A lot of people nowadays are going for some form of exercise – and for many, running is the best exercise. It’s not boring (especially if you run outdoors!) and allows you to build your endurance and stamina. Moreover, it works on all your muscles. Running is also great cardio – a definite plus if you’re trying to lose weight. But one of the most important aspects to consider – if not the most important – is to have the right running shoes. With all the choices out there, choosing the right one can be a real challenge. What do you need to make you run more comfortably and to give you support and stability? Are you a running beginner? Here’s how to find the best running shoes for your needs.
What to look for: the basics
First things first – there are certain rules you need to follow and different aspects you need to consider from the get-go. For instance, did you know that the static arch shape is not quite as effective as you may think? What you should always keep in mind when looking for the best women’s or men’s running shoes as a beginner is your comfort – it’s one of the most important factors that will help narrow your choices down. But aside from comfort, other factors have proven vital in anyone’s quest for the perfect beginner running shoes. These are the following:
- The forefoot or front and the back or heel should feel right underneath your feet.
- The running shoe must feel as stable as possible.
- The shoe’s front must feel flexible.
- And the shoe must feel comfortable overall – especially on the topmost portion.
What you have to remember
But there’s also one aspect to remember: everyone has different needs and preferences, so what may feel comfortable for one person may not feel the same for another. So you have to gauge it for yourself, and there is really no ‘best’ shoe – at the end of the day, it’s a personal matter.
That being said, as a new runner or beginner, you have to get used to the impact of your feet on the surface (whether it’s soil, pavement, or turf), and it may be wise to get shoes with more cushioning than usual. And as you progress and improve, especially in terms of your strength, experience, and endurance, you can begin experimenting with different running shoes – but do it slowly. Usually, runners end up with a shoe that most fits – and is the most similar to – the shoe they use for working out, running errands, going on a casual walk, or even working.
What you should avoid
If you are a beginner in running, there is one type of running shoe you should avoid: the ones built for extreme running. For example, you should avoid buying racing shoes, carbon-fiber-plated shoes, or other extreme shoe types. Of course, these types of shoes are not ‘bad’ per se – they are just not designed for beginners and recreational or daily running. The thing is, if you are a beginner at running, it’s best to get used to the activity first; you shouldn’t consider it a hard or intense workout. So have fun, and happy running!
