How you run, the kind of running you do (e.g. dirt, treadmill, pavement) and how your foot is built are all important things to think about when you’re choosing a running shoe. Dr. Jordan Metzl, primary sports medicine physician, gives the following tips on choosing the best running shoe:
1.Go to a running specialty store that knows about fitting runners and running shoes. If you go to a store that has all different types of sports equipment, chances are that you’re not going to get a great pair of shoes.
2.Try running first on a treadmill to watch how your foot strikes and then go out to try your running shoes for a few miles.
3.Try out different running shoes and brands that match your foot type. There’s no one size that fits all.
4. People who have shin splints or pain along the inside part of their shin do best with a motion control shoe that limits their pronation, a slight inward rolling motion the foot makes during a normal walking or running stride.
5. People with arthritis or arthritic knees tend to do better with a cushioning type of shoe that helps as well with strong muscles.
6.Don’t run in flats if you haven’t trained in them before to avoid injury.
7.Change your shoes every 300-500 miles or 3-4 months. It’s a case by case basis for everyone.
These tips previously appeared on Triathelete.com. Consult with your physician before starting an exercise regimen.
