The best distance runners in the world will meet in just a few days for one of running’s biggest and most prestigious races: the Boston Marathon. The top tier of male competitors will run a mile in less than 5 minutes, and continue that pace for the entire 26.2 miles, finishing in about 2 hours. Elite female runners will complete the race in less than 2 ½ hours. In case you’re wondering, that’s crazy fast.
However, you don’t have to be an elite runner – or even run a whole marathon – to reap the benefits of the sport. Running is a great way for everyone to:
- improve heart health (it’s cardiovascular exercise)
- burn off a high number of calories per minute
- reduce stress
- ward off the effects of depression
- improve muscle tone and make you stronger
- prevent or control diseases like high blood pressure and diabetes
Keep your feet safe
If you’re ready to jump into the sport of running, Dr. Heidi M. Christie and Dr. Chanda L. Day-Houts, the experienced podiatrists at Montgomery Foot Care Specialists, want you to think first about protecting your feet. When you run, your lower limbs feel the shock of your full weight. Shock absorption is necessary in the form of great shoes.
Wearing whatever athletic shoes you’ve got on hand just won’t do. You can’t run in basketball or tennis shoes. They’re geared to support your feet during lateral movements. The forward motion of running simply requires a different kind of support.
How to pick a good running shoe
There are literally hundreds of running shoes available. The size, shape, and biomechanics of your individual foot dictate which style will work best for you. Visit an athletic shoe retailer that offers a full foot and gait analysis. They have salespeople who can match your feet to the right shoes.
For even further protection against running injuries, Dr. Christie and Dr. Day-Houts can perform a complete foot exam before you begin running. We can help you avoid foot problems before they even begin. River region runners who want more help choosing shoes or need a complete foot exam can call us at our Montgomery, Alabama podiatry office at (334) 396-3668. You can also make an appointment online.