FOOTWEAR AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

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FOOTWEAR AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITY
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It is essential that the footwear we choose for any form of physical
activity is comfortable and
correctly fitted. Shoes for each activity have important features that
need to be considered
when selecting shoe styles. When choosing footwear, look for shoes
made from materials that
breathe, such as leather or natural fibres. A well-fitted shoe has a
heel that won’t slip off your
foot and should have enough room for your foot to sit comfortably
without cramping. There
should always be a space equivalent to the width of your thumb between
your toe and the
end of your shoe.


HIGH HEELED SHOES
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Many women choose to wear high-heeled shoes which can be quite harmful
as they force the
front of the foot to carry most of the body weight. High heels can
lead to shortening of the
calf muscle and muscle strain in the back, as the back muscles work
overtime trying to hold
the body in an upright posture. If you choose to wear high-heeled
shoes there are several things that you can do
to prevent foot or back injury.

• Wear walking shoes to work then change into high heels, likewise
throughout the day
when possible

• When sitting, take your shoes off and stretch your feet and toes -
hold for 30 seconds.
Repeat this procedure whenever possible throughout the day.


SPORTS SHOES
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As strain is placed on the foot during physical activity it is
important to choose the correct
sporting shoe for your foot and the activity you are participating in.

Running Shoe
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A running shoe is designed for long distance running. A running shoe
is developed
specifically for the heel-toe action evident in running and travelling
in one direction.
Cushioning is situated in the sole of the shoe, which acts as a shock
absorption device and
the base of the shoe provides stability. The shoe should have a broad
base and a firm heel
counter that cradles the foot and does not allow slipping of the heel.

Cross Trainers
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The cross trainer is designed for multipurpose use. A cross trainer
can be used as a running
shoe if the distance is only up to 6 km per session. The cross trainer
however has a higher cut
around the ankle than a running shoe. This allows for greater
stability making it suitable for a host of different
activities such as walking, aerobics and tennis.


Basketball Boot
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Basketball players usually choose a boot style shoe which provides
greater support for the ankle and stability
when making fast direction changes. The basketball boot should also be
cushioned, and is generally flatter on
the sole than a running shoe.

*Other Sports Shoes
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Shoe manufacturers release many designs for recreational activities
such as the aquashoe, sandal, and hiking
boots. These shoes have all been designed as performance orientated
products and it is essential that any type of
shoe worn be correctly fitted. When selecting shoes, ask for
assistance, shoe salespeople are trained in
providing professional advice on the correct shoe for your foot and
your needs.