We always tell patients that it’s wise to vary their workout routines, so many people end up doing some running workouts and doing gym-based workouts on other occasions. But should you be wearing the same shoe for both of these workouts? There’s a good chance that your running shoe isn’t the best option for a lifting routine, so consider investing in a different type of athletic shoe for those gym workouts. In today’s blog, we explain why a running shoe may not be the best option for a gym-based workout.
Why Running Shoes Aren’t Great For Lifting
A running shoe is far from the worst shoe to pursue a lifting routine in, but at the same time, the unique design of a running shoe could increase your risk of injury if you’re not careful. Here’s why:
1. Cushioned Bottoms – Running shoes are sometimes overly cushioned on the bottom as a way to absorb some of the repetitive stress of running. This helps to take stress off your feet and ankles with each step you take, but this extra padding can cause an issue during other activities, like lifting. This extra cushion can make it harder to stay stable when squatting or performing overhead lifts.
2. Can Contribute To Form Issues – A lot of running shoes are designed to support a heel-to-toe strike pattern, almost helping to propel the runner forward as they go. However, this design can force you to be up further on your toes, throwing off your balance and your center of gravity. You don’t want to be worried about your balance or your center of gravity when performing precise or heavy lifts.
3. Wear Down Quicker – Of course, the more activities that you use a shoe for, the quicker they will wear down. If you’re training for a half marathon or a triathlon, you don’t want to have to buy new shoes close to race time because the pair you wore during training wore down too much. You’ll prolong the health of each pair by purchasing a shoe for running and a shoe for gym-based workouts.
Look for shoes that are marketed as a workout shoe compared to a running shoe, and be sure to try them on in the store before purchasing to ensure your feet feel comfortable and supported in the shoe. Running and lifting are two different tasks, and you should put your feet into shoes that support the different stress patterns that will be put on them during each activity.
For more information on picking out the right running shoe, check out this blog post. And of course, if you are dealing with a new running injury or your’e trying to put a chronic injury to bed for good so that you can take on greater challenges during a workout routine, connect with Dr. Silverman and his team today.