Choosing the Right Sneaker 
by Fitz

     This is one of the most important facets of surviving a great workout without any injuries. All too often I peek into an aerobics class and see people wearing Keds. Certainly not ideal. 

Nowadays, we walk into a shoe store and see a zillion different shoe types: runners, cross trainers, cleats, high tops and low tops. Why so many? We didn't used to have so many options. Sneakers were sneakers and that was that. Well, research and technology is your answer. Now that we know better, we do better. 

Each shoe is now specifically designed to provide support in places where certain activities incur the most shock. I'm listing a few examples, and before you read the supporting text. Think about what each athlete’s feet and ankles endure.

Runners: Every time a runner takes a step, three times his/her body weight is impacting down on each foot. That is why you see runners with the gigantic air pockets on the bottom of each shoe. Running shoes are created so that both your heel and forefoot are extremely padded. There is thick tread on the bottom of the shoe to grab the road and avoid slipping. Also, because runners are normally only moving forward, the lateral ankle support of a high top is unnecessary.

Aerobics: Aerobics students spend most of their time on the balls of their feet while performing lots of side to side and twisting type moves. Impact is similar to that of running during a high impact class. These sneakers are made with lots of support in the forefoot, and are usually mid to high tops in order to help stabilize the ankles. Smooth tread on the bottom in order to prevent catching your foot while performing twisting and pivoting movements.

Basketball: How many friends do we have who have sprained their ankles playing basketball? Thus, the high top and smooth tread. This sport is particularly rough on the ankles, due to lots of twisting and sidestepping. Extra support for the bottom of the foot is also a priority for lots of running up and down the court.
Boxing: There is almost NO heel and forefoot support, and absolutely no tread in boxing shoes, but the ankle support is rarely surpassed. Boxing shoes are extremely light, in order to help the fighter remain light on her/his feet, and lace way up to the shin. This super high top provides boxers with the lateral support necessary during lots of side to side and front to back movement. This feature also provides support on the fighter's way down (into lala land).

Walking: This shoe sports medium support for the heel and forefoot, light in weight, some tread, and definitely a low top. Beyond walking for exercise, these shoes are a good choice for long days at the mall or theme park, and waiters too!
Cross trainers: These shoes are normally a mid (shorter than a high top, yet not a low top either). This type of shoe is nice for someone who participates in various activities while not dedicated to any one in particular. It provides some lateral support, some cushioning in the forefoot and heel, and some tread (less than runners and more than aerobics). I recommend cross trainers for someone who lifts lots of weights and utilizes stationary cardiovascular machines like the Stairmaster. I would not recommend running frequently or long distances in cross trainers.

So you see, choosing the right sneaker with your particular needs in mind is extremely important. I believe that choosing the best protective equipment is more than half the battle in the fight to avoid injury. I understand that sneaker prices have become astronomical in some cases, but imagine how much doctor visits and time away from your favorite workout will cost you. Be smart, and remember ... all sneakers are not created equal!

Copyright 2000-2005 Fitzness Intl., Inc. All Rights Reserved.