Tag: trainers

Can minimal running really help your form?

Posted on by Mohsin Salya

Hi, and welcome back to the Mohsin Salya blog.

Running, just like any other sport, has its crazes. Many of course are driven by the industry – the big name companies jumping on trends to sell the latest trainers, clothing or technology. Minimal footwear is one recent phenomenon that seems to have stuck around however – and it’s probably with good reason.

Less is more?

The thinking behind minimal running shoes is this. Over the years, as shoe material technology has become increasingly advanced, the amount of support and cushioning technology that is built into the shoes has increased. Minimal running shoes are a response to this trend and is based on some sound scientific thinking.

The idea is that the cushioning we’ve all become so accustomed to has actually negatively affected our running form. Runners wearing shoes with over 8mm of cushioning on them are often inclined to land on their heels – rather than the mid or fore-foot – and so they’re actually running less efficiently than they should.

Improve your form

So, do I recommend that you give minimal shoes a go? Well, I think they’re certainly an interesting response to the technology overload that we’ve seen going into shoes in over the decades. I also think that they’re well worth giving a go if you feel that your super-cushioned running shoes are negatively impacting on your running style – it seems that they certainly can be a useful corrective to the poor running form caused by heel strikes. Without the cushioning, you’re forced to adopt a more natural running style, and it certainly makes sense that this can improve your running efficiency.

I’ve personally found that switching between minimal shoes and more cushioned ones has certainly had a positive effect on my own running – so give it a go and see how you get on.

Until the next time,

Mohsin Salya

What Is The Best Material for Running Gear?

Posted on by Mohsin Salya

Hi there, and welcome back to the Mohsin Salya blog.

You need to think carefully about the type of clothing you wear, before you start running. If you pick something inappropriate, the material could make you uncomfortable, damaging your performance. To help you understand what’s required to best support your running, in this post I’ll be advising on the best material for running clothes.

Body temperatures

Remember that when you run, your body generates a lot of heat, so you can get pretty sweaty. If you build up a sweat during a run, it can cause discomfort and even give you rashes, limiting your ability to run regularly in the near future. I’d advise you to look for running clothes in materials that promote breathability, helping regulate your body temperate and preventing sweat from building up.

You may be tempted to buy cotton running clothing, as this material is both comfortable and cost effective. But New Jersey-based fitness store Fleet Feet Mahwah argues that cotton is actually pretty ineffective. This is because cotton holds moisture, so if you sweat while running, your clothes will get and stay wet. Not only can this cause rashes, but it won’t allow your body to regulate your temperature properly, meaning that you’ll overheat during summer and freeze during winter.

Ideal materials

Instead, Fleet Feet Mahwah suggests, buy running clothing in technical fabrics. These pieces are typically made with materials like Lycra, polyester and nylon. Technical fabric clothing is highly breathable. It lets a lot of air flow through the material per minute, moving moisture away from your skin while you run, to prevent sweat from building up. Technical fabric pieces are also extremely lightweight, meaning that you don’t have to carry a lot of weight with you while running.

Fleet Feet Mahwah also argues that you should buy running socks in technical fabrics, as opposed to cotton. A cotton sock will retain moisture, which when combined with the heat and friction created by your running shoes, can increase your chances of developing blisters. Again, technical fabric socks will wick away the sweat, allowing you to run comfortably for longer. I should also point out that fungus thrives in dark, moist areas, so cotton running socks can prove really unhealthy for your feet.

Shoes and jackets

To ensure you’re comfortable while running, you should also choose good shoes and jackets. You may want to consult my list of the best running shoes on the market for guidance. You might want to go for something like the Merrell All Out Charge shoes, available from Sports Direct for £50. They’re lightweight and flexible, with exceptional cushioning and support, helping you stay comfortable.

If you’re running in brisk temperatures, you may also want to buy a good running jacket. The Ashmei Nightrunner has been hailed as the best jacket on the market, although it retails at £225. It’s fitted with merino wool, which is effective at regulating your body temperature. For something more affordable, buy the Adidas Supernova Storm Half-Zip. Retailing at roughly £60, it has heat-managing stretch back panels and wind blocking polyester sleeves, while it also has nylon panels on the front.

Promoting comfort

You should keep in mind that if you wear clothing that makes you uncomfortable when you run, it could dissuade you from running again, not to mention the performance limitations. You should always do a lot of research and try to spend as much as you can afford on high tech fabrics. With good clothing, you’ll soon want to fit running into your schedule more regularly.

Until the next time,

Mohsin Salya

Do I Need Special Running Socks?

Posted on by Mohsin Salya

Hi, welcome to the Mohsin Salya blog!

It’s a question you may have never asked yourself – do I need special running socks, or are normal socks good enough? And are the more expensive brands better quality? In this post I’ll be sharing my thoughts on why you need to think about your socks when running.

Are special running socks necessary?

The short answer is yes – ideally you do. You could ask the same question of anything that is purpose built, such as special shoes for running or a particular type of bra for high impact sport.

Properly fitted, appropriate equipment facilitates an overall better experience, and in some cases can even make you faster. Obviously your clothing won’t do the speed work for you. However, there may be certain situations, such as wiggling around trying to avoid blisters and chafing, where the correct equipment can prevent this and in turn help you run faster.

It’s a similar situation to eating the right food to fuel your body, or getting fitted for running shoes. If you want to give yourself the best chance for success, investing in the right equipment is a must. After all, your feet are your foundation. If they aren’t happy, your run probably won’t be a very happy one either.

How can running socks help me run?

So how exactly will special socks make a difference to the comfort of your run?

  • Arch support – this prevents foot fatigue, improves circulation and prevents your socks slipping down mid run
  • Snug construction – can help to prevent blisters
  • Dedicated left and right foot – helps to improve the fit and comfort, and make sure that compression occurs in the correct place
  • Reinforced toe and heel – this improves cushioning and comfort, and can slow down the wear of the socks
  • Moisture wicking fabric – can regulate temperature and in turn prevent blisters
  • Odour defence – to combat the odour produced by sweating
  • Seamless toe – to prevent blisters and any discomfort

Where can I find some good quality running socks?

You’ll find running socks in any good sports clothing stores. If you’re shopping online, Wiggle and Runners Need have a great selection.

Happy running,

Mohsin Salya

 

Which Are The Best Running Shoes?

Posted on by Mohsin Salya

Hello and welcome back to the Mohsin Salya blog.

There are so many different running shoes on the market these days that when it comes to choosing a new pair, the decision can get overwhelming. There are good and bad reviews for all pairs, there are specific pairs for a certain type of running and there are different types of arch support. In this blog post I hope to clear some of the confusion, and give you my personal pick of the best running shoes in 2016.

Road

Adidas Adistar Boost ESM

Although these are pricey, the Techfit™ flexible upper unit provides seamless support for ultimate comfort when running, The Boost™ mid-sole technology offers energy retruns whilst also making sure the foot is well supported, whilst the Formotion technology adapts to the running surface to make sure that the running experience is smooth and responsive. Although one of the more expensive shoes, these are well worth every penny.

Nike Flyknit Racer

The Nike Flyknit Racer offers a lightweight and flexible competition shoe. The relatively low stack height provides great mobility, whilst offering a very well-cushioned experience. This shoe is great if you’re looking for a super light shoe with great mobility, and are suitable for a range of athletes.

Brooks Launch 3

Air Mesh material on the upper makes the Brooks Launch 3 ultra-breathable, whilst the 3D Fit Print maintains the structure of the shoe but still promotes flexibility. These shoes definitely have aesthetic appeal, whilst on the technical front high abrasion resistant rubber offers responsiveness and durability.

Trail

Salomon Speedcross 3

The Salomon Speedcoss 3 shoes give an all-round great ground feel, and the Sensifit and Endofit features ensure that they give runners a precise and comfortable fit. The shoe features a quick lacing system for easy-on and easy-off, and also has anti-debris mesh which is really effective. A great all-rounder trail running shoe, it is available in a variety of different colour options.

Asics Gel Venture 5

The 5th version of the Asics Gel Venture offers a better grip than previous versions, and provides more than enough support. For added durability, the shoe features the Asics High Abrasion Rubber and also has Rarefoot Gel Cushioning System for shock absorption and smooth transition. This shoe is ideal for light trail running and a great partner for everyday running and training.

Merrell All Out Charge

This is a great affordable option that is lightweight, flexible and comfortable. It has the Merrell HyperWrap 360 Degrees Fit System technology which keeps the foot in place for agility and natural stability. If you want exceptional cushioning and support at an affordable price, these are the daily trail running shoes for you.

As always, do your research and read plenty of reviews before settling on a shoe, and it’s always recommended that you try on before you buy.

Until next time,

Mohsin Salya

Top 10 Running Shoe Lacing Techniques – Infographic

Posted on by Mohsin Salya

Hi there, and welcome back to the Mohsin Salya blog.

You may never have thought that the way you lace up your shoes would have such an impact on your run, and neither did I. However, in running there are a lot of factors that could secure the fit and comfort of the feet – this in turns translates into either a good run or a bad run.

Each pair of feet is unique, which is why using the right lacing technique will matter in your running performance. This infographic below from Run Repeat shows you just how you can relieve the foot fatigue or nagging pain by adjusting the laces on your running shoes. Lacing techniques are basic to master. The effectiveness of a technique might depend on the lacing material, number of holes or just how tight the laces are secured before going out for a run.

mohsin salya

 

Until next time,

Mohsin Salya