How to Select the Right Footwear for Step Aerobics

The right footwear makes a world of difference not only in terms of comfort, but it is also an important safety consideration when it comes to step aerobics. Wearing improper footwear can lead to painful muscle, joint and bone injuries that you can avoid if you take the time to educate yourself.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Avoid wearing improper footwear while performing step aerobics at all times. Most fitness instructors will tell you that boots, open-toed shoes, dress shoes and shoes with any type of heel attachment make poor choices that could lead to injury.

2. Know that it's not as simple as heading to your local shoe warehouse and buying the first pair of running shoes you that see on sale. In fact, running shoes are not recommended for step aerobics.

3. Go to a store that specializes in the sale of athletic footwear. You will find a more complete range of suitable footwear at a specialty store. Also, the staff will be more knowledgeable and in a better position to help you select the right footwear for your step aerobics routine.

4. Wear the same socks you will be wearing during your workout when you get fitted for your new shoes. Remember to find out whether your feet have neutral, high or low arches. Insoles may be required to match the shape of the shoe with the arches of your feet.

5. Realize that cross-trainers, step shoes, court shoes and aerobic shoes make the best choices of athletic footwear for people who do step aerobics. Ask the salesperson to see a complete range of these shoe types when you visit the store.

6. Know it's not just the length of the shoe that counts. You want to select a shoe that has the proper width as well. A shoe should be snug but not tight across its breadth. You will also want a shoe that offers exceptional shock absorption, or add insoles that will augment this to your purchase.

7. Walk around the store wearing both the left and right shoe before you buy. They should feel comfortable from the first step you take. If not, select a different shoe.

Tips & Warnings

• Pay a visit to your family doctor before you commit to a regular step aerobics workout, or an exercise regimen of any kind. If you are above age 30, or if you have been physically active for a long time, there may be risk factors involved that you will want to know how to control.