Lacing up - The importance of good shoes and exercise gear

With so many people running and starting the 30 Day Shred, I figured it was a good time to talk about exercise gear.

I realize that budgets are tight these days, and everyone is trying to cut corners. But that being said, there are a few essentials that you do not want to mess around with when it comes to exercise - specifically the 30 Day Shred and 5K training (or longer).

Also, if you originally bought new gear but haven't updated it in awhile, then you might want to consider going shopping, mostly to save yourself from unnecessary injury.

1. Sneakers

Both Bill and I strongly recommend new cross trainers for the 30 Day Shred. It's rough on the knees and you'll want all the support you can get.

For runners, we can't stress enough how important it is to get fitted for the proper running shoes. Yes, they are expensive but if they will help you avoid shin splints, knee problems, and even back problems, it's well worth the money. Once you find a pair that works, you can shop online for good deals on that shoe.

GET FITTED. PLEASE!

2. Sports Bra

Okay dudes, skip this one. But ladies. Do not skimp on a sports bra. Larger breasted women (including breastfeeders) swear by the Enell bra. It's not pretty, but from what I've heard, it does the trick.

I personally love my Fiona Moving Comfort Bra. Again, I have found that the better quality bras do cost more, but they also wash well and don't wear out as quickly.

Keep in mind that if you are working out every day, after a few months, you might need to get a new bra. They're really not made to last that long.

3. Socks

I recently noticed that all my good running socks seemed to have disappeared and surprise, I'm getting uncomfortable callouses on my feet. I paid around $10 - $12 for the sports socks that I love and again, it was well worth it.

They can give you extra support and actually help keep your feet dry.

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Any products that you think are must haves?

Comments

[Goddess in Progress (@etowndz)]

On your recommendation, I also got the Fiona bra. I am, ahem, in need of support in that area, and I absolutely love that bra. So count it in as good for the over-endowed among us, too! :-)

[Kelly]

Where did you get fitted for shoes here in Atlanta?

[Teri]

FWIW, some current research suggests that "good" (well-padded) / expensive running shoes are overrated and, counter-intuitively, a source of a lot of running problems. I just googled "barefoot running" to back up my claim and found a lot of articles, including this one, written yesterday: http://www.webmd.com/fitness-exercise/news/20100127/barefoot-running-laced-with-health-benefits

Anecdotally, I've been running for for about 15 years, long before I heard the conventional wisdom. I have weird-shaped feet, so I buy the cheapest shoes that don't dig into my sides, and I wear them for years at a time until I can no longer hold them together with duct tape. I haven't had any problems with shin splints, knee or back pain, etc.

Just wanted to share my thoughts, seeing as it can be expensive and stressful to buy "good" running shoes. I enjoy your blog a lot! :-)

[Kristen]

Thanks Teri - I guess I should clarify that "good" doesn't always mean expensive. The ones that fit me best were the cheapest of the lot. So good point.

Kelly, I went to http://www.weststride.com (It's off Northside near the Flying Biscuit - in fact, it's' right next door). They were super nice. It's owned by a mom and I'm headed back soon to get some socks. I like giving them biz.

I know friends like Big Peach and Phippides.

And great GiP that the bra works. I love how you can adjust it so easily with the velcro straps!

[Janice - The Fitness Cheerleader]

Incontinence pads for those of us with stress induced incontinence :)

[Lindsay]

Off topic but... any tips on technique for plank twists (last ab workout end of workout 2). Whenever I do it it feels like I am crunching bones in my pelvis or something. It feels yucky not like a burn. Thoughts as to what I am doing wrong? ps. love the site.

[Kelly]

Thanks I'll try weststride - that's close enough to work I can do it at lunch one day next week. Fun!