Best shoes for the gym
Here are our recommendations for the best gym trainers
Every runner knows the importance of wearing the correct running shoes when going for a run. However, when we head for the gym our choice of running shoes is often given very little thought. Wearing your “normal” running shoes in the gym can have detrimental effects to both your wallet and the risk of injury. So what trainers should you look out for?
Cushioning: If you take classes such as step aerobics or are doing plyometric training you will want trainers with some extra shock absorption in the forefoot and heel. When running the force through your shoes can be up to 3x your body weight, however when you jump it can be as much as 5x. The last thing you want is for your shoes to bottom out!
Traction: An important consideration if you do a lot of circuit training that involves short sharp turns. Running shoes are designed for running in straight lines and often the tread reflects that. In a pair of gym trainers you want a tread patter that will help you twist and turn as well as some added lateral support.
Flexibility: Freedom of movement is crucial when dancing or doing Pilates. Therefore you want a shoe that is less rigid since freedom of movement is more important than added support or cushioning.
Stability: Stable, good fitting running shoes are essential. If you are doing an activity that involves a lot of lateral movement then consider trainers with slightly rounded outsoles. Also a lower profile trainer will be more stable. If you are strength training you want a firm and stable platform with just enough cushioning but not too much.
To find running shoes that were suitable for running on a tread mill, robust enough in the toe gait to prevent abrasion from the rowing machines and spinning bikes, whilst providing ample support for aerobics and circuit training was a tricky task but here are our findings.
Best for Studio Use (Dance, Pilate’s etc)
Nike Free Running Shoes
Lightweight and flexible these shoes make you feel nimble and ready for action. Designed to mimic running bear-foot but with added protection they will enable you to feel the ground. Nike’s natural motion technology is focused in a great shoe to promote stronger feet which can reduce injury & improve performance meaning more effective and efficient training.
Vibram 5 Fingers
Ok, so you may get a few funny looks but he or she who laughs last laughs the longest! If the Nike Free range is designed to mimic barefoot running the 5Fingers allow you to run exactly as if you were barefoot. The premises is that by exercising using the 5Fingers you will increase the strength in your feet thus leading to less injuries and better running form.
Best for circuit training
If you are like us, vanity does come into play (a bit) when choosing a shoe for the gym. And for that reason we ignored the UK Gear GT-02’s and the Asics Gel 100TR’s for just being too ugly. However if you can compromise looks for functionality then they are well worth a look.
New Balance 1010
A new shoe for 2009, the MX1010 is a high performance cross trainer. Combining comfort with superb cushioning. Weight training, cardio machines, studio classes, whatever indoor or outdoor workout you have in mind, the 1010 is a perfect fit. New Balance technologies such as ABZORB SBS® and Extended N-LOCK® offer superior cushioning and unmatched support as you train.
Nike Air Zoom Essential
Nike Lady Air Zoom Essential X-Training Trainer. This is a very versatile, durable shoe for the keen athlete. This is a lightweight, breathable training shoe features a mesh upper with an adjustable midfoot support strap and a non-marking outsole that’s great for gyms or wooden floors.
Saucony Progrid Triumph 6
We found the Triumph 6 to provide excellent control when turning sharply, ample cushioning when landing and great breath-ability. Although it s traditionally a cushioned running shoe it doesn’t feel unstable when doing shuttle runs and provides a nice level shock attenuation for burpees and other sadistic exercises!
New Balance 758
A fantastic lightweight, durable, everyday running shoe. An aggressive grip pattern and a lightening dry wicking system are welcomed additions and make them ideal for circuit training. The New Balance 758’s provide a snug and stylish fit whilst producing a responsive ride thats guaranteed to help you stick with the pace.
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Asics Gel Treadmill
If your main reason for going to the gym is to use the treadmill then this is the shoe for you. Asics have rounded the heel for better transition, reduced the cushioning to make it lighter and added a more breathable mesh. The ride when using this shoe is second to none thanks to the altered shoe profile, which works in tandem with the treadmill itself, creating a totally unique gym shoe experience.
Brooks Launch
If you want something leightweight and durable primarily for the treadmil but can also be used for circuit training, spinning etc you can not go wrong with the Brooks Launch. A tremendous addition to the Brooks Range, its racy looks are matched with fantastic performance. A low level, well cushioned ride should make the mind numbing miles on the treadmill more enjoyable!
If the trainers above are too expensive don’t worry. You can purchase trainers with enough cushioning and support for under £49.99. Some great examples of this are the Asics Gel 1140 and the Mizuno Wave Genesis.
For our full list of running shoes that provide support and cushioning sufficient for gym use please click on this link.
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