Correct shoes so very important.

[Jonny1]

I have had to reduce the distance that I was running by quite a margin because of knee pain. I have postponed runs, used loads of ice with my legs raised and taken anti inflamatories, all of which didn't do much to help.

I then found a running shop in Leicester where I live, that is owned by a passionate runner who is a professor in bio-mechanics. They do "gait testing" which is basically a treadmill with cameras pointing at your legs and feet, attached to a computer. You do a short run with your current shoes and then they basically fit you to a shoe that supports your running style.

Well, it cost me £100 for a pair of shoes which took the best part of an hour to find. I must admit, even after I had bought the shoes, I was a little sceptical. They told me to wear them for an hour or so at home and, if I wasn't entirely happy with them, they would have another go with another pair or give me a refund (less £30 for the gait analysis).

Well, I postponed wearing them for a while thinking it was maybe a gimmick. After two weeks not using them, and the knee pain not improving, I gave them a try on a 5k run.

It has now been about 4 weeks. I have taken the shops advice and gradually worked my way up to 10k, 4 times a week, and the knee pain has all but gone. No more anti inflamatories or ice and no pain immediately after the run. I can even go up and down stairs without holding the bannister.

I just thought that I would give everyone the benefit of my experience as I made the mistake of going into a high street sports shop with no experienced staff and just bought a pair of running shoes because they looked good and were a recognized brand. I could have saved myself a lot of pain and heartache and I even considering giving it up!

Anyone out there that is getting knee pain or starting the program, get the correct shoes as it is so important. If there is somewhere near you that you can have a Gait analysis done, do it as it is not a gimmick and really will help.

[SBG356 Graduate]

I agree 100% with you Jonny. Luckily I didnt have to go through the pain first as I got my gait analysis and shoes before I started this (it was my way of making me do this!) and I have had no problems whatsoever.

I know some here have managed to run in old trainers and had no problems but I personally think this is the execption rather than the rule and like you would encourage everyone to do this, especially if they are currently experiencing any sort of aches and pains.

Sue

[rolphie2 Graduate]

I agree whole heartedly with you, also found that tight running socks helped!