especially designed for races. Be careful if you select these, they are not best for people with any current injuries and should be used by seasoned runners with large, efficient strides.
Stability Shoes. These are for those who need arch support and midsole conditioning. They are ideal for support and durability and for those with mild-moderate overpronation.
Trail Shoes. These are built low to the ground for stability on trail-type terrains. Runners benefit from these for off-road runs due to their outsole traction and water resistant qualities.
You don't have to spend loads of money to have a really, really nice pair of shoes. Just know your body and your feet and make an informed decision on what you choose!
Megan!
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