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Most people associate fitness with dance aerobics for women. However, fitness is a more comprehensive concept that includes any exercise performed in a specially equipped gym. To make your workout as effective as possible (burn as many calories without getting injured), choosing the right athletic shoes is key.
Your favorite running shoes will not work out, as they are too heavy. Your favorite basketball shoes, which you wear with jeans for walks around town, are not suitable either. So, how can you choose fitness shoes that are both comfortable and functional? As it turns out, it is an art unto itself.
Selection Criteria
When you go shopping for fitness shoes, you should know what specific features to look for. What selection criteria should you follow to buy the right athletic shoes? They should have the following characteristics.
- Foot Stability
Fitness involves a lot of legwork. When you actively move your legs, you must feel comfortable and safe from any injuries. That is why it is especially important to choose the right size of athletic shoes. They should rise above street shoes and have a rigid back. Only then will they provide proper support for the ankle and minimize the risk of any gym-related health risks, such as sprains and fractures.
- Laces
To continue with the topic of foot stability, you should choose models with laces since they are considered the most reliable in this regard. Velcro and other types of fasteners can be inconvenient. Flat laces hold knots better. Make sure that they do not cut into your leg, as this can affect blood circulation.
- Breathability
Your feet should breathe in your fitness shoes, so you should make sure that air can circulate while you are exercising. For example, many brands offer shoes with circular foot ventilation, which is a more expensive but ideal option. The material is also of significant importance: it should be natural and not create an airtight seal. This can be achieved by using leather, Gore-Tex (a recent innovative development), or a synthetic mesh.
- Cushioning
The cushioning system in athletic shoes reduces the load on your legs and minimizes the risk of injuries. It can come in the form of micropores, air chambers, or a midsole. You should pay special attention to the latter. They are made of either polyurethane or ethylene vinyl acetate. The first material is more durable, but the second one is better at absorbing shock. The sole can also have additional shock-absorbing inserts, which are especially important when running or jumping.
