The right equipment

From hours of training and experimenting with different running shoes I found that the right shoes really do make a difference. Thousands of us have had to stop training due to blisters, shin splints, chafing and I am convinced the right equipment can keep away any annoying and time consuming injuries. It’s important to note that everyone has different running styles, you have to ask yourself, Do you overpronate? Underpronate? or are you a neutral runner? It’s important to know because shoes can be designed to aid your posture, reducing the risk of injury and improving performance.

If your print looks like this.

You are an underpronator / supinator and have a high arched foot. This print will leave a very thin band on the lateral side (outside of the foot) or none at all, between the heel and forefoot. This is because most underpronators are forefoot runners, only using the heel down hill. This curved, highly arched foot does not pronate sufficiently and requires a lot of cushioning.

b: If your print looks like this.

You have a normal foot plant and are a mild overpronator. A normal foot usually leaves approximately half the footprint - the lateral (outside) part. The foot plant lands on the outside of the heel and rolls inward slightly to absorb shock while moving off the big toe.

You require a Stability shoe. A stability shoe has a good blend of cushioning, pronation control features and durability. Added support will not do you any harm and could be beneficial.

c: If your print looks like this.

You have a flatter foot and require a motion control shoe. This foot leaves a print of the whole of the foot. This is because the arch collapses through the foot motion. The foot strikes at the heel and rolls inwards excessively - this is more severe overpronation. If you are a serious overpronator and do not wear the correct shoes then you are much more likely to get injuries (especially knee and hip injuries) when running.

If you have a flat foot pattern then try shoes with Motion Control characteristics. Motion Control shoes are designed to strongly limit the inward rolling of the foot. They are rigid and generally heavier in weight. They are best for moderate to severe overpronators who need maximum support.

If you are unsure I recommend going to a specialist running shop. I got my shoes from the Running outlet in Canterbury city centre and noticed the difference straight away.  Invest in the right shoes and you will be glad you did.