Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing the Right Shoes for Fitness Training

The right pair of shoes can make all the difference when it comes to enjoying your workout, yet most people are wearing the wrong types of shoes as they pursue their daily health and fitness goals. And like many things in life, there are a number of common mistakes that people make when choosing a new pair of sports shoes.

Mistake #1: Wearing any old shoes

When people haven’t exercised in a while and decide to embark on a new fitness program, they will often grab whatever pair of sneakers they have lying around the house. While this may be convenient, it’s not necessary very good for your feet, ankles or knees. Old shoes are often worn and lack support where it’s needed. If you’re committed to reaching your fitness goal, new shoes are as important as your gym membership, sports equipment or workout clothes.

Mistake #2: Choosing the wrong shoe

There are literally thousands of sports shoes on the market so it’s no wonder people often choose the wrong shoe. Before buying a new pair of sports shoes it’s important to know what type of activity you will be doing. While it may seem simple enough – running shoes for running, walking shoes for walking, tennis shoes for tennis etc., there is a big variance between running shoes for stability, running shoes for a pronator or running shoes for a supinator. (good shoe stores can help you determine what style you are)

Choosing a new pair of shoes involves more than simply walking into a shoe store, trying on a pair of shoes to see if they’re comfortable and paying for them. When you are ready to buy a new pair of sports shoes visit a sports store or a sports-specific shoe store and have your shoes fitted by a professional. They will be able to assess your foot and help you select the best shoe for your foot and your workout.

Mistake #3: You wear them everywhere

When you buy a pair of sports shoes specifically to workout in, make sure this is the only time you wear them. Yes, your new sports shoes may be comfortable and may look great but if you are wearing them everywhere, you’ll wear them out and they will lose their effectiveness to support and protect your feet. Instead, buy a second a pair for running around town in. This is a great option if there is a pair of sports shoes you love but aren’t suited to your feet for your workouts.

Mistake #4: You need to say goodbye

Too many people hold onto their sports shoes til they are well pass their prime. If you have had your current shoes for a while and you’ve noticed that the arches of your feet are hurting whenever you take them off or you have aches and pains in your lower body that aren’t normal for you, it’s probably time to say goodbye to your favourite shoes and buy a new pair.

Sports shoes are meant to offer support as you work out. If your guilty of any of the mistake above (and we all are at some stage!), it’s time to head to the shops for some shoe shopping.