running shoes

[GaMMAfan]

Okay I am a fat bastard and got sick of it so I've recently started dieting and running every day as there is a new Muay Thai place being built right down the street and I want to shape up before going in there to train. I didn't think I would stay with it so I just bought a $15 pair of Prospirit shoes to run in. Well I've been running every day for the last two weeks and am really starting to like it, so my question is, will nicer running shoes help me get more out of my excercise? Also I've been getting these pains in my lower shins with small swollen patches over them. Are these what people call 'shin splints'? Thanks.

[Revok]

Yes, you are feeling the joy of shin splints. Run on grass and you'll be fine.

Price doesn't always equate to quality with running shoes, and sadly go-faster stripes, pump up soles and hip logos tend not to have any effect on your speed or endurance. If you're experiencing any form of discomfort with your current footwear go get yourself a moderately priced pair of Asics - their website has a questionnaire that will help you find the ideal pair based on your running style and preferences, and unlike all other brands of trainers I've tried, Asics are as comfy as old slippers from the day you put them on, and they last forever.

[RJ43]

Yeah I agree Asics are the way to go. I used to run with a pair of Nike Shox Basketball shoes and it was hell. They were too heavy and had virtually no ventilation. For me the lighter the better when it comes to running shoes.

I got Nubalance, its great shoes also. its considered #2 next to Asics which are the best from what I've read from Runners magazine.

I haven't had shin splits since playing football in HS. I did track also and my coach made us walk on the heels of our feet just so theres likely to get shin splints ever and it also grows muscles around it.

Asics. Agree with the others.

[Teemu]

I can't tell you how important good shoes are. I personally use Asics but basically the brand isn't a factor if the shoes are good.

Also since you said you are a heavy guy, how about not running in a tarmac? With good shoes, proper streching before running and not running in tarmac should eliminate possible pains.

[ironbuddah]

Going from not running to running everyday is a mistake. No wonder you have shin splints. ease into it.

I like the Nike Free running shoe. i used to run in Asics but the Frees feel like you're running barefoot.

Before you decide on a shoe, though, go to a running store and have them help you. They'll give you the best advice anyone can give since they can look at your arch and where you strike.

[subgrap]

adidas running shoes have always worked well for me. Probably not a good Idea to go from doing nothing to running everyday. try every other day for a bit and then work up. congrats on getting back in shape, don't give up!

[U.S. Soldier]

Take it easy on the running, you are just starting. If you are used to running, its good to run every day but try to run every other day. Thats how the Army gets ppl in shape in Basic Training and eventually, you will be running miles

[big nookoo]

Originally Posted by Teemu

I can't tell you how important good shoes are. I personally use Asics but basically the brand isn't a factor if the shoes are good.

Good advice here. Shoes are essentially protective gear for your feet, but also for your entire muscle and skeletal structure (due to the transmission of impact throughout the feet, shins, knees, thighs, hips, and lower back when running).

The Asics site will be helpful in terms of identifying your needs and issues (do I pronate, over-pronate, under-pronate, etc...). If you're really intending to make running a part of your routine, some higher-end running stores will do a gait analysis to help match you to the right shoe. It can be tough to figure out if the store is actually focused on helping serious runners or using gait analysis as a sales technique, so try to talk with runners or tri-athletes to get a recommendation.