I just started the Couch to 5k running program (C25K) and I noticed that I was having a lot of shin pain when I would run and then my back and hips would hurt a lot that night. Now, I am not in the best shape in the world so I figured that it was just the normal soreness that comes with running (in my case it isn't called COUCH to 5k for nothing) . After this went on for a while I started to feel that something just wasn't right. I polled my friends and asked them if I should consider biting the bullet and get fitted for some running shoes and the answer was a resounding yes! I had been hesitant because frankly I was a little intimidated by the whole aspect of a running store because I am not a runner. I also didn't like the thought of having my run videotaped, my stride looked at and having people touch my feet. Also, I didn't know if I wanted to pay a million dollars just for a pair of shoes as I am usually a Rack Room Shoes gal. My friends, awesome people that they are, reminded me that $100 shoes are a bargain when compared to the bill from an orthopedist's office when I blow out my knee.
Saturday morning I paid a visit to Big Peach Running Company on Windward Parkway and they just couldn't be nicer. Jeff helped me (no, I am not getting paid for this, I am just that impressed) and he didn't roll his eyes or sigh when I told him that I was starting from scratch and would need the works. He was actually really excited to learn that I was a new runner and even suggested a race that would be great for me to run. The foot measurement and videotaping wasn't bad at all, I was relieved to find that they only point the camera at your ankles and I wouldn't have to see the flesh tsunami that is my butt when I run. After he videotaped my run I noticed that my left foot really over-pronates, the the point where I almost worried I would snap my ankle! I also learned that the New Balances I was wearing were geared more towards walking (they were a cross training shoe) and could be causing most of my problems. After much trial and error we found a pair of Nikes that have a stablizing core and look pretty funky but they felt great when I tested them out in the store. I spent $100 which almost gave me a heart attack and I hoped I hadn't been sold a bill of goods about the wonders of this shoe but I still couldn't wait to try them out.
What a difference good shoes make! It is like night and day and I actually enjoyed running today, something that is surely a sign of the coming apocalypse. My run today was so easy, I was able to go faster than usual without any pain in my shins. For once I stepped off the treadmill feeling like I just had a great workout and not like my muscles and bones were going to break apart. So,I guess it is true that if you are going to be putting a lot of pressure on your feet you better keep them well protected. Today's run, the beautiful weather and a 2.6lb weight loss this week has me feeling pretty spiffy. I think I am going to like this new routine.
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