Running shoes

[Mojooo]

Decided I was going to start doing some jogging as that is the only form exercise that is convenient at the moment (no space for equipment at home and no gym).

I bought myself some cheap running shoes as a starter - I've never had these types of trainers - they feel really soft/padded which helps in comaprions the the other sport trainer I normally wear (astro turf shoes which are very flat soled but flexible).

Since then I have seen a bit of debate on the net as to whether one should go for very flexible 'natrual' style shoes which let the foot act as naturally as possible - or more rigid shoes which provide support but may stop the foot acting naturally.

Anyone have a view on this?

[Mojooo]

Well there is another argument that you don't need insoles to try and correct over pronation etc as your body is your body (I spsoe that is an argument for 'natural' shoes.

Or can you get minimalist shoes with insoles as well?

[Mojooo]

I have been doing a bit more research on this...

I spose running shoes with supports are a bit like orthotics that you put into a shoe - they provide extra assistance. The argument against these if that they don't solve the underlying problem.

I have assessed the shoes that I have - the ASICS - they have quite a chuny sole and I would say are quite rigid - they definitley encourage heel strike first.

I think my running style is forefoot/midfoot and I always thought a heel strike was probably the 'right' way to run as it somehow involes taking longer/better strides- maybe I was wrong.

I think I will take my running shoes and my flatter astro trainers down to the shop and see what they say - I guess most running/shoe shops are set up to set you fancy shoes though?

Finally, what about trainers that you just walk in - I spsoe if you used your rigid running shoes as normal trainers you would have the same problem.

I like the way the rigid shoes 'make' me walk and how they feel - but ultimatley I spose it is about what is best for me long term.