Running - Foot Type

Ask any runner and they'll tell you, "running is a sport of passion." Why else would runners torture themselves by running miles upon miles every day, with the aches, pains, and injuries that go along with it. There are many, many reasons to run-from losing weight, to running a timed race, to blowing off steam, or waking yourself up in the morning, as cross-training for other sports, or to increase general physical fitness. For runners of all ages, there are practices to be aware of and habits to be careful of to avoid injury and make sure that every run you go for is safe, fun, and sustainable.
 
Know your foot shape: it's important to understand how your feet are shaped so that you can ensure you have the proper running shoes for your feet. Good shoes can go a long way in preventing injury and giving you the support that you need to keep running for many years. The easiest way to know your foot shape is by wetting your foot and then stepping on a piece of paper. You might also notice your foot shape if you often swim and then walk around barefoot on concrete. Take a look at the shape your foot makes on the paper.
 
If you see about half of your arch you have a Normal (or medium) Arch. This is the most common foot type and means that you are a normal pronater (that means, you rotate your foot a normal amount while you run to absorb the shock of impact appropriately).
 
If you see nearly your entire footprint, you have a Flat (or low) Arch. This means you are an over-pronoater and that when you run or walk your arch collapses immediately and doesn't offer the support needed for your body. This type of foot can be seen in tall, heavy, or bow-legged runners.
 
If you see only your heel and the ball of your foot (very little of the side of your foot where it should strike when you pronate) then you have a High Arch. A high arch is the least common foot type and means that you are an under-pronator. This can meant that when your foot strikes, there is significant shock that moves up yourelegs because your arch isn't there to support it.
 
When you've determined your foot type, you can make sure that your running shoes are designed to support your foot. Most athletic shoe shop professionals will be able to help you with this. A good fitting shoe will ensure that your feet are taken care of and will support you throughout your running.