The act of running doesn’t require a lot of equipment; you don’t need shoulder pads, shin guards, or a baseball glove. BUT it is crucial to invest in a quality pair of running shoes that correctly fit your foot.
Choosing a pair simply because of the colors and design can often times seem more desirable, but finding that right shoe can save you from a lifetime of injuries, pain, and blisters.The right pair of shoes should make your foot feel lighter when you run. Each person has a different footprint, just like no fingerprint is the same. It is important to understand this footprint, which can also be called your pronation. Pronation is the way your foot naturally rolls from heel to to when it strikes the ground. Each person has a unique pronation and it should determine what kind of shoe is a right fit for you. Questions to ask yourself when determining your pronation: Do you have a narrow foot? Do you have a flat foot? Do you have high arches? These elements effect the way your foot hits the ground when you run, and your running shoes should be made specifically to support your unique footprint.
Running with the wrong type of shoe can cause injuries. A common injury from running without properly fitted shoes are shin splints. Shin splints start with an aching pain on the inside of the shin, near the border of the tibia and calf muscles. They are more common in less experienced athletes and can become extremely painful. They can be prevented by reducing the amount of stress put on the tibia, and by wearing a shoe fitted specifically for your foot!
So, how do you get fitted for a running shoe that’s made for you? Your foot can be sized and fitted at a local running store. The employees there may have more time to give advice and personal attention than at a large general sports store.
So if you are going to invest your time in running and exercise, also invest that time and effort in finding the right shoe for you to increase your running abilities while providing you with the best support!