FitSugar -- Healthy, happy you.

Do You Wear Running Shoes When You're Not Running?

FitSugar — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 04:30:00 -0700

When I was in college, running shoes with jeans was quite a popular look. But although I wear casual sneakers for everyday comfort, I reserve my running shoes for running and working out. How about you? Source

Do You Wear Running Shoes When You're Not Running?

I pretty much live in running shoes.

Sometimes, if I need to be really comfy or if I'm walking a lot.

Yes, but only my old pair of running shoes.

No. I'll just wear casual sneakers instead.

Other (tell me below)

Have You Ever Lied About How Fast You Can Run?

FitSugar — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 04:30:00 -0700

After watching the track and field events of the Olympics, I am even more inspired to increase my speed. I've heard of people lying about how much they eat, lying about their weight, and lying about what size clothes they wear, but what about speed? Tell me . . .Source

Have You Ever Lied About How Fast You Can Run?

Yes, I have.

No way, what's the point?

I don't actually know how fast I can run.

I don't run.

Other — please share below.

The Top Running Shoes Revealed

FitSugar — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 08:00:00 -0700

Product rating powerhouse Consumer Reports has tested 205 pairs of men's and women's running shoes in an effort to find the best. Overall they found that the Nike Air Zoom Vomero+2 (pictured here) was the best running shoe for men ($120) and women ($120). Not only does it have excellent cushioning, but it also was praised for its quality fit. Unfortunately, like most running sneaks, the price tag is a little steep.

If that's a little too pricey for you right now, the Champion Wonder C9 ($28) was the most cost effective woman's running sneaker that made number 23 on the list — the shoe scored high points for being lightweight and flexible. What's more? You can buy it at Target!

To see the full list, head on over to ConsumerReports.com (subscription required).

Back on Track: Check Your Sneaks

FitSugar — Sun, 06 Jul 2008 03:30:00 -0700

After a three-day weekend, possibly full of splurges, you want to get back on track, and let's start from the bottom up. How are your sneakers treating your feet? You should replace your running shoes every 350 to 500 miles, and you might be due. Tally up your weekly miles, multiply them by the number of weeks you have had your shoes. If you tend to forget the purchase date of your shoes, and really who has space in their brain for details like that, remember to write the purchase date on the inside of the tongue next time you buy new sneakers.

Also, take a moment and try the twist test to determine if your sneakers are shot or if they are still absorbing shock for you. If you can easily twist your shoe, their mid soles are worn out and it is time for new ones.

If your shoes failed the twist test, visit ShopStyle and start checking out some new styles.

Source

What's the Deal With Pronation?

FitSugar — Wed, 28 May 2008 03:30:00 -0700

"Pronation" may sound like a country inhabited entirely by paid athletes, but it's actually a concept that all amateur runners need to understand. The word refers to the way your foot rolls as it hits the ground, and understanding your pronation type is crucial when choosing a pair of running shoes.

Are you an overpronator or an underpronator? And why does it matter? To find out,

Are Expensive Sneaks Worth It?

FitSugar — Fri, 16 Nov 2007 14:30:00 -0800

Picking out sneakers can be really confusing, since there are so many different kinds and they vary in price so much. Performance-wise, are expensive sneakers any better than cheaper ones? A team of Scottish scientists used high tech-methods to find out. They found no difference in comfort or shock absorbency between $80 pairs and ones that were more than $150. The bottom line? Paying more moolah doesn't mean you're getting a better shoe.

When it comes to choosing sneaks:

Choose high-quality running shoes that fit your feet. It's fine to stick with a brand you like if you've had great experiences with them, but if you're new to running and don't yet know what you like, try on a few well-known brands to see which ones fit the best.
Think about your needs. If you know you'll be running on pavement and never in the woods, then you shouldn't buy the gray trail running sneakers just because you think they look cute. Never buy workout sneakers based on looks. An adorable shoe won't help you run any faster.

Want to hear the other tips? The

Get in Gear: Saucony's Cool New Shoe

FitSugar — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 14:30:00 -0700

Ever feel like your feet get too hot and sweaty in your sneaks?

Saucony's newest and coolest (no pun intended) sneaker the ProGrid Paramount ($165) is made with a special fabric called Comfortemp, which cools and warms to maintain your feet at a pleasant 82 degrees. What's more? A climate controlled foot is a drier foot! I'd love to try them out myself, because one reason I am so quick to take my shoes off is because they are so darn hot and sweaty after a long run.

These sneaks are brand spanking new, so to find out where you can buy them near you, check out the store locator at Saucony.com.

Where to Buy Sneakers Online: RoadRunner Sports

FitSugar — Fri, 07 Sep 2007 11:00:00 -0700

I have given you all many tips on how and why to buy good running shoes. Take care of your feet and they will take care of you. It seem like the good deals are often online, but when it comes to sneakers finding the right fit through the Internet can seem risky, but not with RoadRunner Sports.

They guarantee a perfect fit! Seriously. Here's how they explain their policy:

And now, with our unrivaled PERFECT FIT GUARANTEE, you can hit the road in your new running shoes. If they're not just right for you, simply exchange them within 60 days, no questions asked.

How cool is that?

They also have Fit Experts available for consultation via email or telephone (which seems charmingly "old school"). You can even sort the shoes by foot type and most shoe descriptions are accompanied by helpful reviews and rankings.

RoadRunner Sports sells other gear too: hydration systems, clothing, watches, scales, and heart rate monitors. If you prefer to shop at a retail store they have "brick and mortar" operations, mostly out west, so check their site for store locations.

5 Things: Choosing New Running Sneaks

FitSugar — Thu, 23 Aug 2007 14:30:00 -0700

Finding the right sneaker is kind of like finding a good boyfriend. Running shoes should be comfortable, practical, and not too flashy. Here are some tips on finding the right shoe for you.

Figure out what type of foot you have (narrow, wide, low arches, no arches, etc.) and choose a sneaker to fit your foot. Don't look at color, brand, style, or price to gauge quality or superiority. You should base your decision on how they feel (chances are you'll find a few to choose from, not just the $175 pair). Also remember not to skimp on new sneakers either. There's a reason crappy sneakers are so cheap.
Think about where you'll be running and check out the material the shoe is made with. Many shoes are made with this airy mesh material so your feet don't overheat, but if you are going to be running near water, you'll want a waterproof sneak instead. Also, you may like the look of trail runners, but if you are strictly a pavement girl, you'll need a shoe that offers more cushion and support, and not such a rubbery sole.
Wear your old running shoes to the store. You'll probably be buying them at an athletic shop that's staffed with fellow runners, so have them look at your old kicks so they can gain some insight into what type of shoe may suit you best. Also wear the socks you'll be running in when trying on new sneakers.

Want to hear the rest? Then

Running: Treat Your Feet Right With Quality Sneakers

FitSugar — Thu, 09 Aug 2007 10:15:00 -0700

One of the reasons I love running is that it really requires no special gear. You just need a body and a desire to run. Then again, you might not need a racquet or clubs to go for a good jog, but I would suggest quality running shoes.

If you are taking up running, good quality running shoes can seriously make this habit stick. Old shoes, tennis shoes, cheap shoes often don't provide enough cushion to protect your feet, ankles, and knees which can lead to injuries and prevent you from learning to love running. Since shoes are really the only important gear needed for running, I wouldn't skimp on them. You don't need to pay out the nose for some newfangled shoe, but generally what you pay for is what you get. Expect to pay around $100. Which may sound like a lot, but can you really put a price on your knees? Plus, maybe the guilt of an expensive gear purchase will motivate you to run.

Look for a well cushioned shoe that fits your foot, matches your foot type and gait pattern. The best place to start this endeavor is a running store since they tend to employ people obsessed with running. Therefore they should be able to help you figure out your gait and point you toward the shoe for you. The American Council on Exercise recommends shoes with greater shock absorption for runners with high arches, which may make you more prone to ankle sprains. On the other hand (or foot I could say), if you have low arches look for a shoe with greater support and heel control. Here is a list of running shoes rated by the The American Academy of Podiatric Sports Medicine. It should help you figure out what brands could be good for your needs.

Fit's Tip: Buy a shoe that’s as wide as possible across the forefoot without slipping in the heel.

Source