What trainers?

[Bookworm20]

I didn’t want to buy anything new before I started in case I couldn’t do it but have just done W2 R1 and am loving it. Thinking of giving it a couple more weeks and then treating myself to some proper running shoes.

What running shoes do you recommend and how much are they realistically going to cost as I can’t afford to spend a lot, thanks

[Jay66UK Graduate]

Shoes are a funny thing. Our feet are all different, as are our running styles. For running, what’s great for me may be rubbish for you.

I was advised here to go and get “gait analysis”. Find a local running shop and they should have a treadmill in the store. They will get you to run in some “neutral” shoes and then watch on video how your feet move and land and suggest shoes to match.

I have a ”neutral” gait, so I can wear most usual trainers and it all comes down to comfort and fit. You may have feet with “under-pronation” or “over-pronation”, which need shoes for that particular gait.

If you currently get any foot or leg pain (beyond just the usual aches of exercise) the you definitely need to look critically at your shoes.

You are probably looking at £75 to £150 for a decent pair of shoes. But (next to a sports bra for ladies) this is your main piece of safety equipment and proper fitting shoes will keep you off the injury couch and make longer runs more comfortable.

[misswobble Graduate]

Lidl have some in today at £14.99😎. Otherwise £50 upwards. There are bargains though on last year’s models -or earlier - so,don’t be shy to ask

A proper, dedicated running shop is the best place to go. They will be runners themselves and are best placed to fit you for your new shoes If, for any reason you are not happy with your new shoe they will sort you out, no probs

[Flyingred Graduate]

I agree with Jay66UK that feet do vary so much plus there are big differences in sizing between the manufacturers. So you need to try some on in a shop, to get an idea of size and fit, even if you leave empty-handed and buy online. There are many review websites which give an indication of sizing (and Amazon is pretty useful too).

I've read lots of advice about going to a specialist running shop, however, getting that level of sales assistance is beyond my personal comfort zone as I don't feel I'm experienced and knowledgeable enough about running yet. (I'm happy with an 80% solution at 40% of the price).

That said, sportshoes.com has an excellent advice section and their 'wet footprint test' is useful in pointing you towards the type of shoe that will suit you. Their website also has a running shoe finder. I have no connection with them except as a satisfied customer.

Most of the respected brand running shoes seem to retail around £120 and up. I saved some £££ by buying a previous year's model which was reduced to £40 (I love a bargain). Although as the bug takes hold I can see me joining the arms race and buying 'this year's model' for the full price at some point! Happy shopping!

[Jay66UK Graduate in reply to Flyingred]

Completely understand the reluctance to go to a running shop. I felt the same. My experience couldn’t have been better - explained I was doing Couch to 5k and needed advice on what to get. The guy in the store couldn’t have been more welcoming and helpful. I went late morning on a weekday to avoid the crowds. For someone with a fair bit of social anxiety, it was a good experience for me.

[Flyingred Graduate in reply to Jay66UK]

I'm pleased it worked out well for you. Wild horses wouldn't drag me into a running shop to run on a treadmill so that a bunch of expert runners could video my efforts! Maybe in a year or two....

[davelinks Graduate]

Here's an essential read for the new runner, view the link below and a link within that about which shoes..

healthunlocked.com/couchto5...