Treadmill training is convenient and versatile. Plus it is on the rise, according to British website Shoeguide. If you're planning to integrate treadmill training into your exercise routine and you want to buy appropriate shoes, look for a shoe that is versatile enough to use for running on any type of surface.
Basics
Although treadmills are convenient, especially at night or in bad weather, they do have some hazards. First, running on a treadmill can give you blisters, just like running on any other surface. Also, treadmills can pose a hazard to other people, especially children. The sound of your shoes hitting the belt can make you unaware of your child entering the room; according to "The New York Times," many excruciating treadmill belt burns occur when kids reach down to touch the belt out of curiosity.
Background
According to an article in the "Los Angeles Times," cross trainers or sport trainers -- athletic shoes that are suitable for a variety of activities because of their hybrid design -- are just fine for running on a treadmill for a while, though shoes with flat soles can be slippery. However, if you plan to run exclusively on a treadmill, you should invest in a good pair of running shoes. There are shoes specifically for treadmill running, such as the Asics GEL-Treadmill sneaker, priced at $100.
Features
According to the "Times" article, good shoes for running on a treadmill are similar to any good running shoe. Look for cushioning, flexibility and ventilation. Plus, you'll want a shoe that's not too heavy, so a shoe that has a tough upper made of leather might be better suited for a basketball court than a treadmill.
Biomechanics
In an article on the Great Britain's Shoeguide website, a consultant to Asics highlighted several differences between running on a treadmill and running on a non-moving surface. Treadmill running involves a static center of mass; when running outdoors or on an indoor track you are moving forward. Also, treadmill running generates more heat in the shoe due to the friction of the belt. The Asics treadmill shoe takes the reduced forefront landing pressure of treadmill running into account by eliminating the heavier gel cushioning from the shoe's forefront, making the shoe lighter but less suitable for running outdoors.
Models
If you generally wear a neutral running shoe, try a shoe such as the Adidas Supernova, Mizuno Wave Rider 11, Asics Gel Nimbus and the Puma Complete Eutopia, according to the Shoeguide website. If you need more support from your running shoes, try the Nike Air Structure Triax XI, the Mizuno Wave Inspire 4, the Adidas Supernova Control and the Saucony Omni ProGrid 6.
Member Comments