The right trainers?

[run1988]

Hello all,

I have just started week 2 of the plan and I was thinking, have many of you invested in some proper running trainers? I have a pair of comfy Nike which seem to do me fine but i read that not wearing the correct type of trainer can lead to knee damage and other issues.

There is a shop near me which does a few tests on you in store and gets you to do a run on a treadmill to assess how you run and then recommend trainers. Just wondered if this is necessary or perhaps i am over thinking this a lot lol Not sure i can invest in a pair of £90 trainers just yet...

Thanks

[Ladyidle Graduate]

Good shoes are essential in running, as in the rest of life. I waited until I'd done Wk 5, which seemed like a real milestone, and celebrated by buying new shoes. Not a moment too soon, as I had felt a bit of a knee twinge that week, but am pleased to report that I haven't had any knee problems since then (touching wood as I speak!).

[Dunder2004 Graduate]

I would say continue with your Nikes for the time being. If you begin to experience any discomfort in your knees/ankles/hips then it might be time to consider an upgrade.

Gait analysis is not necessary for everyone and it is perfectly possible to get a great pair of running shoes at a much more reasonable price - often a year or two old model of the £90+ shoes that the running shops have on display.

[elllou51 Graduate]

Hi, I have just started week 4, and bought some proper shoes at the start of week 3. Up until then I was running in some cheap Fila trainers that were on a stand outside a local sports shop. They were fine, but I have to say, in comparison to my 'proper' shoes, they are far inferior. I asked for advice on here too and everyone was great.

I went to Sweatshop and they do gait analysis etc etc, as you mention above, and running on a treadmill. They also took into account the fact I have a foot complaint (tarsal tunnel), and recommended 3 different pairs. I made my selection and also bought some insoles. These are a necessity, but because of the tarsal tunnel I wanted to support my foot as much as possible. They were not cheap and the shoes were £110 plus the insoles. BUT.....after speaking to a running friend, she has said to me that is a pretty standard amount of money for running shoes. I have to say, my new ones are very comfortable and I'm pleased I bought them. I can completely understand you wanting to wait a little while before purchasing though. But...if you do, I can recommend Sweatshop.

[Vixchile Graduate]

I started out in some trainers and bought them because i needed a new pair for work. I then did a wet foot test as no where does gait analysis like the uk, they have what appears to be the equipment but in each own sport branded shop but i have never seen it performed. Anyway, i purchased some Nike shoes and they haver served me well....however i am about to test them as my running is going further. I would say if your ok for the moment. Look around for different running shops and then go in when your a bit more into the programme. Its a real investment - especially when your clocking up the km each month. Also after the initial assessment and first full purchase you will know what shoe you need and the next time when you need to change shoes you can look in the sales.

[Hidden]

having your gait analysis done and getting the right shoes is very important , will save you from unnecessary injuries further down the line , if you feel it is the right time to have done that good but if you want to wait longer that is good too

[run1988]

Thank you all, very helpful! I think it's clear to see its a worthy investment! x