If you listen to your running shoes, and get out the door and run...congratulations you can call yourself a runner. And you really belong to an elite club; one you should be proud you belong to. You may not be a club member, but the very fact of running makes you special.
You are different from the majority of the population, who would rather work 9 to 5, slump in front of the television or go down the pub for a few drinks. You know that you have to put the work in to see a result. You know that running doesn't come easy, that if you miss a few days running you might end up back at square one.
Running needs to be consistent. If you only have time to run three days a week you need to do that. Not ease off because you'll miss an episode of Star Trek.
And your running shoes can be your best friend in this situation. If they are comfortable, fit well, and give you all the support you need your running shoes will take you far; even further that the recommended 500 miles if you're lucky.
Tuesday, October 24, 2006
Saturday, October 21, 2006
Listen to Your Running Shoes
Running is an essential part of who I am. Some of my best memories in life are associated with running, but too often these memories are a long way in my past. So, sometimes I feel I am looking back too much and not living in the moment.
Running helps you see the world around you and live in the moment. It's so easy to go automatically through life not paying attention to anything. Come home make the dinner, switch on the television, look longing at your running shoes and say to yourself tomorrow I'll go running, today I'm too busy.
If your running shoes could talk to you they would say "come on, what's the matter with you?-- it's been days since we went out, I need to get out I'm going mental just sitting here in the hall"
You need to listen to your running shoes.
Whether you wear addidas or Nike it really doesn't matter if your running shoes fit well, and give you adequate cushioning you should listen to them and get out that door at least three times a week. Any less than this, and you are not a runner, and you are deceiving yourself to say otherwise.
Running helps you see the world around you and live in the moment. It's so easy to go automatically through life not paying attention to anything. Come home make the dinner, switch on the television, look longing at your running shoes and say to yourself tomorrow I'll go running, today I'm too busy.
If your running shoes could talk to you they would say "come on, what's the matter with you?-- it's been days since we went out, I need to get out I'm going mental just sitting here in the hall"
You need to listen to your running shoes.
Whether you wear addidas or Nike it really doesn't matter if your running shoes fit well, and give you adequate cushioning you should listen to them and get out that door at least three times a week. Any less than this, and you are not a runner, and you are deceiving yourself to say otherwise.
Thursday, October 12, 2006
Running for Your Better Life
The points in the following article are correct:
1)Running is good for you. Always consult a medical practitioner if in doubt about starting a running programme. If you are a total beginner start first by jogging/walking. Different programs are available about this.
2)You need to find the correct shoe. A specialist shop will help with this. Most importantly the shoe has to feel "right", and give you enough support.
3)Everyone's feet are different so if you're not sure about a shoe don't buy it.
-------------------------------------------------------------
Running for your better life
Running is a good exercise. Many physicians worldwide suggest their patients to go running to stay fit. Running will always be fun if you are wearing the right kind of shoe. Your shoe will make a lot of difference and if you are wearing the wrong kind of shoe, running will always be painful and cause you a lot of discomfort.
To feel comfortable and to protect your feet one should always opt for running shoes when one goes for running. Running shoes are the most important piece of equipment that a runners has. They may help the running gait be more efficient and they help prevent injury. The running shoe market is huge and most of the running shoe companies make significant investment into the technology and science of running shoes.
A proper running shoe must consist some of the basic components:
• The outsole: This is the treaded layer on the undersurface of the shoe, usually made from carbon rubber or similar material. It resists wears and provides traction.
• The midsole: This is considered the most important part of running shoes as it is the cushioning and stability layer between the upper and the outsole.
• The upper: This is the part of the shoe that wraps around and over the top of the foot. The tongue of the upper should be padded to cushion the top of the foot against the pressure from the laces.
• The heel counter: This is a firm and inflexible cup which is built into the upper of running shoes and surrounds the heel. It usually can control motion of the rear foot as it is very firm.
• Post or footbridge: This is the firm material in the midsole which increases stability along the inner side (arch side; medial side) of the running shoe.
A lot of people find difficulty in choosing the perfect running shoe and end up buying the wrong ones. All the runners need the best protection that running shoes can provide so the running shoe needs to absorb shock, control motion, and should be flexible and be durable. Every runner is different; each model of running shoe is different and every brand of running shoes is different. The challenge is to match the features of each runner to the features of a particular brand and model of running shoe. The most important aspect of matching a brand and model of running shoe to the individual is to decide on what kind of foot a person has. Feet like people come in different shapes, designs and sizes. It can be divided into three categories. They are:
1. The flat foot
2. The high-arched foot
3. The low high-arched foot
It’s always better to shop in the later part of the afternoon as the feet get bigger during the day and they will get bigger when running. One should wear the socks that you would normally wear during running. Finding what kind of feet you have and finding the right kind of shoe will definitely help you run better.
Jeffrey Meier of Jam727 Enterprises at Jam727 offers information articles and detailed articles on a wide variety of subjects.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jeffrey_Meier
1)Running is good for you. Always consult a medical practitioner if in doubt about starting a running programme. If you are a total beginner start first by jogging/walking. Different programs are available about this.
2)You need to find the correct shoe. A specialist shop will help with this. Most importantly the shoe has to feel "right", and give you enough support.
3)Everyone's feet are different so if you're not sure about a shoe don't buy it.
-------------------------------------------------------------
Running for your better life
Running is a good exercise. Many physicians worldwide suggest their patients to go running to stay fit. Running will always be fun if you are wearing the right kind of shoe. Your shoe will make a lot of difference and if you are wearing the wrong kind of shoe, running will always be painful and cause you a lot of discomfort.
To feel comfortable and to protect your feet one should always opt for running shoes when one goes for running. Running shoes are the most important piece of equipment that a runners has. They may help the running gait be more efficient and they help prevent injury. The running shoe market is huge and most of the running shoe companies make significant investment into the technology and science of running shoes.
A proper running shoe must consist some of the basic components:
• The outsole: This is the treaded layer on the undersurface of the shoe, usually made from carbon rubber or similar material. It resists wears and provides traction.
• The midsole: This is considered the most important part of running shoes as it is the cushioning and stability layer between the upper and the outsole.
• The upper: This is the part of the shoe that wraps around and over the top of the foot. The tongue of the upper should be padded to cushion the top of the foot against the pressure from the laces.
• The heel counter: This is a firm and inflexible cup which is built into the upper of running shoes and surrounds the heel. It usually can control motion of the rear foot as it is very firm.
• Post or footbridge: This is the firm material in the midsole which increases stability along the inner side (arch side; medial side) of the running shoe.
A lot of people find difficulty in choosing the perfect running shoe and end up buying the wrong ones. All the runners need the best protection that running shoes can provide so the running shoe needs to absorb shock, control motion, and should be flexible and be durable. Every runner is different; each model of running shoe is different and every brand of running shoes is different. The challenge is to match the features of each runner to the features of a particular brand and model of running shoe. The most important aspect of matching a brand and model of running shoe to the individual is to decide on what kind of foot a person has. Feet like people come in different shapes, designs and sizes. It can be divided into three categories. They are:
1. The flat foot
2. The high-arched foot
3. The low high-arched foot
It’s always better to shop in the later part of the afternoon as the feet get bigger during the day and they will get bigger when running. One should wear the socks that you would normally wear during running. Finding what kind of feet you have and finding the right kind of shoe will definitely help you run better.
Jeffrey Meier of Jam727 Enterprises at Jam727 offers information articles and detailed articles on a wide variety of subjects.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jeffrey_Meier
Wednesday, October 11, 2006
Wrong choice of running shoe
I ran the Clumber 10k race on Sunday, but unfortunately chose to wear the wrong shoes. I may have previously said that I like the Asics DS racer, and they are good to use on an elliptical trainer or in the gym. They may be good for people if they are fit enough, but I would exercise caution.
Cushioning and support is minimal. This is to be expected as they are racing flats. So to run in them when I'm not 100%, and coming back from an injury was a mistake.
Things went fine up to 5k, then after this I was looking to speed up, and build the speed for a few kilometres, and finish fast. After maybe 6 or 7k my right calf started to hurt, so I was forced to stop 3 times before the finish to stretch it.
This may have happened if I'd worn a different pair of shoes, but I'm sure that they didn't help. Lots of stretching, and cold baths later the leg is feeling better.
I'll save the DS racers for gym work in future.
Cushioning and support is minimal. This is to be expected as they are racing flats. So to run in them when I'm not 100%, and coming back from an injury was a mistake.
Things went fine up to 5k, then after this I was looking to speed up, and build the speed for a few kilometres, and finish fast. After maybe 6 or 7k my right calf started to hurt, so I was forced to stop 3 times before the finish to stretch it.
This may have happened if I'd worn a different pair of shoes, but I'm sure that they didn't help. Lots of stretching, and cold baths later the leg is feeling better.
I'll save the DS racers for gym work in future.
Friday, September 08, 2006
Nike Pegasus
Nike makes fashion shoes, as well as sports shoes for tennis and basketball, but they're perhaps best known for their running shoes.
Their most famous shoe is arguably their best: Pegasus. This has had a few adjustments for 2006. I have tried these shoes before but never really liked them. A few months ago, though, I tried them on the shop, they felt just right, really comfortable, and I have been using them for all my runs.
They are light, but also have ample air cushioning, and have a new more breathable fabric. Mine are in blue, but they are more commonly white.
They are highly recommended.
Their most famous shoe is arguably their best: Pegasus. This has had a few adjustments for 2006. I have tried these shoes before but never really liked them. A few months ago, though, I tried them on the shop, they felt just right, really comfortable, and I have been using them for all my runs.
They are light, but also have ample air cushioning, and have a new more breathable fabric. Mine are in blue, but they are more commonly white.
They are highly recommended.
Tuesday, January 10, 2006
Asics DS trainer & racer
I found a couple of great Asics running shoes in the New Year sales. Asics DS racer, and the DS Trainer. The DS racer is great for speed sessions, and is surprisingly comfortable if you have a neutral gait. A fellow runner told me he used to run in these a lot, but the sole wears out quickly especially if you pronate at all.
He favoured the DS Trainer, which has more cushioning. Having tried both I prefer the DS racer at the moment. They are lightweight, ideal for speed training, and even longer runs. A no frill shoe that you might like, but if you need more cushioning go for Asics 2010, or even Nike Pegasus.
He favoured the DS Trainer, which has more cushioning. Having tried both I prefer the DS racer at the moment. They are lightweight, ideal for speed training, and even longer runs. A no frill shoe that you might like, but if you need more cushioning go for Asics 2010, or even Nike Pegasus.
Sunday, November 20, 2005
Asics 2100
Back in June I went to a specialist running shop in Peterborough and got my gait analysed. I was happy with this, and the shoes I bought until I started to develop a pain in my right foot-- along the sole.
The only thing I could think of that I should change was my running shoes. Perhaps these shoes weren't as good as I thought they were. Or perhaps I just needed a change. Anyway, I took myself down to a not so specialist running store, and tried out a pair of Asics 2100s on the treadmill. I'd read enough about them to know they were an excellent pair of shoes.
Providing extra stability, and cushioning and one of the most highly rated shoes at Runners World magazine. Even though I have a neutral foot, I thought the extra support and cushioning would do me good.
I have been very pleased with these shoes since then, and they do seem to put an extra spring in my step. I have even been using them to good effect in speed sessions.
The only thing I could think of that I should change was my running shoes. Perhaps these shoes weren't as good as I thought they were. Or perhaps I just needed a change. Anyway, I took myself down to a not so specialist running store, and tried out a pair of Asics 2100s on the treadmill. I'd read enough about them to know they were an excellent pair of shoes.
Providing extra stability, and cushioning and one of the most highly rated shoes at Runners World magazine. Even though I have a neutral foot, I thought the extra support and cushioning would do me good.
I have been very pleased with these shoes since then, and they do seem to put an extra spring in my step. I have even been using them to good effect in speed sessions.
Wednesday, August 10, 2005
How to Pick the Right Pair of Running Shoes
Here's an informative article I found on choosing the right pair of running shoes:
===============================
Are you ready to start a new healthy habit of running or a seasoned runner looking to replace an old pair of shoes? Either way, it is very important to buy the right pair of shoes for you – not necessarily the ones that are the most technically advanced or on the sale rack!
At least for me, it is so tempting to hit the sale rack when I begin my search for new shoes. It kills me to spend anymore than I absolutely have to, but with running shoes, I have found, it is one thing to not spare any expense. Finding a great pair of running shoes is sure to save most people money with comfort and safety. Finding a pair for $49 does not do a lot of good if you hurt your knee the next day!
There are so many brands and styles of shoes that it’s hard to know where to start when you walk into a retailer. If you’re not sure where to start in the process, note the techniques listed below for finding the perfect shoe for your needs.
Find Your Foot Type:
Figure out how you run (outside of your foot, outside to inside, or straight down the middle). The easiest way to determine how you run is to look at an old pair of running shoes. If the shoe is worn on the outside of the heel and rolls inward excessively, you have a pronated foot type – the majority of the population (60%) fits into this category. You’re more likely to have this foot type if you are flat footed.
If you have high arches, your foot is rigid and doesn’t pronate (roll inward) so there is not an effective shock absorber. Roughly 30% of the population has high-arched or supinated foot types.
If you land on the outside of your heel and roll inward slightly to absorb shock, you are of normal weight, you are considered the most sound (biomechanically) runner. Only about 10% of the population has neutral/ideal feet.
Tips for Your Trip to the Shoe Store:
Examine your old shoes for tread wear.
Socks are important. Wear your running socks when you try on.
If your feet are different sizes, buy for the larger one.
Shoes with better breathability will help curb sweating.
Grooves in the sole offer more flexibility.
Flat feet need support rather than flexibility.
If you tend to overpronate, look for shoes that will lace higher up so you can better customize the fit of the shoe.
Shoe should feel comfortable right way – they don’t need to be broken in.
When to Buy New Running Shoes:
Look at the soles. If they are worn out or very unevenly worn it is time for a new pair.
If you’ve traveled roughly 400-500 miles on your treadmill or it’s been six months, it is time for a new pair. Remember, if you are wearing your shoes for other activities, those miles count too!
What questions should the salespeople ask?
How long have you been running?
How much mileage are you doing per week?
Are you training for a particular event?
Where do you do most of your running?
How much do you weigh?
Are you aware of any foot problems?
Make sure that your shoes fit properly, below are some tips to help:
Check for adequate room at the toebox by pressing your thumb onto the shoe just above the longest toe. Thumb should fit between the end of the toe and the top of the shoe.
There should be adequate room in the widest part of foot. The shoe shouldn’t be tight and your foot shouldn’t slide around.
You heel should fit snugly against back of shoe without sliding up and down when running.
Run around in the store – try on a hard surface, not just on the carpet to get a true feeling on how the shoe will react outside
Simple solutions will get your running. The more you know about your feet and what activities you will be partaking in, the more prepared you will be to find the right pair of shoes. Shoes are important for the health of your feet, but for the rest of your bones and joints as well.
About the Author
Robb Ksiazek is an author and web publisher writing about mind, body, and soul for Body-Mass-Index-4U.com. He believes that our bodies have the power to heal themselves, we just need to allow them.
===============================
Are you ready to start a new healthy habit of running or a seasoned runner looking to replace an old pair of shoes? Either way, it is very important to buy the right pair of shoes for you – not necessarily the ones that are the most technically advanced or on the sale rack!
At least for me, it is so tempting to hit the sale rack when I begin my search for new shoes. It kills me to spend anymore than I absolutely have to, but with running shoes, I have found, it is one thing to not spare any expense. Finding a great pair of running shoes is sure to save most people money with comfort and safety. Finding a pair for $49 does not do a lot of good if you hurt your knee the next day!
There are so many brands and styles of shoes that it’s hard to know where to start when you walk into a retailer. If you’re not sure where to start in the process, note the techniques listed below for finding the perfect shoe for your needs.
Find Your Foot Type:
Figure out how you run (outside of your foot, outside to inside, or straight down the middle). The easiest way to determine how you run is to look at an old pair of running shoes. If the shoe is worn on the outside of the heel and rolls inward excessively, you have a pronated foot type – the majority of the population (60%) fits into this category. You’re more likely to have this foot type if you are flat footed.
If you have high arches, your foot is rigid and doesn’t pronate (roll inward) so there is not an effective shock absorber. Roughly 30% of the population has high-arched or supinated foot types.
If you land on the outside of your heel and roll inward slightly to absorb shock, you are of normal weight, you are considered the most sound (biomechanically) runner. Only about 10% of the population has neutral/ideal feet.
Tips for Your Trip to the Shoe Store:
Examine your old shoes for tread wear.
Socks are important. Wear your running socks when you try on.
If your feet are different sizes, buy for the larger one.
Shoes with better breathability will help curb sweating.
Grooves in the sole offer more flexibility.
Flat feet need support rather than flexibility.
If you tend to overpronate, look for shoes that will lace higher up so you can better customize the fit of the shoe.
Shoe should feel comfortable right way – they don’t need to be broken in.
When to Buy New Running Shoes:
Look at the soles. If they are worn out or very unevenly worn it is time for a new pair.
If you’ve traveled roughly 400-500 miles on your treadmill or it’s been six months, it is time for a new pair. Remember, if you are wearing your shoes for other activities, those miles count too!
What questions should the salespeople ask?
How long have you been running?
How much mileage are you doing per week?
Are you training for a particular event?
Where do you do most of your running?
How much do you weigh?
Are you aware of any foot problems?
Make sure that your shoes fit properly, below are some tips to help:
Check for adequate room at the toebox by pressing your thumb onto the shoe just above the longest toe. Thumb should fit between the end of the toe and the top of the shoe.
There should be adequate room in the widest part of foot. The shoe shouldn’t be tight and your foot shouldn’t slide around.
You heel should fit snugly against back of shoe without sliding up and down when running.
Run around in the store – try on a hard surface, not just on the carpet to get a true feeling on how the shoe will react outside
Simple solutions will get your running. The more you know about your feet and what activities you will be partaking in, the more prepared you will be to find the right pair of shoes. Shoes are important for the health of your feet, but for the rest of your bones and joints as well.
About the Author
Robb Ksiazek is an author and web publisher writing about mind, body, and soul for Body-Mass-Index-4U.com. He believes that our bodies have the power to heal themselves, we just need to allow them.
Tuesday, August 09, 2005
Go to a Specialist Running Store
One of the best things you can do in your search for your ideal running shoe is to go to a specialist running store. Sure there are plenty of bargain basement places that will sell you nice looking shoes from Adidas or Reebok etc, but unless you've run in those shoes before you are likely to make a big mistake.
What to look for from a specialist running store?
1. Knowledgeable, helpful staff who are also runners.
2. A treadmill so you can try before you buy.
3. The option of having your gait analysed. You may have been running in the wrong shoes for years without realising it.
4. A wide selection of running shoes. Not fashion shoes by the big name sports brands.
What to look for from a specialist running store?
1. Knowledgeable, helpful staff who are also runners.
2. A treadmill so you can try before you buy.
3. The option of having your gait analysed. You may have been running in the wrong shoes for years without realising it.
4. A wide selection of running shoes. Not fashion shoes by the big name sports brands.
Choose Your Running Shoe With Care
Every person is different, and the best shoe for one person might be harmful to someone else.
Take Nike Air Pegasus as an example. These are perhaps one of the most popular and best selling shoes of all time. Nike originally introduced them in 1983, and they are still going strong today. They've gone through changes throughout the years, and many people swear by them.
They are soft, and light with plenty of cushioning and ideal if you are a neutral runner.
Yet, they can give you too soft a ride when you run. That is not to everyone's taste, and can lead to injury. If that is what you like these may be good for you, but if you like your shoes to be firmer I'd recommend something different.
Of course you can find more info on nike at Nike.com
Take Nike Air Pegasus as an example. These are perhaps one of the most popular and best selling shoes of all time. Nike originally introduced them in 1983, and they are still going strong today. They've gone through changes throughout the years, and many people swear by them.
They are soft, and light with plenty of cushioning and ideal if you are a neutral runner.
Yet, they can give you too soft a ride when you run. That is not to everyone's taste, and can lead to injury. If that is what you like these may be good for you, but if you like your shoes to be firmer I'd recommend something different.
Of course you can find more info on nike at Nike.com
Welcome to Best Running Shoes
I have run in many different running shoes over the years, and I suppose finding the best running shoes has always been something of an obsession. So, I hope you enjoy this blog as much as I'm sure to enjoy creating it.
Happy running!
Happy running!
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