which trainers for couch to 5k

[Menagerie]

Hi

I have some very comfortable sketchers but read online you need proper running shoes. Are they sure? Athletes used to train in plimsolls. Do I really need another new pair of shoes?

well i cbought cheap ones....they fell apart in week 7. i have asics now (reccomended on c25k thread) and have just completed week 9.

running shops can test your running style and fit you properly,but thats ££££

I would say you'd be OK for the first couple of weeks (while you get used to running and see if you like it), but once you start to run regularly you'll probably find you get aches and rubs from your shoes if they're not supporting your feet properly. Prolonged running in bad shoes also risks knee/back pain etc.

I started the Couch 2 5K in a pair of old tennis shoes, but started getting blisters on the balls of my feet, so I went to the local running shop and had my gait analysed on a treadmill so I could find a pair that best supported my feet (there are different constructions of shoe depending on how your feet strike the floor).

It made a huge difference, however, I wouldn't have wanted to shell out £85 until I knew for sure that running was going to become a regular thing (nearly 9 months on, I'm still pounding pavements three times a week!)

I tried the Asics ones, but they weren't comfortable - mine are Mizuno; lots of room for my plate-like feet!

Obviously you have to look at what you can afford and if you can afford to buy proper running trainers this is absolutely the best thing for you. They don't have to be the all singing, all dancing £100 ones but even approx £35 in the sale from your local independent sports shop will pay dividends in the long run (sorry, no pun intended) to your body and your running.

Thanks. I'll stick to the Sketchers until I get into real running, then see what I need.

Cointreau - are you still running in that same pair of shoes? That's not so expensive if you wear them 3 times a week.

Yes, they're still going strong (apart from the fact that DD1's rabbit nibbled off the laces on one of the shoes ).

You're right, it doesn't work out too pricy per run.

Personally I'd buy a cheapish pair of running trainers - should be able to get something for £35 for now.... especially if running on hard surface like road... not work damaging your feet in sketchers. Also you must buy decent sports bra.

My last pair of trainers were about £80 but lasted over 2 years.