With warmer weather hopefully upon us, more people will take to the streets in their running shoes.  Last week Matt discussed how to choose shoes that are best for you.  This week we will continue to talk about this subject and maybe mother nature will actually give us some weather to run in that doesn't involve wind and snow.

When buying shoes, it is important to check your running shoes to see if the soles are too thick for your own good. There is the general perception that the thickest, spongiest soles offer the most protection.  However, according to bio-mechanics experts, running shoes with soles that are too thick compromise balance.  It has been found that feet naturally strike harder as they struggle to maintain balance.  As a result, runners with overly thick soles on their running shoes invite ankle sprains and other running injuries even if they run only a few miles weekly.  Research also shows that runners who wear thick soled shoes are twice as likely to injure themselves as runners in thin soled shoes.

It is also a good idea to replace your shoes on a regular basis.  Generally manufacturers recommend replacing shoes every 500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first.  This is because the cushioning is beaten down by repetitive wear and loses its shock absorbing ability.

Running shoes are the most important piece of equipment that a runner has.  They help prevent injury and they may help the running gait be more efficient.  Because of the complexity of individual foot bio-mechanics and the complexity of running shoes on the market, it is usually a good idea to go to a specialty running shoe store as they will have the expertise to help you find the best running shoe for your individual needs.  Good luck and stop in to see us with any additional questions you may have.

Yours in health,

Valerie