Shoes for Treadmill Walking
Do you need special shoes for walking on a treadmill? The short answer to this question is “No. But………”
Treadmill walking is a very effective way to get some exercise when walking outside is just not possible. We surveyed 60 happy Treadmill Walkers to find out why they chose using a treadmill instead of Outdoor walking.
Top 6 reasons for choosing treadmill walking:
- My neighborhood is too hilly for a beginner
- The weather is too cold/ rainy/bitter
- The weather is too hot / sunny/humid
- I don’t feel safe walking after dark on my own
- A nasty dog barks at me
- I don’t want to pay a sitter while I go for a walk
Should you choose Shoes or Socks or Barefoot for Treadmill Walking?
Socks only are a big “no no”. The chances that you will slip on the treadmill are much higher if you are wearing socks. The last thing you want is to land on your rear end and injure your body and your pride.
Barefoot Walking whether it be on a treadmill or on outdoor paths is a fuzzy area. Generally speaking barefoot walking is only suitable for people with structurally and muscularly sturdy and undamaged feet. If you are starting an exercise program, or have a history of foot, ankle, leg, knee, hip or back problems I would be avoiding Barefoot treadmill walking.
Shoes are our preferred option for Treadmill Walking. You can use the same shoes that you would choose for outdoor walking. Ideally your shoes should:
- Fit well – not too sloppy, not too tight
- Supportive – if your foot rolls in or out.
- Cushioning – in the heel and/or the ball of the foot. This is especially important as you build up your time on the treadmill
- Fastening – Laces or Velcro. If you can’t reach try using an extra long shoe horn.
Now that you have your Shoes sorted, there are a few more things to consider.
Treadmill Walking is not the same as Outdoor Walking.
A treadmill has a moving belt. If you are recovering from injury or illness your muscles may not be as adaptive as they once were. So please take care. Your walking style (gait) and overall body posture may be in a mess. The main thing is to get going again, preventing pain and strain as you go. Recovery, rehabilitation and fitness may take a little longer.
Do I need supervision on a Treadmill?
If you are uncertain please check with your physician. Working with a physical therapist or trainer may be necessary. If you are OK to continue on your own here are a few Tips on Treadmill Walking
