Are you wearing the right SHOE?

Running shoes:

What to look for in a running shoe, and when to wear it?

Running shoes are for running, walking, brisk walking, jogging, etc. as they are designed to promote forward movement, which is why the heel is often higher than the toe. So, finding footwear that is raised from the heel and well-cushioned which works like shock absorber is recommended. Running shoes not only provide substantial midsole foot cushioning, but they also offer arch support, aid in the prevention of injuries and can promote improved athletic performance. Below is the example of a good running shoe.

Training shoes:

Training shoes are designed in the way that it will bring the entire foot close to the ground for a good grip, stability, and better lateral movement, as well as for overall versatility during weight lifting, training, and aerobics, etc. Training shoes support during moves like squatting, lifting, or even benching by letting the entire muscles to engage in those exercises. 

Training shoes are for multi-directional movement, especially lateral/sides movement. They support in cutting, stopping, breaking, jumping, and changing direction quickly.

The sole of a training shoe is more flexible to allow a wide range of movement. They are light in weight and flatter for better ground grip. Training shoes are the best to use for outdoor boot camps, weight lifting in the gym, strength training like powerlifting and agility training like squash and badminton, etc. Below is the example of a good running shoe.

What if you choose the wrong shoes?

Choosing wrong shoes can lead to injuries in legs, shins, and ankles e.g. Turning ankles, twisting your knee, nagging blisters, and other injuries like plantar fasciitis (An inflammation of a thick band of tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes) that you may also develop as a result of the wrong type of shoe which can put excessive stress on the softer parts of your foot especially if you already have any other foot issues such as flat-footed.

The wrong shoe can hinder your performance. For example, running shoes during squatting won’t give you the tight ground grip, and stability from lateral foot and during aerobics or other functional exercises won’t give the agility you need. Same during running if you are going to run with a training shoe, it may hurt your legs and limit your speed and mileage.