The impact from aerobics can be up to six times the force of gravity, and this force is transmitted to all the bones in your feet, according to the American Academy of Podiatric Sports Medicine. Given this, proper shoes are an essential part of any aerobic routine. Choosing the right sneakers to wear for aerobics can protect you against potential injuries and reduce the foot pain caused by improper footwear.
Shoes for Your Foot Type
No matter what kind of physical activity you're doing, find a shoe that fits your foot type. Get your foot wet, then stand on something absorbent, such as a piece of cardboard, that makes an imprint of your foot. If you have a low arch or "flat feet," the imprint looks like a nearly complete sole. If you have a high arch, you see a narrow band that connects your forefoot and heel. If you have a normal arch, the band connecting your forefoot and heel is significantly wider. According to the American College of Sports Medicine, people with high arches should choose cushioned shoes, those with low arches should benefit from motion-control shoes, and those with normal arches should choose stability shoes.
Sports-Specific Shoes
The American Academy of Podiatric Sports Medicine suggests "sports-specific shoes" that meet the particular requirements of the sport you engage in. For aerobics, this means sneakers that provide adequate shock absorption and cushioning as well as good stability for medial-lateral, or side-to-side, movements. Aerobics sneakers should have a high toe box to prevent toe and nail irritation and thick strap support to prevent foot slippage and provide stability. The American Academy of Podiatric Sports Medicine further cautions against using running shoes for aerobics, as these shoes lift your heels too high and do not have enough lateral stability.
Cross Trainers
If you can't afford to buy a pair of sports-specific shoes for every type of physical activity you engage in, the American Council on Exercise suggests purchasing a pair of cross trainers or multipurpose shoes. These may be a good compromise if you're planning to do different types of activities during one workout.
Considerations
Keep a price range in mind when shopping for aerobics shoes and remember that you'll need to replace these sneakers more often than the shoes you wear when you're not working out. The American Council on Exercise notes that athletic shoes wear out and lose cushioning after about three to six months of use, so don't choose a pair of sneakers that you can't afford to replace periodically.
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