by N. Rodriguez

Created on: August 10, 2009   Last Updated: August 11, 2009

Running is an excellent way to stay in shape, especially when you play multiple sports. Any sport can benefit from being a good runner, because most sports require speed and endurance, both of which are acquired from running. But most runners are very prone to injury, because running pushes your body to its limits, and sometimes, the body cant take it. So, how can you help prevent injuring yourself while running? Well a good way is to make sure you have good shoes. Here are a few key points to consider when picking out a pair of running shoes.

Brand

Some people will tell you that the brand of shoe you buy does not matter, as long as you like the way that the shoe feels good on your foot, but this is not true. A brand means a lot. If a brand has withstand the test of time, and if they have risen to become an industry standard, it means they are extremely well made. So buying a brand like Nike or Asics is not a bad idea, you are not conforming to popular culture by doing so, your buying a brand that is trusted by the majority of the population, so you already know that it's good.

Weight

Now, this a subject that is debated allot. But the truth is, it is a good idea to go with the lightest shoe you can find. The heavier the shoe is, the more effort it will take to lift your feet when you run, so wearing a heavier shoe will obviously tire you out more easily.

Size

Many people don't bother getting there foot measured when they go to buy shoes, they decide to just try on many different sizes until they find one that feels OK, then they wear that size. But the truth is, it is very important that you are wearing the proper shoes size when you run to help avoid ankle injury do to your foot moving inside the shoe. So make sure that when you are at the shoe store of your choice you get your foot measured and buy the right size. Also, for younger runners, don't worry about growing out of your shoes, running shoes wear out after a few months, so you will be replacing your shoes soon anyway, make sure they are the right fit when you buy them, don't buy big and expect to grow into them.

Visual Appeal

This section is often overlooked when runners choose their shoes, but you should never forget that if you run for a team, they probably have a set color scheme for their uniforms. So it would be a good idea to try and stick within these color guidelines when choosing your sneakers.

Comfort

Comfort is arguably the most important thing to consider when selecting your running shoes. You will be running for miles and miles in these shoes, so you have to be absolutely sure that you are comfortable in them, because discomfort means something doesn't fit right, and it something doesn't fit right then it could lead to painful blisters.

Well, I hope that these guidelines can help you when you are picking out your new pair of sneakers, also, don't forget to walk around in your shoes for a little while before you begin any heavy running with the shoes, just to break them in. Breaking them in is necessary to prevent blistering, which I know from experience can be VERY painful.

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