Finding the right running shoes
This post is very important to us at the Coopah HQ. We often hear of people new to running picking up strains and typical running injuries like joint issues or Plantar Fasciitis and often people do not know about the importance of running shoes. Having the right shoes tailored to you and where you are on your running journey is vital. If you have the wrong shoes you can increase your risk of injury and hamper your running experience. Here are our top 4 tips regarding running shoes.
Tip 1 - Get your running gait assessed
Running gait analysis is a technique used to help determine the best shoe for you. There is no single stand-out running shoe and each of us is unique so we have different requirements. Some of us have wide flat feet and others have narrow feet with high arches so it’s important to find the right shoe for you. Gait analysis will help you to understand your foot pronation which describes the direction your foot moves from side to side when you run. Some of us have a neutral gait, but some of us overpronate. There are two options when assessing your gait:
Option 1 - Do it yourself
Check out this fantastic blog from Sports Shoes demonstrating how you can anlayse your gait. They also have a free online tool you can you. Coopah members also get 10% discount at Sports Shoes and free post and packaging. Download our app today and sign up to receive discount.
Option 2 - Head to a running store
Runners Need has over 40 stores in the UK and All Runners Need stores offer free gait analysis.
Tip 2 - Invest in the right shoe for you
We know that running shoes are not cheap, but you have to see them like an investment. A good pair of running trainers can help you complete 300-500 miles so investing in the right pair will help you to enjoy as many of those miles as possible.
Tip 3 - Don’t be picky on brand
We all have different designs that we like, but it’s important to go with a brand that suits your profile. It can be easy to go for the shiny colour you like, but if your gait analysis suggests a certain type of shoe, don’t be tempted to deviate!
Tip 4 - It’s ok to have more than one pair
If you are running lots of miles consistently it is ok to invest in multiple shoes for different race types and terrains. Keep an eye on the sole of your shoe to see how the tread is degrading and make sure you swap out your shoes when they have run their course (no pun!)
So that’s it for today’s blog. Remember strength, nutrition and stretching all help to manage injuries. Having the right shoes is not a silver bullet, but it will go a long way to helping you stay injury-free.