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Shape Up........Or Ship Out????

Posted By: Jeff Williams on 12/28/2011

So....I posted a link on the FT Fort Myers Facebook page relating to this fad that we have of these Shape Up Shoes that have taken the country by storm.  In case you haven't read it, click on the link and it will take you to the WebMD article.  This article is interesting because there is not significant information that leads me to believe that these shoes are something special.  In my opinion, I don't want to try these shoes because of that reason.  Why use it if there isn't any benefit??  Again, that's just me and I don't think you'll catch me wearing these shoes, but to he/she his own.

I will say that although there are a few different types of footwear out there that can produce better results, it seems like footwear is coming through as more of a gimic now than actually selling shoes that are appropriate for your feet.  I'll admit I own a pair of New Balance Minimus shoes that I wear around the studio and I own a pair of Vibram Five Finger Footwear, but I wear them for specific purposes.  The Minimus shoes are a barefoot style shoe that allows you too simulate barefoot running and training in a shoe version.  I love these shoes, but they are an adjustment because there is no arch support, but I feel a difference in my legs.  The Five Finger shoes are used for heavy deadlifting, squatting, and the like.  They make me feel like my feet are planted into the ground and I enjoy them, but they are difficult to run and jump in, compared to the Minimus shoes.  All in all, I feel that they both have great strength, but compared to the Shape-Ups, they reign supreme.  These Shape-Ups really need to go, not only for being useful, but they are truly an eye-soar.  They are not very attractive and most people would not go out on a date in these shoes.  If they do, they are probably going home still single or not have a chance :).

After all the ranting and raving, take care of your feet.  What works well for me may not work well for you, so do some research.  It may sound funny, but look into what you are buying with the shoes.  It may serve a good purpose, but is it your purpose.  Do what you need to do to take care of those feet because they are the only ones you have.  Take a look at the links of the shoes I listed above and then look at all the others you know so well.  Do your homework and enjoy!!  In other words, Shape-Ups can ship out, IMO!!!

Jeff