Shoes for a Clydesdale

[DebTaylor]

Cathe:

I love your workouts; it's that plain and simple. I won't give them up. You are a terrific "coach."

Unfortunately, I have learned I am what they call a "Clydesdale" exerciser/runner (I think the female equivalent is called an "Athena," but you get the idea.) I am 6'0" tall and big-boned, have lost 35 pounds but still weigh 220, which equates to miserably hard on my feet and knees. That, coupled with flat feet, collapsed arches and two bad discs in my lower back make for some pretty painful workouts (form, however, is impeccable! I refuse to give up!!!

I have found saving grace in the Brooks Beast running shoe (men's, believe it or not), in combination with an excellent heel/arch insert for stabilization and support. Eureka! No more pain! Now, I am in search of the perfect counterpart for my step workouts. Any suggestions? I've tried a couple of New Balance, but still come up with Achilles tendon, arch and knee pain. Any guidance would be appreciated!

Thanks, Deb

 

[Cathe Friedrich]

Hi Deb! Thanks for the warm words. Congratulations on your weight loss. You sound very motivated, good for you. Ahhh, the endless shoe search. It is very tough. It seems as if you look everywhere for that perfect pair....and when you find it, they discontinue it within a year's time. Here is a site that is helpful with mostly running shoes (which I know you are not asking about) but you may find some standard fitness shoes mixed in the reviews. It at least tells you the the best features of the shoes and the type of foot that would do well with them. Good Luck! Wish I could help more but it has been my experience that no one shoe is good for everyone. You just have to keep trying them on.

http://www.forwardmotion.com/shoereview/review.asp?cat=motion

 

[DebTaylor]

Okay, for all my sister Clydesdales, listen up! I've found the BEST shoe for motion control and severe pronation!

They are made by Brooks and are called "Ariel." I think they are the women's version of the men's Brooks Beast. Awesome, awesome shoe. Lots of motion control and arch support. Kind of expensive, but worth every penny! No more ankle/knee/hip pain for me!

Go to www.brookssports.com and good luck!


Deb