Getting the right running shoe can make a big difference in how healthy you stay and whether or not you get hurt while running. It can also make a big difference in how comfortable you are while running.
The number one big mistake that most new runners make is looking for deals. You go out and buy the cheapest pair of running shoes you can find. You won't find a good running shoe at Walmart, believe me.
If you try to save money, you'll end up giving up running because bad shoes are so painful. Some people who are more determined may not give up until they blow out their knee or have really bad shin splints.
With so many styles and high-tech shoes on the market today, it can be hard to find the right pair of running shoes for you. But here are some tips that will help.
First, you need to know what pronation is. Pronation is when the foot rolls from the heel to the toes as the foot hits the ground. A neutral or correct pronation is when you land evenly on the outside of your heel and up to the ball of your foot. This is how your foot makes impact less stressful.
Underpronation is when your foot doesn't even out enough, so the outside of your foot takes most of the shock instead of ending up in the neutral position.
Overpronation is when your foot rolls too much from the outside to the inside.
Look at the shoes you walk or run in to find out how much you pronate. Most people will start on the outside of the heel. The wear on the forefoot would be a better sign.
If most shoes are worn:
If you overpronate on the medial (inside) side,
On the outside (lateral) side, you underpronate.
- The front of your foot is the same, you have a neutral stride.
This information will tell you what you need to know to choose the right running shoe for your foot.
