What You Need to Know about Footwear When Beginning an Exercise Program

What You Need to Know about Footwear When Beginning an Exercise Program

Congratulations! You’ve taken the first step in gaining control over your fitness. Beginning a training plan is the hardest part, and now it’s time to turn that decision into a consistent habit. Most exercise plans don’t require a lot of equipment, but no matter what you do you will need to get the right footwear in order to be comfortable while working out and staying injury free.

1. See an expert If you don’t know where to start to find the right pair of shoes, socks and inserts for your activity, come see us at Fleet Feet Nashville. We’ll give you a full assessment and let you try on shoes, socks and inserts to find the perfect combination for your feet.
   
2. Don’t assume your shoe size Athletic shoes are sized differently from regular shoes. Expect to go up a half size, a full size or more from what you wear on a day to day basis.
3. There is not a “best shoe” or brand While one shoe may work great for your friend or family member, that doesn’t mean that it will work well for you. Likewise, if you love a shoe from a particular brand, that doesn’t mean that any shoe from that brand will work for you. Different models from each brand are made for a specific type of foot, so finding the one that fits you the best is key.
4. Try not to think about looks This is maybe the hardest one on the whole list. Picking a shoe based on looks is a recipe for disaster. Wearing a shoe that might be totally wrong for your foot can lead to injury, soreness and pain.