#lizdoeslife

[tonypvequalsk]

@jrfred tagged me for a stop drop selfie. I had to run out to the shop for a second so I have my safety side shields on. I am so cool. Let's see, jrfred is from Missouri. I am from Missouri. Let's keep it in the Missouri realm? I tag @lizdoeslife and anyone else from this state. :)

[seechrisrun]

What do you think is the easiest/best/least painful way to break in new running shoes?

When I was at the running store a couple weeks ago, the salesman told me that most shoes don’t require breaking in anymore. However, I don’t think that’s totally accurate if you’re changing models. Your foot would still need to adjust even if the shoe doesn’t.

I normally wear a new pair around the house to help ease into them before running. Usually just a day. And then keep the first couple runs on the shorter side to make sure there aren’t any weird side effects. After that I’m all in. I suppose you could also alternate your new and old pair until you were satisfied they felt good enough.

If you have a really high or flat arch, major pronation, or some other issue with your stride, you probably need to lengthen this period of adjustment. If you’re unsure if you even have any issues, definitely go and get analyzed at a running store. The shoes will cost you more up front, but then you’ll know what you need going forward. Plus you’ll usually be able to return them no questions asked if they’re not working.

As I mentioned a couple weeks ago, I’m really not a shoe expert. Don’t go chasing a fad or committing to a shoe just because a friend recommended it. Walk into the store with an open mind and go with what feels good (within budget).