Choose a sports shoe that's appropriate for the activity.
Selecting an appropriate pair of sports shoes is an important first step in any fitness or athletic routine. The right pair of shoes will not only protect and cushion your feet, ankles and knees, they will also help you to get the most out of your workouts. Unlike some other types of shoes, athletic shoes don't require a breaking in period and should feel comfortable on your feet right away. Finding the right pair may take some time and effort, but you'll appreciate the investment the next time you slip on your shoes and head for the gym.
Instructions
1. Pick a sport. Before you even walk into an athletic store, know how you plan to use your shoes. The type of shoe you'll need for trail running is very different from the type of shoe you'll need for walking on a treadmill at the gym or the type of shoe you'll need to play basketball. If you're going to be using your shoes for a particular purpose, make sure the sales consultant knows this before you start trying on shoes.
2. Take a look at your feet. One of the most important aspects of selecting a new pair athletic shoes is finding the right fit. While this may seem as simple as getting your feet measured, there are other important factors that you should take into consideration, including the arch of your foot. Knowing whether you have a high or natural arch, or are flat-footed, is a key element in choosing a sports shoe that will give your feet the proper amount of support.
3. Know the mechanics of your walk. Many people's feet have a tendency to roll inward or outward as they walk and run, which can cause knee, ankle or shin injury. It's important to find an athletic shoe that can compensate for this sideways motion.
For example, if a runner suffers from supination -- the outward rolling of the foot -- he should select a more flexible shoe with extra cushioning under the arch. A runner whose foot has an exaggerated inward roll -- overpronation -- needs a shoe with stability and motion control.
Tags: your feet, shoe need, shoe that, type shoe, type shoe need, your shoes, athletic shoes