When you ask what workout gear that is an absolute necessity, you will get many answers. You will hear an iPod, moisture absorbing clothing, or a reusable water bottle. The truth is, the most important workout gear is a proper pair of shoes for the type of workout you are doing. It is easy to become confused with all we are offered in workout shoes, so let’s cover the blunders that most people make when purchasing a shoe so that you know you are buying what will work best for your workout.
1. Grabbing Whatever is Handy – When we begin a new workout, we will grab what is in the closet instead of getting the proper shoes for the exercise we are beginning. The old pair that has been sitting in your closet most likely no longer has the foot support you will need and may be wrong for the exercise activity.
2. Not Being Specific Enough – You will need to be very specific in your choice of workout shoe. You may think that a running shoe will be fine for running, basketball, or tennis, but that is incorrect. They are all very different in their stability, as well as the supported areas. For instance, a walking shoe will not offer lateral stability, where a running shoe will in order to help your foot spring through the running cycle.
3. Choosing an All-The-Time Shoe – When you choose a shoe for working out, make sure this isn’t a shoe that you will wear on a daily basis to run errands or around the house. Choose the shoe for working out only, and stick to wearing them only then. This will keep you from breaking them down quickly so they do their job when they are supposed to. In other words, don’t buy them because they will look cute with an outfit you bought to wear on weekend outings.
4. Keeping Them Forever – Along with wearing them at times other than working out, keeping them too long can be hurtful to your feet and body. When they start breaking down buy a new pair. Your workout shoes should be replaced once a year if you work out regularly, and for runners, replace every 500 miles.
5. Making it Easier – If you are confused about the myriad of choices, buying a good cross trainer is fine for those who are not extreme enthusiasts. They will work fine for those only go for an occasional hike, play tennis a few times a month, or only go to the gym occasionally. They are also good for a home gym where you walk a treadmill or play basketball with the kids in the driveway, or other casual working out. Be sure that the shoe has good support, firm heels, and are light weight. However, if you participate in any activity more than three times a week, consider buying a shoe for that specific activity instead of a cross trainer.
