PICK THE RIGHT TRAINERS
Don’t go by looks alone – it’s important to think about what you’ll use your trainers for and to consider your foot motion. You don’t necessarily need a different pair of shoes for every sport you participate in but generally you’ll need sport-specific shoes for sports you play more than three times a week. Proper-fitting sports shoes can help to correct your gait, enhance your performance and prevent injuries. Running: If you’re going to be pounding the pavement, choose shoes with more cushioning and shock absorption. Stability in the heel area as well as lightness and good traction are vital, as is a breathable upper. Walking: Look for lightweight shoes with a soft upper, good shock absorption and a smooth tread. Extra shock absorption in the heel is vital to help to reduce heel pain as well as burning and tenderness in the ball of the foot. Shoes with rocker bottom (slightly rounded) soles help to shift weight from the heel to the toes. Aerobic activity: Lightweight shoes with extra shock absorption in the sole beneath the ball of the foot are ideal. Court sports, such as tennis: Choose shoes that support the foot during quick side-to-side movements; the shoes should provide flexibility in the sole beneath the ball of the foot. On soft courts, choose softer soled shoes that allow for better traction. On hard courts soles with good tread are best. Cross training: Good cross trainers should be versatile enough that you can use them for different activities. Look for a comfy pair with breathable material on top that’s supportive throughout. Cross trainers should have more traction than walking or running shoes.