When purchasing a new pair of shoes many items must be considered. Not every brand of shoes fits everyone. The toe box may be too small for your foot or it may run too narrow. If you are a runner you will want a pair of very light weight and flexible shoes. The surface you will run on must be considered. How thick is the sole. Is the toe box comfortable. Is it wide enough does the heel slip? If you are a runner, the inside padding needs to be thick enough for comfort.

The heel should fit snug around the heel of your foot. Is the shoe stable or does it roll to one side or the other. As you run is the toe box comfortable and not jamming your toes to the end of the shoe. The arch should coincide with your arch. However running shoes usually don't have much arch support.

Always have both feet measured when buying. Your feet change and shoes also change. Shoes that are too short will cause blisters on your toes and cause more serious problems as you age. You will need at least i/2 inch at the end. Try on with the socks that you will be wearing with the shoes. Buy your shoes near the end of the day as your feet may well slightly during the day especially if you have been running. Speaking of the arches, if you have a high arch you may need some arch support. There are many over the counter arch support. if you need a great fit see your podiatrist.

The life span of the shoe should be considered. Usually a runner or walking shoe should have 450-500 miles. After a year it is good to think about a new pair even if they do not have that much time. The glue gets old, your feet may change also.

Don't wait until shoes are on sale and buy several pair. AS I pointed out before your feet may change sizes or the glue tends to dry just laying in the box. I can definitely vouch for that, I have 2-3 pair that do not fit now. It is good to have another pair to change out every other day.

When walking or running there are rules we should for our safety and our health.

Drink plenty of water, drink a glass before and after your run or walk. Drink at least a cup every hour if you or endurance running or walking. If you are a large person, it may take more for you.

Do Not drink any alcoholic drinks or caffeine. before, during or after your walk. These drinks dehydrates you too much. If walking in a marathon use electrolyte sports drinks.

As well as comfort shoes, wear comfort clothing in layers very light weight. Walking or running at night be dangerous if not on a track. Wear a reflective type clothing or reflectors on your shoes for your protection. Watch the weather you may need rain proof clothing.

Look straight ahead and take deep breaths, it helps you relax. Always remember good posture. Your arms should be at 90 degrees and not hanging at your side.

Foot exercises may help to keep your feet in shape. They will also help you warm up for your run or walk. You need your run or walk shoes on. Stand on a ledge or stair and rock or bend back on the heel several times. Write the alphabet in the air with your foot. I personally think this helps me. It strengthens the ankles. I keep my walk shoes on during this exercise. Also standing on your toes rocking up and back helps.

These are just a few ideas to assist you prepare for your walk or run. The exercises could also strengthen your ankles for high-heels or low heels. It also exercises your calf muscles.

As we age we should never quit walking, if we do it is very hard to get back into your routine. We all need some exercise.

Thank you for considering my thoughts and ideas. I have been a walker or power walker for 30-35 years. I have found that I think better and clear my mind if I walk. It's a great to try and solve problems.

With Sincere Pleasure

Glenda

questions or comments

Disclaimer: After many years in the retail shoe business I have found most of these work. For foot problems of any type or foot injuries be sure to contact your physician or podiatrist. They alone can diagnose your problem. Thank You

You

Just don't get in a hurry for their first pair of shoes. Our next newsletter will discuss buying their first of pair of shoes.

With Sincere Pleasure

Glenda

Http://www.heavenlyshoes-bags.com