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Footwear

Rachel Tonick
Thursday, May 3, 2012 11:56 PM
Equipment-Based

Students always ask me what the best type of footwear is for inside the group ex room.  What are some recommendations on shoes for 1. strength training 2. kickboxing 3. basic cross trainer?

Comments (6)

Samantha Clayton [Thursday, May 17, 2012 10:09 PM]

I love Nike free for indoor classes, you really need to focus in order to be stable and you work all of those little muscles in your feet, it's almost as good as barefoot! However as an avid runner I have to say that brooks and Asics gel fortitude are amazing for serious cross training and running especially outdoors.

Elizabeth Andrews [Friday, May 25, 2012 7:59 AM]

For strength training I am a huge proponent of Vibrams or minimalist shoes. I can't wear the Nike, they don't fit my feet well...too much play in the lateral so I prefer a shoe that hugs my foot.  There are several to choose from so I would recommend telling your students to go try several brands since they all fit differently and each foot is unique.  New Balance has a great shoe.  I love Saucony's or Asics for cross training.

Sarah Fuhrmann [Monday, September 17, 2012 10:37 AM]

I have both Nike Free and New Balance Minimus shoes (with a Vibram sole) that I use to row and do HIIT training.  Absolutely love them and I've been shocked, since I have weak ankles, that they feel better to me than shoes with more support. 

Julie Mills [Wednesday, September 19, 2012 8:27 PM]

Absolutely Vibram Five Fingers! Not only do they promote strength and flexibility of the foot, but they literally help put the body back in balance! I recently bought some awesome train shoes for trail running, but honestly, I doubt I'll ever wear them because my Vibrams are awesome for EVERYTHING! Best things ever!!

Tammy Calamaras [Wednesday, October 3, 2012 10:35 PM]

If you are teaching on a hardwood aerobic floor, the best sneakers are volleyball sneakers.  They have gum rubber on the sole to increase traction on the wood floor.  Also, there is great cushioning in the ball of the foot and heel for plyometrics in some Boot Camp classes.  Also, they are great for lateral movements in Cardio Kickbox classes.  I use my Asics Flashpoint volleyball sneakers for all of the classes I teach in the aerobic room on the hardwood floor.  You still must be careful if the floor gets wet from perspiration, but the traction  is superior to just a regular sneaker.  Please note, they can only be worn inside.  The gum rubber sole is not to be worn outside.  This will increase the life of your sneaker.

Pontus Wärnestål [Wednesday, February 20, 2013 1:50 PM]

Hi Rachel!
For (2) Kickboxing I'd recommend boxing or wrestling shoes. They're light and have very thin soles. For strength training I agree: 5fingers, Merrell Trail Glove, or other minimalist shoes.
Cheers,
Pontus

Pontus Wärnestål [Wednesday, February 20, 2013 1:50 PM]

Hi Rachel!
For (2) Kickboxing I'd recommend boxing or wrestling shoes. They're light and have very thin soles. For strength training I agree: 5fingers, Merrell Trail Glove, or other minimalist shoes.
Cheers,
Pontus

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