If you are in the market for a pair of sneakers that promise to tone your calves and butt muscles, you don't have to look far. Due to the enormous popularity of "toning" shoes, also known as "muscle-activating" shoes, just about every major athletic shoe manufacturer has their version of the product represented on store shelves. The decision you will have to make is, which pair of body toning shoes best fits your foot and your budget.
Reebok Easytone Trainers
The Reebok Easytone shoe features instability pods in the soles of the shoes that activate 11 percent more muscle activity in the calf while walking or jogging. This shoe is the only one of its kind that is marketed for both walking and jogging. It comes in two colors, black and white and retails for $99.95 (2010).
New Balance Rock and Tone Trainers
The Rock and Tone Trainer features a rocker sole that rolls your foot forward to mimic the action of walking barefoot in the sand. It reportedly increases muscle activation in the legs up to 27 percent. The NB Rock and Tone comes in white and pink and white and silver and sells for around $84.95 (2010).
Skecher Shape Ups
Skecher's muscle activation shoes are aptly named Shape Ups. This shoe features a rounded rocker sole that promotes a more natural gait or walking style. Along with increased muscle activation in the calf area, this shoe improves posture and increases blood circulation. The company has released findings from specific studies to back up their health claims. Shape Ups come in black or white and retail for around $99.95 (2010).
Avia Avi-Motion Trainers
Avia's shoes also tone the muscles of the lower legs with rocker-sole motion, but are the first in the market to add full flexibility to the forefoot. The Avi-Motion simulates barefoot walking and boasts exceptional shock absorption. This shoe comes in black or white and retails for $79.95 (2010).
FitFlop Sandals
FitFlop sandals are designed for walking only and increase muscle activation in your calves and other leg muscles up to 30 percent. Independent studies have been conducted to back-up marketing claims. The FitFlop sandal is the most affordable toning shoe on the market and comes in a wider variety of styles and colors than the athletic shoes. Retail price for this body toning shoe is $49.95 to $59.95 (2010).
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