Trainer advice

[Withitmum1]

Finally ready to invest in my first pair of serious trainers but I feel paralyzed at the thought of spending all that money and not getting the right shoe for me. I previously bought a pair on clearance at a discount shop but had no help and they are not supportive enough. Any tips on finding the right fit... maybe a previous post you can direct me to?

[Sadie-runs Graduate]

I would recommend going to a specialist running shop. In London we have Run and Become (it might be nationwide, but not sure). They take care and attention to make sure they get the best shoe for you and even analyse your running gait! It is really worth it, and a good shoe with the right support can make all the difference! I know the cost can be scary - but in the long run invaluable especially if they prevent injury! I also find spending money a motivator- I mean jeez Louise, if I have spent all that on shoes I'm gonna get my money's worth out of them! Happy running, Withitmum1!

[Coyesq]

You're worth it

Look after yourself

Mind you people run with all sorts of foot wear world over and some without shoes at all

Personally I get decent shoes is a good idea

[McFitty Graduate]

Have a look at some previous posts on 'gait analysis'. I went through most of the programme in an old comfy pair of skechers but suffered with niggly knee pain and quite a bit of calf and shin discomfort. Following gait analysis, I was told I needed running shoes with more support rather than cushioning and an extra wide fit. I duly took out a second mortgage to purchase said shoes and have to say the difference was immediate and amazing (and worth every penny).

Find a good running shop that does gait analysis. I used Runners World if I remember right and they were super helpful and talked me through the whole process. Some places do the gait analysis for free. I think I paid £15 which came off the price of the shoes.

Good luck😊

[Withitmum1 Graduate in reply to McFitty]

Thanks! I will look into that.

[reluctantrunner76 Graduate]

I would just go into the shop with the mindset to get the ones that are comfiest and fit your needs best. Give yourself plenty of time and ask all the questions you want and try on loads. Then fit all that within your budget and you should be ok! Good luck:)!!!

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate]

Many folk on here recommend a dedicated Running shop... for gait analysis... your shoes are, next to you, your best piece of gear!

There are always bargains to be had too... colours which are too funky for folk ( except folk like me:)) and are not popular or last year's stock... I love that sort of bargain!!!

Lots of posts on this

[davelinks Graduate]

Definitely get a free gait analysis and fitting done, no need to payout on this! Find a local specialist running store, Run and become have stores in London SW1, Cardiff & Edinburgh, there is also up and running & intersport and runners need stores that are nationwide..

[Cornet-Carolyn Graduate]

I brought shoes which seem ok but as a newbie I was a bit concerned about cost so went mid range. I think I may go to a specialist shop now to be sure, especially with the replies saying it can help your running. Enjoy your new shoes!

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

I was sceptical about gait analysis until I had it done before buying my first pair of road shoes.

Running on a treadmill for just a minute, you are videoed and then the operative will make suggestions for shoes that may improve your gait and then you run again, trying them out.

When I put on the suggested shoes, my knees and ankles came into perfect vertical alignment and my push off now came from my inner toes as opposed to my small toe previously. This made perfect sense mechanically and, possibly coincidentally, I have had no running injuries since.

I found being parted from so much money for footwear quite a shock, but once you know what suits you it is possible to search the net for a lower price. It is the best investment you will make.

[Rockette]

I'd definitely go to a running shop and get gait checked . I went to sweatshop and was advised to get a neutral shoe I also must have been feeling flush coz they talked me into special insoles which where personal to me put me on this heat pad and moulded them to my foot . I forked out £145 That day in sweat shop ,but I can honestly say I haven't had one niggle and I've one more run to do to graduate . You can get cheaper models so check it out . Good luck