There's a reason why every seasoned runner emphasizes the importance of proper footwear. Not only does this make activities more comfortable, but shoes that take into account how your feet hit the ground can help prevent injury and protect your joints in the long run. But when it comes to walking, they can be an expensive investment. Why would you buy them if you already have running shoes, right? But once you understand the differences between running and walking shoes, you may no longer think that way.
Content Why is it important to take care of your feet? Is it good to wear running shoes while walking? What is the difference between running and walking shoes
WomanEL will share an expert opinion on whether it is possible to wear running sneakers, or whether you still need to buy separate shoes.
Why it is important to take care of your feet
First of all, it is important to understand why foot care is so important. Although you may not think about your feet as often, they are one of the hardest-working parts of the body and provide the essential foundation for most forms of movement, such as walking and running.
“The feet are a very complex structure. ” explains Dina Gohil, podiatrist and foot care brand ambassador for CCS. “They make up 50% of your body's skeletal structure, and 25% of all bones in the human body are located below the ankle. Therefore, you need to take good care of them.”
It's also important to remember that everyone's feet are different. And that's why finding shoes that fit your movement is so beneficial for the overall health of your feet.
“The type of support, movement, heel strike or flexibility that different people have or need will vary,” Gohil adds. “For example, some people may have a higher or lower arch, and some may have more pronation or supination.”
Is it good to wear running shoes while walking?
Is it possible to walk in running shoes, Source: freepik.com
Now that we've established the basics, let's get to the big question – should you wear running shoes or should you bite the bullet and invest in shoes specifically designed for walking?
Olly Lowes, Head of Sales EMEA at high-performance brand On, believes that wearing running shoes isn't just okay—it can be beneficial. “Running puts about three times your body weight on your body, and the cushioning in running shoes is designed to handle that increased impact. Since walking has less impact, the cushioning in the shoe should be more than adequate.”
However, Lowes emphasizes, this largely depends on the type of walking you plan to do. The shoes can be used on flat surfaces, but if you plan to tackle rougher terrain, you may want to consider extra support.
Rebecca Sessions, RD, agrees. “As a physical therapist, I would encourage you to choose shoes that are designed specifically for the activity you are going to participate in,” she says.
“While running shoes are typically designed to provide cushioning and support when running, it is possible that they do not provide the same level of support and stability during activities such as walking or hiking.”
Sessions continues: “If you If you walk slower than you run, your foot will contact the ground differently. Therefore, the shoes you wear must be able to withstand these changes.”
What's the Difference Between Running and Walking Shoes
Both walking and running shoes will provide extra cushioning to keep your feet comfortable during your workout. But the support and grip they provide usually varies slightly. Running shoes are designed to provide midfoot support, cushioning, and some flexibility.
Other differences:
- Running shoes have a thick wedge in the heel for more cushioning.
- Motion control. Because the foot rotates more intensely during running, most running shoes provide motion control to keep the foot more neutral. Walking shoes tend to provide less stability because they are not necessary.
- Weight. The shoes are lightweight and allow you to move faster. Walking shoes aren't necessarily heavy, but they are always heavier than running shoes.
“The flexibility of running shoes can be beneficial. But it's not for everyone, as some people may need a more structured base that keeps their ankles from sagging while hiking,” says Sessions. “Hiking shoes are excellent because they are designed for uphill terrain, have good structure and grip, often provide good ankle support, and have a deep toe box to protect toenails.”
The durability of walking shoes also makes them more suitable for harsh terrain that you may encounter while walking in a natural setting.
So, the conclusion. If you're thinking about taking up walking, running shoes are the way to go. However, if you plan to navigate uneven and unfavorable terrain, it may be better to invest in shoes that will keep you safe and comfortable.
To make running easier for you, there are a few clever tricks shared by a sports psychologist.< /p>
Źródło informacji
