If you’re a newcomer to the fitness world, you’re bound to be familiar with the term « all the gear and no idea ». Really getting into the swing of exercise – whether you’ve just joined a new gym or running club – is a lifestyle change that will throw you out of your comfort zone at first, but also one that you’ll soon become accustomed to.

Starting out will be the biggest challenge, especially as you need to get to grips with the various types of equipment and exercises. Remember, though, that working out isn’t something you can just throw yourself into; instead, you need to ease your body into exercise in order to prevent injury and allow yourself to adjust to the changes.

Of course, you’ll need to invest in new sports gear, such as leggings and tops in lightweight, breathable fabric. This is a pretty straight-forward process and one that is mostly based on what is most visually appealing to you. Your training shoes, on the other hand, are a whole different ball game and something that you must think carefully about.

So if you’re wondering how to choose the best training shoes for your feet, read on:

Decide on the type you need

Before picking a pair of trainers, decide what you will be using them for. Trainers are designed for different purposes; for example, cross trainers are made for wear in a variety of sports – such as aerobics, gym and team sports – while others are designed solely with running in mind.

If you’re going to be using your trainers to train for a running event such as a 10K race or marathon, it’s a good idea to visit a specialist running shop to be equipped with the best pair of shoes for your feet.

Stability

Whatever you’re going to use your training shoes for, ensure that they provide stability and comfort.

Running, in particular, means you’ll exert more pressure on your feet, in which case you’ll need a good level of support and mid-sole cushioning. Bear this in mind when picking your perfect pair.

Know your foot

This may seem obvious, but it’s surprising how many people don’t actually know their feet. This can be anything from their true size to whether they are wide or flat-footed.

If in doubt, visit a foot and ankle specialist for a full consultation on your feet.

Budget

Training shoes don’t need to cost the earth, so budget wisely. You should also compare retailers, as you might find that your favourite pair of trainers are on offer in a different store.

If you’ll be using your trainers regularly, a good quality pair will typically last between one and two years. Therefore, you may end up forking out a little more than planned, but it will be a worthwhile investment in the long-run.

Golden rule

You’ll find that certain sports shops have trainers designed for men and women. It’s important to know that women shouldn’t be under the impression that they can get away with wearing a pair of men’s trainers, just in a smaller size than usual.

Females have different-shaped feet to males and so will need a different type of fit and cushioning. What’s more, a pair of ill-fitted shoes are more likely to cause injuries.