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Choosing Running Shoes

Saturday, July 19th, 2008

One of the most important pieces of equipment to a runner is their shoes. Choosing the right running shoes is important for any distance runner. They support your body and keep it safe and healthy while you run. Even if you don’t run that much, you should invest in a good pair of running shoes. We all know that a shoe should feel comfortable, but there are other things you may not think of. Here are a few tips on selecting the right pair.

· Get enough support. A good pair of running shoes should feel snug all around your foot. This means that your whole foot is being supported. If you can’t find a pair of shoes with the right support, buy some orthotic inserts.

· Examine the shoes. Besides trying on the shoes at the store, you should look and feel the shoes as well. Check to see if they feel strong and well made. Also check for padding and other shock absorption factors.

· Get the right size. Many people think about how their arches feel in shoes and totally ignore their toes. To avoid toe damage, get shoes that are half an inch longer than your farthest reaching toe. Also, since your feet spread out as you walk and stand during the day; try to shop for shoes at night when your feet are bigger.

· Don’t use worn out shoes. Shoes eventually lose their ability to absorb shock after about 400 miles. Keep track of your mileage and replace your shoes accordingly. You may need to replace them more often depending on your running style.

To learn more you can go to how to buy running shoes or go to my forum and ask a question and I will address it personally.

If you have any questions or topics you would like for me to talk about Email them. Until next time, have a Great Run. Sign up for my newsletter for more tips.
Thanks,
John
TheRunnersGuide

Winter Running Gear

Saturday, January 19th, 2008

I receive many e-mails about what is the best gear to wear in extreme weather conditions. The elements can be brutal sometimes and you need to make sure you are wearing the right clothes. Winter running gear has changed, making it more bearable to run in the subfreezing temperatures.

When dressing for the winter it’s important to wear layers of clothing. The base layer should be a moisture wicking shirt. The shirt wicks the moisture away from the skin making it more comfortable to run. In the past I would wear the cotton shirts and when I finished my run that horrible feeling of wetness was on my skin.

Another item you want to buy is a good outer shell jacket and pants. Make sure you find a jacket that is wind and waterproof. It makes a huge difference when it is cold, wet and windy outside. During the winter, I usually come back sweating from the jacket because it protects me from the elements so well. A good jacket and pair of pants will cost you $150 to $200. The best time to purchase these items at a great price is when the winter season is over and stores want to get rid of the current clothing to bring in the new. You can as much as 50% on many items.
To learn more you can go to running gear.

If you have any questions or topics you would like for me to talk about Email them and I will address them personally and include them in my videos. Until next time, have a Great Run. Sign up for my newsletter for more tips.
Thanks,
John
TheRunnersGuide