Walking Shoes Are The Most Important Tool For Fitness
walking shoes
People are walking everywhere now for fitness. It’s an easy and inexpensive way to keep in shape and easier on your joints than running or jogging. You can do almost it anywhere and the only expense you will have is a good pair of walking shoes. Yeah right, you think, I can walk in any old shoes. Well, yes you can, but to get the most from your walking program and avoid injury, good shoes are necessary. Buy the best quality you can afford. If possible, buy two pair and rotate them.
Walking shoes are different from running shoes and cross trainers. Walking shoes should be light and flexible with enough room in the toe area to keep you from jamming your toes into the front of the shoe as you walk. The heel needs to fit snugly without slipping as you walk and the shoe should never pinch or bind anywhere. If it hurts now, it will hurt later. Be sure to try on both shoes as your feet may be slightly different sizes. Forget about the old adage that the shoe will “stretch” over time, and don’t let vanity make you select a shoe that is too small. Shop at the end of the day when your feet are at their largest and wear the same socks you plant to walk in when trying on shoes. For the very best fit, have the salesperson measure your feet. You may wear a different size depending on the brand of shoe you choose. Walking shoes also come in different widths, so having a professional measure your feet will let you know if you need a wider or narrower shoe.
When you get your new shoes home, wear them to walk around the house for a few days. Be sure to lace them correctly so that they are not too tight or so loose your foot slides around. If you find that they don’t work for you or fit properly, you can return them and they won’t be scuffed up from outdoor use. Keep track of the mileage on your shoes. Just like tires, they need to be replaced from time to time. The recommendation is every 300-600 miles. If you are overweight, hard on your shoes or the shoe is lightweight, replace them on the lower end of that scale.
Ok, you have your walking shoes. You’ve worn them around the house and they fit. Now you can get out there and start walking. Walk with a friend and the time will fly by or take your dog. He’ll benefit from the exercise and enjoy spending time with you. Explore your neighborhood on foot and you’ll see things you missed driving by.
