There are many things a runner can learn and do to help them become a more efficient and effective runner. Every Wednesday I will post a new 'Wednesday Workout Wisdom' tip to help.
Today's tip: Buying running shoes
One of the crucial things needed for running - running shoes. There are many places you can buy them: a department store, an online store, the trunk of a car in a parking lot (I don't recommend this), and a local running store. Most people recommend beginners get their running shoes from a local running store. I believe both beginner and experienced runners should get their running shoes there. The employees are knowledgeable with not only all the shoes in the store, but also with how to match shoes with what a runner needs. I make a special road trip to Hansons Running Shop here in Michigan when I feel it's time for a new pair. I can usually tell it's time for a new pair when the outer soles (the part of the shoe that touches the ground when you run) are significantly worn away; it's a lot like when your car's tires treads are worn down and the tires need to be replaced. Our running shoes are designed to protect our feet and enhance our running, but they can't perform these functions if they aren't 'up to par'.
You might find over time that your personal running form might have changed. You may have been a heel striker and are now hitting the ground midfoot. This would change the type of shoe you need to help give you the proper support on your run. A running store would be able to determine your foot strike and offer new shoe suggestions. That's why it's well worth the investment to go to a running store and not just any shoe store. Running stores educate their employees and customers on all aspects of running and training. These stores often hire people who are runner's themselves, because they know they'll bring their knowledge and passion to work, which they'll pass along to you when you shop there.
The shoe you love and have trained really well with might have changed with the newer model, so don't forget to research them periodically and don't be afraid to ask questions when you're out shopping. If you're still confused about any new deviations in your favorite running shoes, you can always contact the company who should be happy to answer your questions and concerns. Just like a car, shoes will change each year and although the changes may be minute, they can still have an profound impact on you. The shoe might have too much cushioning for what you need or might be too tight. A running store would able to help find a few different shoes to compare. You might find a new brand or model of shoe that fits you would never have thought of trying on before.
I have been going to Hansons Running Shop in Metro Detroit for a long time to get my running shoes. Even though I live an hour a way, it's still worth the drive. I have had my foot strike analyzed and had a weight analysis to see what area of the foot I put the most weight. Each time I go, the employees take a look at my current running shoe and offer me the new model to try on as well as some other alternatives. There have been times where I've went with one of the alternatives. I've had good luck with each shoe I've purchased there. As an extra bonus, many of the employees are elite runners for Hansons Brooks Distance Project. They Sleep, Eat and Breathe running, so they know running and shoes!
One of the great things about running is how relatively simple it is. All you need is a pair of shoes and you're ready to go. You don't need to make a huge investment, a fancy gym membership or complicated training. Just make sure you have the correct pair of shoes that are the right style, fit and feel for you will help make every mile you run happy miles.
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