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Right Shoes for Aerobics
I
have had the unfortunate experience of witnessing first hand foot
and ankle injuries that have occurred in the Gym and in aerobic
classes. I would have to say that many of these incidents such
as a twisted or sprained ankle have been almost directly related
to old or improper footwear. Other injuries that are often caused
or worsened by improper footwear are plantar fasciitis and heel
spurs (both characterized by pain in heel and arch). Shin splints
and knee problems may also be aggravated by poor support. I am
constantly surprised how people can spend hundreds of dollars
on clothes and membership and show up to an aerobic class in sneakers
or old runners they have had for years. Excluding specialty classes
such as yoga or some dance style classes, barefoot is an even
worse choice. Please proper gym shoes is not a luxury but a necessity!
Tennis shoes are designed for tennis courts and running shoes
for running outdoors, walking shoes are for walking and sneakers
have no support and are a totally inappropriate choice. Today
the science of shoes marries the support in the sole to the impact
pressure points of the activity you are engaged in. Step or Hi/lo
aerobics, for example, places stress on different parts of the
foot than running. Proper footwear will not only prevent injury
but will improve your performance during your workout! If you
have an existing injury or have recently developed one, changing
your shoe may make a difference. Please don't hesitate to consult
a health care specialist such as podiatrist, athletic therapist
or kinesiologist, to determine what type of injury it is and whether
it is a chronic or acute condition. Sometimes insoles are prescribed
for people who have specific imbalances.
When buying new gym shoes, you do not have to spend a lot of money.
Here are some important tips when shopping for new shoes:
- go
to a reputable dealer the salesperson should inquire on what
your needs are i.e. purpose of the shoes and frequency of use
- price
point should relate to purpose and frequency of use
- try
2 or 3 major brands and walk around with them in the store
- ensure
that you can return them if they don't fit well in the Gym
If
you train 3 times a week, you should be prepared to change your
shoes every 6 months (yes, every 6 months!) and more frequently,
if you train vigorously or more often. Expensive shoes don't last
any longer than the cheaper ones. For this reason, I believe it
is better to buy a cheaper shoe and renew more often. Save your
Gym shoes only for the Gym, do not wear them outside.
As for some of the big name brands in AEROBICS, you can try Reebok,
Nike, Adidas. New Balance is becoming very popular, many participants
are swearing by them. Ryka is designed for women only and, is
worth a try. Avia is good but hard to find.
For
Studio classes seek out an Aerobics shoe (hard to find nowadays)
or a cross trainer shoe. Step and kick boxing shoes are good for
those specific activities. Do not wear runners, they have a different
design and may promote injury in Studio classes.
Do
you have a favourite gym shoe, style and maker? Please share your
thoughts, comments and experience. I invite you to e-mail me.
I
am happy to publish on this site some popular styles and name-brands,
in hope this will help others....
Diana
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