Project Run Fearless – Training vs Running Shoes

I’ve been through a fair few running shoes in my time which has inevitably resulted in me knowing what I like in a running shoe, what I don’t like and balancing that with what works for my feet.

Whenever I share running tips, including How To Run Your Best 10km or Tips To Avoid Running Injuries I always highlight and emphasise how important having the right shoes to do the job is.

Especially when it comes to running.

Back in the day, when I started coaching group sessions it became even more apparent how important having the right shoes for training was. It’s just as important to have the right shoes for running… and they ideally shouldn’t be the same shoe. The reason being that specialist moves need specialist shoes.

Basic Anatomy Of A Running Shoe

When you run, you move in just a forward motion. Therefore, running shoes are built with support for that plane of movement. They then have cushioning to allow for shock absorption as well as thicker heels and midsoles.

The sole should also have a slight curvature to aid your toe off when running which helps to propel you and increase your speed. The only flexibility needed in a running shoe is through the toe area. 

How Is a Training Shoe Different To A Running Shoe

When I talk about training shoes, I’m generally referring to anything from an aerobics class to weight lifting.

Movements when training differ to running in that they are multi directional. So you don’t just move forward… you’re moving backwards …side to side …and even jumping.

So your shoes needs to cater to the variety of movement in what you’re doing.

A training shoe is designed with all these things in mind including flexibility, lateral support and cushioning. You want your training shoe to allow you to stay agile whilst absorbing shock and providing support. 

Check Out These Training Shoes:

• Nike MetCon 7 Review – Training Shoes
• Nike SuperRep Go 2 Review – Women’s Training Shoe
• Air Zoom SuperRep 2 Training Shoe Review

Can Your Running Shoes Help You Reduce Injury?

With the launch of Project: Run Fearless, Nike have been asking – What if every day off was a decision? What if our sports MVPs were never MIA? What records could we break if we had record numbers chasing them? And what if everyone who started running never had to stop?

Basically, could they design a running shoe that could actually helped reduce injury?

Nike ZoomX Invincible Run Flyknit

I’ve been testing out the Nike ZoomX Invincible Run Flyknit over the last few weeks and they’ve positioned themselves right up there in the top 3 running shoes I prefer. They offer everything the Nike Run Fearless System says it does: comfort, cushioning, smooth heel-to-toe transition and increased  stability.

My first test for the ZoomX was at my local parkrun and I kid you not, I felt like I was flying despite not being in my best running shape. I managed to shave ~00:01:30 off my time for a new 2021 parkrun PB (there’s still a way to go for an all time PB but we move!).

I typically wear a size 5 in regular shoes and in Nike, but I’ve got the Nike ZoomX Invincible Run in a UK4.5 (…it was an accident) but, they fit okay. I’d 100% prefer them in a 5, but unless they shrink, they’ll work for me.

Where to Buy Them

You can get the Nike ZoomX Invincible Run Flyknit and other shoes in the Run Fearless collection direct from Nike.com. There are a variety of colourways in both mens and womens styles.

Nike ZoomX Invincible Run Flyknit Women’s

You are gonna love these if… you love an innovate and well cushioned shoe, made for speed.

Think twice if… you’re looking for something with extra support or for training rather than running.

Tips To Run Fearless

Injury impacts all runners.

Whether you’re considering beginning your running journey, but worried about getting injured or you’re a seasoned runner who doesn’t want to be slowed down by injury and don’t want to fee trapped by running.

~40% of Runners are still getting injured each year

Nike, 2021

• If you focus too much on getting injured, it’ll be like a self fulfilling prophecy. Try to focus your mind on getting strong so you can keep running.
• Don’t overdo it – if you’re a newer runner check out apps like Couch to 5k or the Nike Run Club (NRC) app.
• Keep mixing up your routine with speed and track workouts; intervals; long, slow distance runs, and recovery runs. 
• Aim for consistency to help you build your fitness and strength.
• Always warm up and cool down and include rest / recovery in your training schedule
• Cross-train to keep strong. Check out my on-demand membership for runners, cyclists and all round fitness lovers.

What’s your number one tip to run fearless and reduce your risk of injury?

Elle