Advice on trainers

[Corrigans]

Hi, I have just completed week 3 and moving on to Wk 4 and feeling very nervous. Total new to running but have to say I am loving the plan. Anyone recommend the best trainers? I just decided one night I was doing this, but I don't think I have the best - any recommendations greatly appreciated

[telford_mike Graduate]

Hi, and welcome! There's a great article here : healthunlocked.com/couchto5...

Well done for getting this far, and good luck with week 4!

[Irish-John Graduate]

I spend more money on my running shoes than I ever thought I would spend on any footware - including the rather "specialised" boots I used to wear for work.

And I do it happily If you break it down, it's a lot less than going to the (increasingly pathetic) movies, that extra pint in your local and the impulse buying of unhealthy snacks/takeaways over the "running" lifetime of the shoes. Then you can use them for walking and get even more use from them

Just as there is no "best" Bespoke tailors though - there is no "best" shoe. Personal footshape, gait etcwill determine what is "best" for you. There are of course "reliable" manufacturers when it comes to "value for money" but what is most important - like going to a "proper" tailor for a "good suit" - is going to a real Running shop instead of a shop that just sells "running shoes" 😉

And, if you read the "Newbie" posts of us graduates you will see we were all "nervous" of each stage and increase in times But - we are all exactly who the programme was designed for so you are certainly going to make it, slow and steadily ( less than ten percent do it in 9 weeks/with distance anyway ☺)

Wishing you many happy miles in your future ☺

[MarkyD Graduate]

Are you a neutral runner, or do you over- or underpronate? What surfaces do you run on, and for what distance, and what frequency? Do you prefer a more cushioned shoe (this might make you land on your heel and is not recommended) or are you a mid-foot runner? Do you prefer a more stiff, supportive shoe and what about toe-heel level? Some shoes today are level, whilst others have a more traditional heel-toe drop of about 10-12mm.

I can recommend a brand, or even a colour. But that won't answer any of these questions and you could easily get some shoes that are not bio-mechanically suited to your running.

Go visit your local independent running shop and ask them to analyse your gait, and recommend shoes suitable for you.