4 minute read
MARTIN MURRAY
from GNI MAG ISSUE 43
by GNI MAG
HEALTH AND FITNESS //
MARTIN MURRAY
DUE TO THE INNOVATION OF THE
health and fitness community over the last year, we are now working out in ways we never experienced. One issue I have found in adapting to new ways is that the shoes I use for the gym are no good in certain terrains so I thought I would look at how shoes can help and hinder performance. Time to kick off those Gucci loafers and look at function over form.
Park Life
Grass is a great surface for runners. Grass is soft, has less impact and less rebound. Your legs will have to work harder on grass and become stronger which also helps with endurance and stamina.
Your time will be slower on grass due to the lack of rebound and the right shoes can make a difference, as the terrain is often soft and uneven.
The key things to look out for when choosing shoes for training on grass are a good arch for support and traction due to the changing nature of soft ground. My personal recommendation are to include trail spikes. There are many forms of the spikes so speak to the sales person in a reputable sports shop and they should be able to find something for your specification.
WALK THIS WAY
Road Runner
This is probably the most common purpose of trainers so many are designed with this purpose in mind. The rules here can be applied to the purchase of any shoe. First, you need to understand the shape of your foot. You can do this by lightly wetting the foot and standing on printing paper to see your foot print. You could also use a non-toxic paint for a footprint or talcum powder on a dark surface. The idea is to identify if you are over pronating, under pronating or if you are a neutral runner.
A Neutral Runner with high arches can go for a lightweight trainer as
they have an ideal gait for running long distance.
If you over pronate, so your foot rolls further inwards, your print will be more flatfooted You require well cushioned trainers with plenty of support to avoid injury’s and stable your ankles.
If you under pronate, so your foot rolls outward, a high cushion is the way to go to balance the impact away from the outer section of the foot.
Beach Body
Sand is perhaps the best surface to train on because it is the most difficult.
This difficulty comes from the uneven soft nature of the surface and from the danger of shells and sharp object. The key factors are good traction, quick-drying, lightweight, arch support depending on your specific requirements, breathability, Cushioning and trails.
Longevity
In order to get the most out of whatever shoe you are using you can use the following tips. - Never put your shoes in the washing machine - Let your Shoes breathe so don’t store in plastic - Rotate your shoes. Leave 48 hours in
between wears. - Keep your feet dry. Dampness can cause mold and health issues. - Wipe of any marks r dirt as soon as possible. - Air Dry shoes after cleaning. Do not use heat.
Football Shoes
Remember the surface you are playing on is the key factor. Stud plates are not suited to artificial grass, as they are not designed to withstand the abrasive surface. Comfort is key. Look at the fit first and style second. Leather looks better but synthetic provides a better fit.
Weight Lifting Shoes
A raised heel helps with stability especially when squatting. A stiff heel helps provide further support. Straps also are better than laves. A wider fit shoe also helps with toe splay.
