The Navy SEAL Physical Fitness Guide - Uniformed Services ...

Running GearRunning ShoesA good pair of running shoes will provide shock absorption, cushioning, motioncontrol and durability, and ultimately help prevent injuries. Under no circumstance shouldyou buy shoes if they do not fit correctly. Running magazines usually have a yearly reviewof various running shoes, newest models of shoes and the type of runner the shoes are mostsuited to. You can also obtain current information from “Running Sites/Pages” on theworldwide web. It is wise to try on several different shoes at a sporting goods store todetermine which one might be best for you. This is also important if you are planning tobuy shoes from a catalog.PronationIt is important to understand this term because the type of running shoe you buydepends on whether you are a normal, over-, or under-pronator. While running, the outsideof the heel strikes the ground first. Next, the foot rotates inward and downwards: thisprocess is called pronation. Everyonepronates to some degree and pronation helps the foot absorb the shock of impact. However,some runners over-pronate: their feet roll too far inward. Put your running shoes togetherand look at their heels/backs; if they lean inward, you are probably over-pronating. Anotherway to check pronation is to have a friend run behind you and have them watch the back ofyour heel as it makes contact with the ground: the greater the inward roll of your heel, themore you pronate.Excessive pronation can lead toinjuries of the lower leg and knee.Other runners under-pronate or their feet do not have enough inward roll afterstriking the surface. Such individuals are considered to have “rigid” feet or feet that absorbshock poorly. Shoes are available to correct for either under or over-pronation.Shoe TerminologyWhen buying running shoes, it is helpful to be familiar with some common terms.Figure 4-1 presents the various parts of a running shoe.54 Running for Fitness