7 Tips for Choosing the Right Trainers ...

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The first question you need to ask yourself when looking for new trainers is how you’re going to use them. Will you be walking or running or biking or lifting weights? Indoors or outdoors? On asphalt or the beach? How and where you’ll use them is something you need to consider when you’re choosing new cross-trainers.

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Now you need to think about how much you intend to spend. What’s your budget, and how much wiggle room do you have? Come up with a price range and only look at shoes in that range. Most brands of shoe have trainers in a range of price points, so you ought to be able to find something great for less than $100.

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If you prefer using ankle-socks or knee-socks, thick or thin, bring a pair with you when you’re shopping for new trainers. Otherwise, you won’t get an accurate fit, and you may even get blisters the first few times you wear them… ouch!

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Do you have special needs, like weak joints, fallen arches, or shin splints? Take these into consideration when shopping for new trainers.

Try on shoes in different sizes and widths to make sure you’re getting a perfect fit. Each brand has different sizing guidelines, so while you may wear a 6.5W in Nike, you might need an 8M in New Balance.

Once you’ve found a pair you think fit nicely, walk around the shop in them. Jog a bit. Move around. Before you leave the store, if you notice any discomfort, these are not the shoes for you. Try again!

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I don’t just mean getting recommendations from friends and family — if you work out at a gym, or belong to a running club, ask others in your group or at the gym for their feedback and suggestions. Also, ask someone who works at the shop. Chances are, they’ll know what shoes work best for which situations, and can help you find the right fit, too.

If you keep these tips in mind while searching for new trainers, you’ll find just the right pair in no time, and your work-out will seem a lot less arduous. And your feet and back will certainly feel better! Do you have any other tips to share that would help finding just the right work-out shoes? Please share!

Top Photo Credit: Natalie Franke