Shoes
There are so many different types of shoes on the market, it is
difficult to find the right shoe for the right activity. A few tips to
help you make the right choice.
Fit and comfort
The shoe needs to fit well, not too tight or narrow. The foot needs
adequate support. The heel of the foot needs to be completely in the back
of the shoe, toes need to have adequate space to move.
Cushioning
The shoe is meant as a shock absorbers, especially with high-impact
aerobics. Jump up and down a few times when trying them on, and land toe
bal heels to test the cushioning in the front of the shoe. Walk or jog a
bit to test the midsole and heel. Too much cushioning can make the shoe
unstable.
Stability
Stability of the shoe keeps the foot in it's place, whether you jump
forward, backwards or laterally. Test the stability of the forefoot by
jumping on the toes, and the stability of the back by feeling whether your
heel is at the back of the shoe. The stability of the sides of the shoe
can be tested by jumping laterally. The less movement you feel, the more
stable the shoe is.
Flexibility
A good flexibility of the shoe can be seen by movement of the heel when
pushing your toes upward. To test this; keep the heel in it's place and
lift the toes up. This flexion should be done with ease. When standing on
your toes, the heel should stay in it's place and not move.
Profile of the sole
The foot needs to move easily on the floor. Try the shoe on the same
type of floor as the type you do your exercises on. Aerobic and step shoes
are usually made for hardwood floors and are not designed to be used on
carpet. Make sure that you do not slide too much or that you have too much
friction.
Insoles
A removable insole is preferred, because they are usually made with
better covering and you can easily replace them with a custom made one.
Replacement
Shoes that are used approximately 4 times a week with fitness exercises
can best be replaced after 4 months. Shoes with an inner sole of
polyurethane will last approximately 6 months. Shoes with a regular EVA
inne sole will last no longer than 3 months.
Questions
Be wise to tell the personnel in the store what injuries you've had, if
any, what type of sport you do, how often you are going to use them and
what type of floor you are going to use them on.
Choice
Choose shoes that go with the activity that you do. When you do
aerobics, buy aerobic shoes, when you run, buy running shoes. The
different sport shoes are specifically designed for their purpose.
Buyers Guides:
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