Foot & Shoe Facts

Here is an interesting fact that researchers have discovered:

Self-assessed pronators have a lower arch height, meaning that people with flat feet may think they pronate. But this is not necessarily true! Biomechanically measured pronators do not have a lower arch height than biomechanically assessed neutral runners.

Runners are unable to assess their own running style
Self-assessed pronators may actually be neutral runners
Self-assessed neutral runners may actually be pronators.

Every body pronates, as it is the body's way to absorb shock when you run. Excessive motion in either direction can be a problematic factor with injury. The human foot is made of 26 bones, 33 joints and over 100 muscles, ligaments and tendons that combine together to give the foot its mechanical and structural strength. Due to the biomechanical complexity of the human foot, the selection of shoes is one of the most important factors when deciding to undertake training and an event.

As we walk or run the foot must be able to withstand enormous pressure, so your foot must be structurally sound to serve as a foundation for shock absorption and propulsion. On average your foot absorbs the impact of your weight (up to 5 times your body weight) as it hits the ground approximately 450-600 times per kilometre (over 10km/21km or 42km that can add up to a lot of weight!)

It's important to know how your foot works rather than foot shape when selecting a shoe. Three different categories of shoes have been designed for the three different types of foot profiles.

Because everybody's foot functions in a different way, adidas has developed shoes that work with, not against the natural characteristics of your foot. The right shoes will offer comfort, performance and a smooth ‘ride' over the bridge.

Control – These shoes are designed to control hyper-pronation (roll in). The main feature of these shoes is the extended second density (grey colour) along the inside of the midsole.

Neutral – Individuals who are biomechanically efficient require neutral shoes. A neutral has no added medial density support but has a strong torsional wrap to provide protection if required.

Cushion – The main purpose of these shoes is to provide full cushioning with very limited support control. This shoe is for individuals who hypo-pronate (roll out) and require additional shock absorption from their shoe.

adidas has designed shoes to fit into these categories and our recommendation is to start with a neutral shoe, then with the right advice, and depending on the way your foot works, we take it from there to find the footwear option that suits your needs.

50% of all runners will develop an injury this year

If you are injured and have been placed in the correct shoe, you have tried a gradual build up of your training volumes, visiting a Podiatrist could be a very valuable investment. Don't wait until four weeks or less before your major event. There is nothing worse than hearing about the runner that got injured in the last few weeks before a major event and hadn't got the correct advice.

Here are a few simple questions to ask yourself

· Have you developed a leg/foot pain during your preparation for the race?
· Have you raced in the event and developed some leg or foot pain?
· Have you got the correct running shoes for your foot type but you still are injured?

If you have answered yes to any of these questions then a podiatry consultation could help you. A biomechanical analysis from Footworks City investigates the alignment of your foot and lower leg. By using Silicon Coach video analysis, we are able to interpret your foot dynamically and assess injury. Any abnormal findings may require the design of an orthotic to help improve foot function and provide better support for efficient walking or running.

Ashley Webster BHSc (Podiatry)

Contact details:
FOOTWORKS CITY Ltd
Dingwall Building
87 Queen St, Lvl 2
Auckland

Phone: 09 368 5454