Running shoe advice: where to start?

Shoes! Let’s talk shoes. It’s super important to find the perfect match for you. It took me years to finally figure out what worked best for me. I used to run in Adidas or Saucony, but for the last 5 years straight I am Asics

GT-2000 series all the way. My husband always loved his, so I decided to give them a try myself. They are super supportive and feel great to run in, especially when the miles start to add up during race season.

During training for my first half marathon, I was starting to get pain in my right hip flexor after mile 7 on my long runs. Part of the problem was I didn’t to much strength training so my body was trying to compensate my weak spots during those long runs. But, to make sure my Asics weren’t the problem, I went to a running store where they assess your actual stride and make sure your shoes are good for your running style. I highly recommend doing so, whether you run for short or long distances. They made sure my shoes still had enough life left in them to run my race, and recommended an insert to help with my discomfort. The cool part about the insert was it wasn’t expensive at all, maybe $30, and it lasts long enough for 3 pairs of shoes! I haven’t had a problem since.

So here’s my advice for a starting point. Go find a local store that assesses your gait and start from there. Have them take a look at your shoes and how you run. Certain brands are excellent for support, and others are great for over pronation, so it’s really good to get a shoe that works with you based on how you run. There isn’t a one size fits all shoe, especially when it comes to running. Once you find that perfect shoe and insert combination, you’ll be ready to hit the track!

Have you had your gait assessed? What shoes do you love for running?

Happy running!

Warmly,

Dani

6 great reasons to go run!

6 great reasons to go run!

“Running”. Does the word cause you to crinkle your nose? Do you begin to sweat by just thinking about it? To be perfectly honest, during this colder time of year, I run far less than I do during the warmer months. But the cold shouldn’t be a reason to keep you from lacing up those running shoes! As we near the start of a new year, maybe you’re thinking of starting to run. Here are 6 great reasons to go run!

Me and my friend and running buddy Maria
Me and my friend and running buddy Maria

1. Go run with a friend.

Running doesn’t have to be a solo activity. Use it to spend time with a friend, and have some fun with it!

2. It’s a fabulous cardiovascular workout.

Your heart will thank you for all that awesomeness you’re doing for it! Just make sure to wear a heart monitor to keep an eye on it 🙂

3. It’s a killer blast to the legs, creating definition and strength.

Say hello to those hamstrings, quadriceps, hip flexors, and calves. Running also involves the arms, therefore providing an additional calorie burning effect. Woohoo!

4. It’s free!

No gym membership needed, and no equipment necessary (although running shoes can be quite expensive). Just walk outside your door or go to your favorite scenic spot for a little slice of the great outdoors. Its all-natural, too!

5. Running can make you happier.

There’s a major boost to those endorphine levels, and it also helps you release some of the tension and stress you may have. Smile!

6. It revvs your metabolism.

What a great way to both burn a significant amount of calories as well as boost that metabolism for up to 24 hours after your run. Make sure you replenish your body with nutritious foods both before and after your run.

Now, I realize that running simply isn’t for everyone. People that have serious health, heart, or knee issues, or other severe injuries who are advised by their doctor to not run should probably take their advice. Otherwise, you should go for it!  It is a fabulous workout, and your body will thank you. Well, maybe not until afterwards 😉 Now, go run!

What is your reason to go run?

No, it isn’t always easy, but stay tuned for some great tips on how to best prepare to have a great run!

Happy sweating!

Warmly,

Dani