Running Shoes?

Hey everyone: my gym membership has just expired and I can't/don't really want to spend the money on a new one. Sooo, I was wondering if anyone could recommend a good, cheapish running shoe for a novice about to take up jogging?!

P.S: I'm in the UK!

The best type of shoes depend on your feet and your gait----some shoes focus on support over cushioning, some cushioning over support, some brands are wider, some narrower, etc.--the right shoe really depends on your foot and your body mechanics.  Getting the proper shoe for you is super important for avoiding injuries.

I'd recommend going to a specialty shop (a true running shop not just a fashion sports shop) and get them to help you find out what type of shoes to buy...if everything there is out of your price range shop around (sales!!) given the new info you've acquired from the experts!

Original Post by li_li:

The best type of shoes depend on your feet and your gait----some shoes focus on support over cushioning, some cushioning over support, some brands are wider, some narrower, etc.--the right shoe really depends on your foot and your body mechanics.  Getting the proper shoe for you is super important for avoiding injuries.

I'd recommend going to a specialty shop (a true running shop not just a fashion sports shop) and get them to help you find out what type of shoes to buy...if everything there is out of your price range shop around (sales!!) given the new info you've acquired from the experts!

 +1 on this.  A good shoe for one person might cause you grief if you don't have a similar gait.  Although others might tell you you're better off running barefoot. :)  But that's the subject for a new thread!

Clint

Personally, I'm a minimalist when it comes to footwear.  The less you wear, and the more you learn to move and run on your forefoot, the better off you will be.  It will feel like you are tip-toeing around at first and your feet and lower legs will wear out FAST.  It is worth it in the end, though, to build up these muscles and become more aware of them.  Benefits that I noticed included decreased lower back pain, decreased knee and hip pain, and a MUCH smoother way of moving in general!  I highly recommend trying barefoot running, or running in something like Vibram Fivefingers.  Or, if nothing else, just a pair of old Puma Speedcats or similar. 

Good luck!

Original Post by easysavage:

Personally, I'm a minimalist when it comes to footwear.  The less you wear, and the more you learn to move and run on your forefoot, the better off you will be.  It will feel like you are tip-toeing around at first and your feet and lower legs will wear out FAST.  It is worth it in the end, though, to build up these muscles and become more aware of them.  Benefits that I noticed included decreased lower back pain, decreased knee and hip pain, and a MUCH smoother way of moving in general!  I highly recommend trying barefoot running, or running in something like Vibram Fivefingers.  Or, if nothing else, just a pair of old Puma Speedcats or similar. 

Good luck!

I agree with this mostly. For more thorough advice go here. You want run midfoot, not forefoot.

BTW, your barefeet are FREE!

Original Post by pbear999:

Original Post by li_li:

The best type of shoes depend on your feet and your gait----some shoes focus on support over cushioning, some cushioning over support, some brands are wider, some narrower, etc.--the right shoe really depends on your foot and your body mechanics.  Getting the proper shoe for you is super important for avoiding injuries.

I'd recommend going to a specialty shop (a true running shop not just a fashion sports shop) and get them to help you find out what type of shoes to buy...if everything there is out of your price range shop around (sales!!) given the new info you've acquired from the experts!

 +1 on this.  A good shoe for one person might cause you grief if you don't have a similar gait.  Although others might tell you you're better off running barefoot. :)  But that's the subject for a new thread!

Clint

Agree. Though this can be expensive. I assume if you've been going to the gym you have some shoes you can wear to just start out until you decide you actually like running. Then get some proper running shoes that suit you.