What is the point of running shoes?

Running shoes; do we need them? What are they used for? Do they even work? Are they just a marketing tool? In all of the literature that crosses the desks of the information specialists at SIRC there seems to be one consistent answer, no one is certain and more research needs to be done. Since running shoes are constantly in the experimental phase of research it is hard to have any type of evidence based application to running shoes.

What does this mean? Historically running shoes have evolved and for the most part we can see (and feel) that it has been for the better. However, it could be suggested that when it comes to buying running shoes it may just be a personal choice. The five Ws’ could be applied to running shoes: who, what, where, when and why. In a 2008 study it was determined that cost doesn’t really matter when it comes to shoes, low and medium cost shoes provided the same and/or better support than higher price brands. This does not stop more and more shoes for being made to answer all the latest running trends.

There are shoes for all surfaces from the track to the trail. Whether you want lots of cushioning or are interested in barefoot running there is a shoe for you. Craving the latest trends? The Reebok ZigTech and Nike LunarLite offer speed, the Asics GEL-Kinsei® 3 adapt to gait or the Brooks BioMoGo line appeals to the eco conscious runners to name a few.

If you are looking for more information on this topic there are resources for you in the SIRC Collection. Some that may be of interest are:

• C E, R. (2009). Is your prescription of distance running shoes evidence-based?. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 43(3), 159-162.
  
• Clinghan, R., Arnold, G., Drew, T., Cochrane, L., & Abboud, A. (2008). Do you get value for money when you buy an expensive pair of running shoes?. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 42(3), 189-193.
  
• Dzierzak, L. (2009). Bare Foot Your Soul. SGB, 42(7), 38-42.
  
• Pearl, B. (2009). Barefoot Running, or Just a Minimalist Shoe?. Running & FitNews, 27(4), 14-15.
• (2010). Shoes alter your running style. Athletics Weekly (Descartes Publishing Ltd.), 65(5), 10.

The toning phenomena continues…clothing that can make you fit?

Reebok has introduces an EasyTone clothing line that claims to help people get fit. The pants and shirt have strategically place rubber resistance bands to make the body work harder, toning elements. Will it last? Time will tell. The toning shoes that we’ve discussed before continue to be popular so this new installment may be around for a while. To check out the new line of clothing go to www.reebok.com .

Although there appears to be a lack of evidence that the toning products work. Consumer Reports project that it will become a $1.5 billion business by year end, increasing 500%.

How the toning clothing is marketed is up for debate. In North America they are used to tone your legs and butt whereas in Europe they are marketed as a health product. The positive reports of the toning products lean towards the health benefits of posture and core control not necessarily as a fitness product.

The toning clothing line has just been released so stay tuned for upcoming articles however in the meantime you can find articles such as these are currently available in the SIRC Colleciton:

• (2010). Toning Shoe Skeptics. Fitness Business Canada, 11(5), 12.
• Ryan, T. (2010). Toning Footwear Trend or Fad?. SGB, 43(2), 12.