Prevent injuries with proper running shoes Published May 21, 2008 By Jane Clark Scott Health Education Program Manager SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. -- Is running or walking giving you "agony of de-feet?" Whether it is or it isn't, don't call the "toe truck!" Al Bromley, Health and Wellness Center Fitness Program Manager, encourages everyone to consider how important proper athletic shoes are for the Air Force Fitness Program. "You wouldn't expect a car to run well on tires that are the wrong size, type, or just worn out, but unlike cars, people don't come with an owner's manual to tell them what kind of running shoes they need," he said. "If you want to improve or maintain your fitness score, you need proper running shoes." The HAWC offers an "Anatomy of the Running and Walking Shoe" class to help individuals determine whether their shoes are right for them, their feet and their type of training. "The most common reason for overuse injuries, when overtraining is not a factor, is improper or old running shoes," said Mr. Bromley, who will also serve as the instructor. The course explains the different parts of a running shoe, the differences between walking and running shoes, and what types of shoes are best suited for each foot type. A test will also be performed to determine your foot type. Tech. Sgt. Scott Greene, First Term Airman Center NCO in charge, can personally attest to the importance of proper running shoes. "I really liked one particular brand of running shoes - I had worn them for years - until I started running to increase my mileage. I then developed sharp pains on the outside of my foot," he said. "After learning about my foot type, I realized I needed a different type of shoe. Since getting new shoes, I have increased my mileage, ran several half and full marathons, and have done so without pain." The next Anatomy of a Running Shoe class will be Thursday at 1 p.m. in the HAWC. Class size is limited. To register, call the HAWC at 256-7139.