THE BEST SHOE for you

AVOID PAIN BY CHOOSING THE RIGHT FOOTWEAR WHEN EXERCISING

BY DAVID BUICE

You may be tempted to think that a basic pair of sneakers or running shoes will suffice for your type and level of exercise, whatever that might be. Actually, that assumption is wrong. To understand this situation, think of your body as an elongated chain. The links are all connected, from your toes to your head, and a problem at one end can easily lead to pain and problems throughout the chain.

Your feet, of course, form the foundation of your bodily chain, and the chances are good that if you have foundation issues, the problem will gradually rise through the chain, creating pain and muscle imbalances in other areas of your body. And once the pain sets in, it’s easy to become discouraged and let your good exercise intentions fall by the wayside.

With these basics in mind, here are some general guidelines for choosing the right shoes for three common forms of exercise – running, walking/hiking, and aerobics.

RUNNING

Cushioning is a crucial factor in choosing running shoes, and while you might think the more, the better, that’s not necessarily true. There are five levels of cushioning for running shoes, from the first level providing minimal cushioning to level five, suitable for long-distance running.

For the average non-marathon runner, level three or four cushioning should be adequate for daily runs and 5K or 10K racing. Whatever your choice, it’s a good idea to replace your shoes after 300 to 500 miles of running. If you’re not tracking mileage, get a new pair every year.

WALKING AND HIKING

Choosing the proper walking/hiking footwear largely depends on the terrain you’ll be covering. Low-cut walking/ hiking shoes are fine for trails without streams and obstacles. However, they don’t provide much protection or ankle support, and boots are a better option if you’re going to be off the beaten path.

AEROBICS

Running shoes are not good for indoor workouts like aerobics because they’re designed for forward movement. Indoor exercise activities often involve sideways movements, and you should look for shoes that give lateral support, along with flexibility and shock absorbency. Our exceptional staff is highly trained and understanding to the sensitive nature of sexual wellness. With years of combined experience in sexual and hormone wellness, a patient can rest assured knowing he will receive compassionate care, in a professional, yet intimate environment.