Yoga Articles Walking Exercise

• Tweet
• 

You may also want to choose your shoes depending on whether you want shoes to aid recreational walking or for specialized walking marathons. Whether the shoes are for long distance treks or a short hike, make sure that comfort comes first. A pair of uncomfortable walking shoes could lead to bruising and injury.

Here are five things to keep in mind when shoe shopping:

Running Versus Walking shoes:

This is an eternal dilemma for shoe shoppers. It is wise to scrounge store aisles for both before you make your decision. This is because several shoe brands innovate with their line of running shoes more than their walking shoes.

That said, shoes are designed according to the activity they are meant to complement. For example, walking shoes are heavier since they provide more cushioning for the heel. Unlike running, you do not need a range of motion for walking, so they may be less flexible than running shoes. Since your feet require less grip during walking than while running, a pair of walking shoes would have an easier and more comfortable fit than running shoes that have to grip tight around the ankles.

Also check for:

• Fit: Before you buy a pair of shoes, walk into a sporting goods store and get yourself fitted from a shoe expert. Try on walking, running, and cross training shoes to know the difference. Make sure your foot has enough space in the toe box-the shoe should be wide enough to allow free toe movement. Allow half an inch distance between your toes and the end of the shoe. Check that your heel does not slip and the shoe should not bind or pinch.
• Flex: When you are looking for a pair of comfortable walking shoes you want to look for flexible soles specially designed to promote the easy roll of the foot from heel to toe-your natural walking motion.
• Flat: Compare the sole under the ball of your foot and the heel of the shoe. The heel should not be more than an inch higher than the sole. Walkers strike first with the heel and then role mid-step. A higher heel will arch your feet causing injury.
• Flare: A heel that is thick or one that stands out would cause your foot to slam down rather than roll. This will restrict forward momentum and may increase the chance of painful shins. Look for a heel that bevels in.

Additionally, look for shoes that have sweat wicking features like mesh or sole inserts. Go shoe shopping at the end of the day when your feet are slightly swollen. Try a pair of shoes with and without socks to know the difference in size.

Invest in a pair of comfortable walking shoes. Better still, invest in two! The constant use may wreck them faster than you think. So if you get a good deal, buy that extra pair.

Read more articles from the Walking Exercise Category.