Keeping Your Feet Fit

I am a firm believer that you don't need fancy equipment to stay fit, but wearing the right workout shoes can protect your feet from blisters, discomfort, swelling and prevent injury.

It's tough to get the most out of your workout if your shoes are uncomfortable and your feet hurt. A high-quality shoe that fits properly will support your fitness routine so you can get the most out of it.

Consider these tips to find the right workout shoe to support your fitness program:

• Choose shoes that are specific to the activity you are doing such as running, walking or cross training.
• If you are flat-footed, look for stable shoes with good support so your feet don't roll inward.
• If you have high-arches, get a flexible shoe to absorb shock caused when your feet roll outward.
• Your workout shoes should be replaced every six months or less, depending on how often you use them.
• When the outer sole is worn or the sides of the shoe lean to either side, it is time to get a new pair.
• Wear workout socks when you go to try on athletic footwear so you can a realistic idea of the fit.
• Your workout shoes should have a half-inch gap between the toe box and your longest toe to fit properly.

By following these simple tips for buying workout shoes, you can guard against injury and get the most out of your fitness routine.

Athletic Shoes - How to Find The Right Pair

Although we realize the importance of working out regularly, wearing the right athletic shoes is essential to prevent injuries and enhance our performance. No matter what type of workout you choose, you need to wear shoes that fit correctly and are suited to your particular fitness program.

Consider the following guidelines when you purchase your next pair of athletic shoes:

• Try on shoes after a workout or at the end of the day when your feet are their largest for the best fit;
• When you try on athletic shoes, wear the socks you will be wearing when working out;
• Athletic shoes should be comfortable as soon as you put them on and should not require you to break them in;
• Walk, run and wiggle your toes in the shoes you try on to test their comfort in action;
• and Make sure your heel does not slip out of the shoe when you run or walk.

Also, if you participate in a sport three times weekly or more, you should wear athletic shoes designed for that particular physical activity. For example, wear running shoes for jogging, hiking shoes for trail running and field shoes for soccer.

Wearing the proper athletic shoes for your fitness program is the first step toward a successful workout and better health.