84 Days | Challenge Yourself

Running is a word which most people hate the thought of saying. Let alone lace up a pair of shoes and actually run down the street. For most people running is a hard sport because they have little or no knowledge when it comes to actually trying it.
Others will make the attempt to start a running program and they grab the running shoes that are so old the dog has stopped chewing on them. It never fails to surprise me when I see beginners on a treadmill running in shoes they have used for cutting the grass for the past two summers.

The secret to running lies directly under your feet. You see shoes are the secret to pain free running. Just because you see the most expensive running shoe on the shelf does not mean they are the best for you.

There are three types of running shoes.
1. Cushion shoes. These shoes are designed for individuals
that land flat on their feet and do not roll inwards (Pronation)
or roll outwards (Supination) on the edge of the feet.

2. Pronation – Offers cushioning and some moderate to
heavy stabilization for those that land or roll over onto
the inside of their foot. It is designed to help keep the foot flat.

3. Supination – This shoe is designed for those that
require stabilizing the foot and preventing it from rolling over
onto the outside edge of the foot.

When you are running, everyone will land on the outside part of
the heel. As the foot flattens out it is here that the foot will roll inwards or outwards. This is the crucial step when buying the
right shoe.

If a person pronates they must insure they purchase a shoe that
is designed to help keep the foot flat and prevent it from rolling inwards and at the same time give the foot the cushion it requires
to absorb the shock. Place a shoe designed for a supination problem with this type of runner will result in shin splints, ankle
pain and even hip pain

If you are serious about running, I strongly urge you to visit a professional running store. I recommend the Running Room and Running Free.

Both of these stores are staffed with those that are serious runners and know the importance of a good shoe. They will give you a free foot analysis to ensure you are selecting the shoe right for you. Be prepared to spend a good 45 minutes to an hour before you find the shoe that is best for you.