You're all set to get on the fitness bandwagon.  You're psyched to get into amazing shape and want tostart your running fitness plans today! I love that kind of motivation. Now before you jump 2 feet in, lets make sure those feet are in the proper shoes for your types of workouts. We don't want to risk injury and quite often gear that's not suited for your feet or style of running training can lead to it.
Here are some key questions to answer when searching for the right shoes:
1) Short or Long Distance. What style of running will you be doing? Are you looking to run long distances or is sprinting more your thing?
2) Surface. Are you running on concrete? Grass? Track?
3) Goals. Are you training for a race or just looking to get active a few times a week?
Once you've answered these questions, its time to hit your favorite sporting goods store.  Even better, find a store that specializes in shoes for runners. The staff will be more knowledgeable and able to find your feet a perfect fit. Best to hit the store in the afternoon, as your feet tend to swell throughout the day. While running your feet also swell so you'll find an even better fit. Also, make sure to wear the socks you plan to run in.
Now if you're not familiar with your foot type (flat, high arch etc) then best to take something called "the wet test". So wet your foot and stomp on sand or tile, anything that will show off your footprint. If you have flat feet you'll be able to see your entire foot print. If you see a print that looks cut in half (vertically)
you have high arches. Another great tip is to bring in an old pair of running shoes so they can see your wear pattern.
Foot strike is the term used. Are you a heel or toe striker? This can really help to determine which shoes are best for your imbalances.
If a running fitness program is in your future, it's best to start off right from day one. Find a pair of shoes that will help you reach your goals injury free. Of course shoes are not the only things you have to be familiar with.  It's also essential to understand the proper running technique and stretching exercises before and after your run.
Here are some key questions to answer when searching for the right shoes:
1) Short or Long Distance. What style of running will you be doing? Are you looking to run long distances or is sprinting more your thing?
2) Surface. Are you running on concrete? Grass? Track?
3) Goals. Are you training for a race or just looking to get active a few times a week?
Once you've answered these questions, its time to hit your favorite sporting goods store.  Even better, find a store that specializes in shoes for runners. The staff will be more knowledgeable and able to find your feet a perfect fit. Best to hit the store in the afternoon, as your feet tend to swell throughout the day. While running your feet also swell so you'll find an even better fit. Also, make sure to wear the socks you plan to run in.
Now if you're not familiar with your foot type (flat, high arch etc) then best to take something called "the wet test". So wet your foot and stomp on sand or tile, anything that will show off your footprint. If you have flat feet you'll be able to see your entire foot print. If you see a print that looks cut in half (vertically)
you have high arches. Another great tip is to bring in an old pair of running shoes so they can see your wear pattern.
Foot strike is the term used. Are you a heel or toe striker? This can really help to determine which shoes are best for your imbalances.
If a running fitness program is in your future, it's best to start off right from day one. Find a pair of shoes that will help you reach your goals injury free. Of course shoes are not the only things you have to be familiar with.  It's also essential to understand the proper running technique and stretching exercises before and after your run.
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