Do Shape Up Shoes Make People Lose Weight?

Since the first modern toning shoes were introduced by shoe manufacturer MBT, other shoe manufacturers have been eager to develop and market their own brand of shoes that promise to help you gain a better body with every step. The claim is that the shoe's construction promotes more muscular activity, therefore helping you lose weight and tone your legs, butt and thighs. Unfortunately, as the American Council of Exercise found, these claims are too good to be true. In fact, your regular sneakers are likely just as effective as weight loss tools.

Philosophy

Part of what makes toning shoes seem so appealing is the philosophy behind the manufacturers' claims. All toning shoes share one particular construction feature: an unstable sole. Some shoes use a curved sole, others use inserts, but all use the idea that walking on an unstable surface helps engage your muscles. Unfortunately, the flaw in the philosophy is whether or not that extra engagement actually benefits your health, weight and body composition in any particular way.

Research

The American Council on Exercise tested a variety of so-called toning shoes in July 2010. MBT, Skechers and Reebok were among the brands tested, being some of the most common and heavily marketed brands of toning shoes. The ACE found that while the shoes did engage leg muscles during use, that engagement actually did nothing to benefit the body. In fact, the ACE went as far as to say that any weight loss benefit you receive from wearing toning shoes is from the increased motivation to exercise, but not from the shoe itself.

Expert Opinion

Besides the ACE, a variety of fitness experts and even podiatrists have spoken out against toning shoes. Bruce Williams, a podiatrist and a past president of the American Academy of Podiatric Sports Medicine tells CNN.com that toning shoes aren't beneficial, despite the fact that they increase muscular activity in the legs. "Consumer Reports" was quoted in "Time" magazine warning against the shoes, as the instability could cause injuries. The consumer magazine noted that you're better off spending time in the gym with regular shoes that you are being couch-ridden in a cast.

Alternatives

Your regular shoes are just as effective as a pair of toning shoes. As with all types of exercise equipment, your effort is the driving force as to whether or not something helps you lose weight. Instead of spending money pricey toning shoes, buying a gym membership, registering for a 5K or buying regular supportive shoes might be a better investment. As Barbara de Lateur, distinguished service professor of physical medicine and rehabilitation at Johns Hopkins University’s School of Medicine points out to "Time," you're better off if you “bought one less bagel a day -- and walked an extra block,” instead of looking to fitness gimmicks to help you lose weight.