June 27, 1997
The Running Shoe
Part One
I wish to thank Dr. Pribut for providing me with the information regarding why running shoes are different from other sports shoes and why that difference is important.
The function of a running shoe is to protect the foot from the stresses of running, while permitting the athlete to achieve his or her maximum potential. While in some parts of the world athletes run and participate in sports barefooted, most of us require and benefit from the use of sport specific shoes.
The forces and motions that occur in different sports vary greatly. Because of these differences it is important that active participation in varied sports will require varied shoes. A simple example of why this is so can be demonstrated by a brief contrast of the sports of running and tennis.
Tennis and other racquet sports require much side-to-side motion and the shoe must provide lateral stability. The shoes appropriate for racquet sports usually do not have any heel elevation. If the shoe is unstable when the athlete is moving to one side to return a ball, the likelihood is great that they may suffer an ankle sprain.
Recreational running on the other hand, usually occurs in a straight line. Lateral stability is not as important. These shoes usually have slight heel elevation which will reduce stress on the achilles tendon, but slightly reduce the lateral stability of the ankle. Running shoes also have a larger toe box, more shock absorption, and better pronation control than tennis shoes.
Long distance runners usually contact the ground on their heels. Sprinters have forefoot contact. Middle distance runners vary and may have forefoot, midfoot or heel contact.
Each type of runner has different needs to consider.
Next week we will continue with more on the running shoe and what injuries are common to the runner that are related to the shoes we wear.
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On The Run
NORTHWEST ON THE RUN
This is a great place to check out! This site has so much to offer! To name just a few; a forum area that includes a chat room, message board, medical and training advice. A scrapbook where you may list some of your favorite running memories. A book store, gift shop and photo gallery. Believe it or not, there is more! I invite you to take a look. You're gonna love it!
Runner's World
"Runner's World On Line"
This site has a lot to offer! "Forums",which is a runners bulletin board. Info on nutrition, women's running, training info, shoe review, goodies, calendar of races, also, at certain times, live coverage of specific events. There's more so take a look.
Always on the Move
Always On The Move
The web site has 112 links and growing. Many of them would be of interest to runners. From running clubs to bookstores. Check it out.
Road Runner Sports
Road Runner Sports
A good site to find what you need in the way of running apparel. From shoes to clothes, sports bottles to watches, they have it all. Check it out and ask for their free catalog.
Running Delights
This is a great place to find a special gift for the athlete. They have 8 different categories, one is for runners. If you are looking for a greeting cards to key chains, t-shirts to energy gels, give them a look. They have a toll free order number. Ask for a free catalog. You can also link up to two other running links from their site. Have a look, you'll be glad you did!
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Running
