Running is a popular form of exercise that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and fitness levels. However, it’s important to choose the right running shoes to avoid injuries. One of the most important factors to consider when choosing running shoes is your foot type.
To understand feet as runners point of view we can divide the foot types on 4 basis. This will help you to understand in better way. These are…
- Basis of width: Running is a great way to stay fit and healthy, but it’s important to wear the right shoes to avoid injuries. One of the most important factors to consider when choosing running shoes is the width of your feet. There are three main types of feet on the basis of width for runners.
- Narrow: Narrow feet are less common than wide feet, and they can be difficult to fit properly in running shoes. Runners with narrow feet should look for shoes that have a narrow fit or that come in a variety of widths. Generally narrow foot width lie in the range between 80-89mm.
- Regular: Regular feet are the most common type of foot, and they are relatively easy to fit in running shoes. Runners with regular feet can choose from a wide variety of running shoes, regardless of the brand or model. Generally Regular foot width lie in the range between 90-99mm.
- Wide: Wide feet are often difficult to fit in running shoes, and runners with wide feet may need to try on several pairs of shoes before they find a pair that fits well. Runners with wide feet should look for shoes that have a wide fit or that come in a variety of widths. Generally wide foot width lie in the range between 100-109mm.
Above that still some range are still available like extra wide. Width is denoted by letters A to E.
In addition to the width of the foot, runners should also consider the length and height of their foot when choosing running shoes. It is important to choose running shoes that fit well in all three dimensions in order to prevent injuries and ensure a comfortable run.
- Basis of Arch: As a runner, I’ve learned a lot about foot arches. I used to think that everyone had the same type of arches, but that’s definitely not the case. There are three main types of foot arches: neutral, low, and high. Each type has its own unique characteristics and needs when it comes to running.
- Normal arch: This is the most common foot arch type. People with normal arches have a moderate arch and their weight is evenly distributed across the foot.
- Low arch: Low arches, also known as flat feet, are less common. People with low arches have a minimal or no visible arch. Their feet tend to roll inward excessively during walking or running.
- High Arch: People with high arches have a noticeably raised arch and a small amount of contact between the foot and the ground. They tend to put more weight on the heel and ball of the foot.
- Basis of stability while running: When running, your feet land on the ground hundreds of times per mile. The way your feet land and pronate can have a big impact on your running form, performance, and risk of injury. There are three main types of runners’ feet on the basis of stability while landing:
- Pronation: Pronation is when the foot rolls inward during the running stride. This can put stress on the arches and ankles, and it can increase the risk of injuries such as shin splints and plantar fasciitis. When it rolls excessively ,it called as overpronation.
- Supination: Supination is when the foot rolls outward excessively during the running stride. This can put stress on the outside of the foot and the toes, and it can increase the risk of injuries such as stress fractures and ankle sprains.
- Normal runners: Neutral or Normal runners have feet that roll inward slightly when they land. This is considered to be the ideal foot type for running because it provides good balance and support.
Runners with overpronating or supinating feet may need to wear stability shoes to help correct their footfall and reduce their risk of injury. Stability shoes typically have features such as a firm midsole and a medial post to help support the arch and prevent the foot from rolling inward excessively.
- Basis of landing: When you run, your feet impact the ground with a great deal of force. The way your feet land can affect your running performance and risk of injury. There are three main types of foot landing: forefoot, midfoot, and heel strike.
- Forefoot strike: Forefoot strikers land on the balls of their feet first. This type of landing is associated with a number of benefits like reduced impact on the knees and hips improved running efficiency and increases speed. However, forefoot striking can also put stress on the calves and Achilles tendon. It is important to gradually transition to forefoot striking to avoid injury.
- Midfoot strike: Midfoot strikers land on the middle of their feet first. This type of landing is considered to be the ideal footfall for running, as it minimizes the risk of injury. Midfoot striking is associated with a number of benefits like good shock absorption,efficient running form and it reduces risk of injury.
- Heel strike: Heel strikers land on their heels first. This type of landing is associated with a number of drawbacks like increased impact on the knees and hips, decreased running efficiency and increases risk of injury.
However, heel striking is also the most common type of foot landing. It is important to note that heel striking is not necessarily bad. If you are a heel striker and you are not experiencing any pain or injuries, there is no need to change your running form.
Understanding your foot type is essential for choosing the right running shoes. By choosing the right running shoes, you can help to prevent injuries and improve your performance.