Popular shoe companies like Reebok, New Balance, and Skechers each have their own versions. For the look and feel of flip-flops, there are the popular “FitFlops.”
So, do they work? One recent study from the American Council on Exercise found that fitness shoes had no further benefit on muscle toning, compared to standard running shoes. But the companies all stand by their products.
Are they worth a try? If you want to indulge in an alternate pair of running or walking shoes, you might want try them out. If you’ve got any balance issues, I’d skip them, since the uneven bottoms of these shoes can cause instability. They definitely feel different on your feet, and take some getting used to, so make sure to compare brands, and walk around in the store to determine your comfort level. Many people love them from the start, and others wouldn’t wear them if they were free!
Of course, the most important part of “fitness” is not the shoes – footwear is not going to get you up off the couch! The basic activity message still holds true: stick with a comfortable pair of walking or running shoes, and keep moving!.
If you’ve tried these toning shoes, I’d love to hear about your experience!
Walking in these shoes is OK. They should not be used for jogging/running as their soles are not stable which can lead to injury. For running, stick with a running shoe.
ReplyDeleteI totally agree these are unstable at "higher" speeds as you point out, and the best use is for walking. Thanks for sharing!
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