Running shoes More than anything, worn-out running shoes can destroy your workout, and even your health. Shin splints, knee pain, ankle pain, and even back pain can all result from working out in old shoes.
When to toss them: A good rule of thumb: if you're using your shoes 5 to 6 times a week you'll need new ones every 3 to 6 months. If you use them less often than that, then every 8 to 12 months should be good. If at any time you feel pain in your knees, ankles, or shins that wasn't there before, it's likely a sign it's time to replace your shoes. Of course, it's better to do this before you're in pain, so toss your running shoes if:
• You can hold your shoe at both ends and twist it easily (the sole should feel firm)
• You find yourself tying the laces really tight to feel supported
• Your midsole looks worn down or you can feel it when you're running
Help them last longer: Only wear your shoes when working out, since any running or walking wears them down. If you run often, get two pairs of shoes and rotate them, so each pair has time to decompress. After every workout, loosen the laces and open your shoes to air them out, and store them in a cool, dry place (not your gym bag or trunk). Never put your running shoes in the washing machine. If you do need to clean them, use a scrub brush, mild soap, cold water, and let them air dry.
*Sources: Andrew Schrage, co-owner of Money Crashers Personal Finance. Ilyse Baker, top 10 FitOrbit.com trainer. Janette Janero, group fitness director at Florida International University. Michele Bohbot, Electric Yoga designer and Master Yogi.
This is great! I hate throwing out workout gear and buying new stuff because, let's face it, I don't really look that great the gym no matter what I'm wearing! But I should definitely invest in some new running shoes.
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Older comments
Love buying new work out gear, it motivates me ot get running
by cindy11052 Sunday, March 3, 2013 at 06:43AM Report as inappropriate
This is great! I hate throwing out workout gear and buying new stuff because, let's face it, I don't really look that great the gym no matter what I'm wearing! But I should definitely invest in some new running shoes.
by schien Wednesday, January 9, 2013 at 09:18PM Report as inappropriate
Ah sometimes it's things you don't really want to get rid of..oh well
by Sele10 Wednesday, January 9, 2013 at 09:00PM Report as inappropriate
I love new white socks, need some new tennis shoes too. New year new items!
by EricaC123 Wednesday, January 9, 2013 at 08:27PM Report as inappropriate
I find the special work out shorts and t-shirts mostly useless. I'll be sticking to my extra cotton shirts and shorts for that.
by amber.flute Wednesday, January 9, 2013 at 06:34PM Report as inappropriate
I know I need some new running shoes but I just can't let my beloved Pumas go!
by MizzPink Wednesday, January 9, 2013 at 07:00AM Report as inappropriate
this is all common sense yet i didnt know it..lol
by rayshaviolet Tuesday, January 8, 2013 at 03:26PM Report as inappropriate
Wow! I did not know that one had to replace shoes and hats. Thanks for the info.
by Sari Monday, January 7, 2013 at 09:13PM Report as inappropriate
great
by Nicole2814 Wednesday, January 2, 2013 at 01:11PM Report as inappropriate
Great article! I learned a lot. Now excuse me while I throw half of my workout stuff out.
by NillaButterfly Saturday, December 22, 2012 at 07:13PM Report as inappropriate