Cross Training Questions
Should I buy running shoes and tennis shoes separately?
Hi, I participate in two types of physical activities: - I run on the treatmill at the gym - I play tennis I also have flat feet. Would it be better for my feet to get a pair of running shoes and a pair of tennis, or can I go with one pair of shoes? (and which one, running, tennis or cross-trainers). Any particular company you recommend? (New Balance? Brooks?) When you answer, can you say what is your background with regards to this? Thanks.
Public Comments
- Absolutely and completely and totally YES you should! They are completely separate sports with different demands on the feet and body - shoes are designed to support the rigors of each sport. If you buy one pair and participate in each athletic endeavor frequently, I would guess that you would have to buy a new pair every month. My experience with this is all my participation in various activities, especially with running and I know how quickly running shoes can wear out (I don't even wear them for anything except running). If you're unsure of what shoe works for you, go to John's. They will work with you on making sure you get the right shoe.
- I've run and played tennis for 10 years. And both require seperate shoes. i have found that running shoes do not hold up well to the constant starting and stopping on a hard tennis court. And they are not stable enough to handle movement. You can easily roll your ankle playing any other sport in running shoes (i've done it a few times). And on the flip side, running long distances in tennis shoes is not good for you. So I say yes, buy them sepreate. You can find both for $50-$60 a piece. I have found Asics work for running. And Adidas for tennis.
- Shoes are designed for a particular sport. You should not use tennis shoes for running, even though you run in tennis it is not the same. You should not use running shoes for tennis, and depending on the surface of the court you will need different shoes. Go to a good running store and try on shoes, find some that fit your feet and feel good to you. The major brands all make good shoes. I have been running for close to 50 years and coach high school and middle school track and field.
