Your best Buddies

Typically on this blog I focus on the many parallels between the sport of running and various aspects of our daily lives.  This blog however I would like to give some simple tips I have learned over the past few years of running.  In a sense I could relate these tips to my life.  These tips have been learned over a long period with many mistakes taking place before I finally learned what I needed.  It takes time to develop as a runner, and these tips I have learned mark my experience in the sport.  Of all the tips I have learned, picking the right running shoe is the most important.  

I once heard a quote from my coach that went something like, "Cinderella is living proof that a new pair of shoes can change your life".  While the most important part of a runner is attitude, something has to carry that attitude; and the feet are the poor suckers who get stuck with that job.  The feet are without a doubt the most important part of the body to take care of for a runner.  Care for them and they will carry you the distance.  Your shoes are your best buddies.  What this means for you is buy the right shoes.  

When I was team captain, I encouraged so many of my teammates wearing flashy Nike running shoes that were lightweight, but offered no support.  When it comes to shoes, everyone is different.  Different shoes are better for some, but a general rule of thumb is to buy shoes with a lot of support.  

Those with very flat feet need the most support of all.  

There are four main categories of running shoes.  Runners World recognizes 4 types of shoes: Minimalist, Performance, Stability, and Neutral.  Minimalist shoes are lightweight and should only be used if you have high arches and are running fairly short distances.  Neutral is a good balance of support and weight, while stability is best for those with flat feet.  Performance shoes are generally for track workouts or races.  To determine what type you need, I would generally try to go to a speciality running store for the owner to advise you.  This also means you should never order shoes online unless you have tried the shoe before.  

When purchasing shoes keep in mind a few things.  The type of running you do will determine your shoe needs. Depending on how far you are running, you may need more stability.  If you are running long distances, a stability shoe may be best.  However, if you are generally running shorter distances with a focus on speed, neutral shoes are your best best.  Secondly, although it seems obvious, purchase a shoe that fits properly, which basically rules out online shoe shopping.  A shoe that doesn't fit makes you injury and blister prone.  Thirdly, Nike shoes, as cool as they are, are bad for your feet. If you are willing to spend the money, try looking in to Mizuno or Brooks.  

If your feet fail, you won't be running too far.  There is a lot of awesome running gear out there, but the most important part is your set of sneakers.  Invest in a good pair that fits your needs and keep those feet happy.  Keep them happy and you as a runner will also be happy.