July 6, 2004

Choosing Gym Shoes Isn’t All About The Look

I had to learn a difficult lesson recently. I decided to go back to the gym more regularly and I needed a new pair of gym shoes. Being the typical female I am, I was excited to go shoe shopping. Much to my disappointment, however, I discovered that buying gym shoes, is not nearly as fun as buying a funky new pair of boots or sandals. Rather, it is a lesson in comfort, support, and finding the shoe that fits the sport.

When I walked into the local athletic foot store, I quickly scanned the wall for a pair of gym shoes that would look really great with the cute gym outfit I had just bought. My eyes glossed over brightly colored models and my mind began to automatically recall slogans and commercial jingles with every brand name that I saw.

Suddenly, I was pulled out of my reverie when a young man approached me and asked if I needed help. “No. I think I see a few pairs that I really like.” He proceeded to ask me what I would be using the runners for and I told him my great plan to get back in shape. Well, that was the beginning of my lesson in choosing proper gym shoes.

The sad thing about buying the proper gym shoes is that you have to disregard style and color (WARNING: this may be traumatizing). It’s all about getting a shoe that fits; otherwise, you run the risk of injuring yourself, or making old injuries worse. Furthermore, you need to purchase shoes that are made for the activity you intend to perform because depending on what you will be doing (ex. walking or running) the features on the runners will vary. So, here are a few tips on how to buy the right runner.

If you are going to be performing aerobic activities you will need to look for gym shoes that have lateral support for all those side to side movements you will be doing. Also, look for extra cushioning in the front of the shoe so that it will absorb any impact from jumping and bouncing. However, if it’s some cross training you will be doing, then you will need to find a shoe that has comfort and support for all your favorite activities (walking, running, fitness classes).

One of the more difficult gym shoes to buy is the running shoe because it is very specific. It actually depends on how you run, which will determine the type of shoe you should buy. This requires you visiting a store where the staff is trained and knowledgeable about the features of proper running shoes.

Of course, these three examples don’t cover all the gym shoes that are available, but hopefully gives you some insight on how scientific the whole process can be. If you are going to be fitted for some work out or weight lifting shoes then bring along the socks you would normally wear, throw out any notion of buying the latest, hottest look in footwear and get ready to buy some expensive, yet quality runners, that will help keep you injury free and will last you until the next season.

About The Author:
Angela Lanci Zaurrini is a talented and successful freelance writer. Her various writings provide relevant information and wonderfully researched resources for body builders and sports enthusiasts. She is a young and yet experienced educator who earned her B.A. and teaching certification through Simon Fraser University, Canada. She continues her passion of sharing knowledge through her numerous writings and educational articles.

By: Angela Lanci Zaurrini
http//www.a1-weight-lifting-equipment.com