Training shoes incorporate features to protect the wearer against the mechanical stresses imposed by the foot striking and moving sideways on the ground (figure 65). Each sport and type of exercise has different requirements. For example, running shoes are designed for forward and backward movements and give little support for the sideways motions experienced in squash. Individuals also have different requirements: heavy people and those with loose tendons and ligaments require a more supportive shoe than light people or those with rigid feet. Modern shoes incorporate the latest technological advances in material science. Some even have gadgets such as rollbars and pumps to inflate bladders which support the upper foot.
Figure 65 Features of a typical, good training shoe
In 1995 there were more than 200 types of shoe on the market designed specifically for running. These included high and low mileage shoes; shoes suitable for different terrains; shoes with superior fore and rear foot cushioning for those with high or medium arches; slightly heavier, stability shoes, to limit excessive foot motion; motion control shoes, with supports to correct biomechanical problems (e.g. overpronation); and flexible, lightweight shoes for racing. Unfortunately, choosing the ideal shoe is not easy because two people of similar size and running action can react to the same shoe in completely different ways. The wrong shoe may cause injury by having inadequate shock absorption or inappropriate grip on the sole. Therefore, it is best to seek the advice of a specialist shoe shop when buying training shoes, and to try them on.
