Lightweight vs Heavyweight Shoes!
“An object will stay at rest or stay in motion unless acted on by a net external force, whether it results from gravity, friction, matter, or some other source.” ~Isaac Newton.
So, think of the amount of force it takes to produce speed. The greater its mass, the less a body accelerates under given force. If one were to relate this to the world of running, ”Can running in a lighter shoe shave time from a personal best, or make one faster?” YES! If your training shoes weigh, let’s say 11 ounces and your racing shoes weigh in at 7 ounces, you could be running faster and with good running form just by using lighter shoes. There is less mass to move with each step.
Wearing lightweight training shoes are for runners who want a balanced, light shoe that may be suitable for racing and do not experience excessive pronation when running. The benefit gained from wearing these types of shoes would be more efficient running form. Running with lightweight training shoes are for those with efficient running mechanics ,stride and good running form.
A good way to try a lightweight training shoe is to use them on your shorter runs or when preparing for 5K running or 10K running. This will allow you to see if the lightweight trainer is suitable for marathon running training. As runners gain more experience their running form typically improves and they become a more efficient runner. More efficient runners typically enjoy lighter weight shoes and run pain free during their marathon training.
Dr. Runco is a U.S. Navy and Gulf War Veteran. Graduating as a Doctor of Chiropractic he began private practice in San Diego in 2000. He has been a professor of Anatomy, Physiology, and Biomechanics at various colleges and continues to teach continuing education in the fields of rehabilitation, custom orthotics and athletic taping. He is also a member of the American College of Sports Medicine, National Strength and Conditioning Association and is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist. He is also an orthopedic doctor that specializes in treating foot injuries and problems.
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