When to change your running shoes

How long have you been wearing the same old running shoes?  Look at them; they are probably pretty worn out right?  Well your old worn out shoes could actually be hurting your progress!!  Here's why...

When your buy that brand new pair of athletic shoes they are so awesome and new and supportive straight out of the box.  They even smell new!  But, like any new product they get worn out and lose some of their integrity over time.  There are quite a few things that contribute to this like the following:
1.) How many miles you put on your shoes, your body weight and foot type
2.) Over time running on a road will wear out your shoes faster than on a treadmill
3.) Running in shoes that are overused will increase your risk of an overuse injury in your pelvis, feet, legs and hips.

When should you change your shoes out for new ones?  Well, it is recommended every 300-500 miles or so.  You can also tell you need to change your shoes when the outer soles are worn down and you can see the (usually white) mid sole through.  Also if there are ANY tears in your shoes or when your toe sneaks through the toe box.  Another way is if you are starting to have major signs of muscle fatigue, shin splints or joint pain (especially knees) this is another tell-tale sign that you need some new shoes.  

It's a great idea to make down when you purchased your shoes so you can be sure to replace them on time, weather you write it in your calendar, put it in your phone or even write it on your shoes!!

It's always a good idea to donate your shoes to a needy cause when you are done with them as well!  One mans trash is another mans treasure right?!  Hope this helped and let me now if you have any questions!!  :)

Much Love,
Gail

Some Great sites to check out:
http://www.asics.co.uk/sports/running/preparation/changing-your-running-shoes-knowing-when-is-the-right-time

http://running.about.com/od/shoesapparelandgear/f/replaceshoes.htm