Monday, June 13, 2011

How to Choose the Right Shoes for your Active Lifestyle


Being active is a necessity to maintain your health and wellness. Whether it’s hitting the gym for a daily workout routine, being a part of a sports team or partaking in regular outdoor activities, working out is key for a sustainable lifestyle. And having the right work out gear is equally as important. Just as you wouldn’t step out into a rainstorm without an umbrella, you shouldn’t set foot in the gym until you’ve got the essentials, most importantly the right workout shoes.

Every person has different workout habits, so the most important thing to focus on is finding the right pair of shoes that supports those activities. For example, if you’re a runner who has flat arches, you should invest in a pair of motion control running shoes that are heavy and durable, whereas if you are a runner with very high arches, you should look for a pair of sneakers that are very cushioned, to support your foot. Not everyone is a runner. Some are joggers. And some people are walkers.

A lot of people (especially those who have knee problems) prefer more low impact activities like power or uphill walking, which is less stressful on the joints. In that case, look for a shoe that is comfortable. Test it out on stairs and inclines. Bend the shoe and make sure there’s some resistance. You’ll find that cross-trainers are more modeled after running shoes, which is great for the hardcore walker, whereas casual walking shoes from brands like Coach shoes can work (and look great!) if you’re just out for a simple stroll. The important thing is not to stress about working out – it’s about getting out there and doing something that you enjoy. Oftentimes, this can be an activity with a friend, spouse or pet, which can help you to make the time pass quicker.

Today, our on-the-go society is even more obsessed with packing as many activities as possible into one day. Therefore, more stay-at-home moms are combining errands with working out. So how can you get the most out of simple running-around-town-activities like going to the grocery store and the post office? New Balance toning shoes are the best of both worlds. They are a comfortable sneaker for casual wear, plus, they claim to actually make your muscles work harder, and provide added toning benefits. They’re a great choice for amping up your day to day routine and giving you a little pep in your step.

If you’re an outdoorsy type, seek out a proper hiking shoe or hiking boot that will have you hitting the trails in style and comfort. Make sure that you pay attention to the grip of the shoe, the breathability, the durability and the weight. And after a long day on the trail, be sure to give your feet a rest. Sheepskin EMU boots can be a great cozy addition at the end of a long challenging workout day. As with any workout, you should give your body time to recover to recuperate.

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