F#%k my feet hurt!

I never realized how important proper shoes are until my feet started to hurt. Like most people, I never thought the cheap tennis shoes I buy were ever going to affect my feet. Well, those days are over. Now that I’m teaching eight classes a week, my feet are taking quite a beating.  A few days ago I decided I was just going to bite the bullet and buy expensive footwear.  But what kind?  There are so many to choose from! What I’ve learned is that there are tennis shoes for a variety of things. There are special shoes for running, walking, climbing, dancing and cross training. It's very confusing. I suggest you leave it to the experts. Tell them what it is you need them for and you’re good as gold! But be prepared to drop some money. I also suggest you do a bit a research before you buy the shoes.  For some reason, a lot of these specialty shoes come in the funkiest colors. My guess is these shoemakers just want people to notice their brand.

Here are some helpful hints on what shoes are best for people who like to run. One thing to remember is running shoes have forward and backward support, but not lateral. So if you are a dancer, a running shoe is not what you should buy. I did some research and this is what I found.

Some of the best women's running shoes are the following:

• Nike Zoom Vomero 4: Designed for comfort and consistency, the Zoom Vomero 4 does not have the technological bells and whistles of some of the others on this list. The value in this shoe lies in its cushioning, overall quality and all-around performance.

• Brooks Launch: Reviewers have raved about the Launch's flexibility and foot feel. Across arch types and running styles, comments on this shoe have been extremely positive.

• Asics Gel-Kayano 15: Lauded for its amazing fit and excellent cushioning, this Kayano has a bigger gel pad than ever. Reviewers agree that Asics has successfully avoided the "squishy" feel that sometimes comes with a large liquid cushion.
• Mizuno Wave Nirvana 5: Runners with a heavy gait and need for a high level of support are claiming this is the best Wave Nirvana since the original. This shoe won't be loved by all, but for those who fit the mold, it is the best shoe on the market.

Some of the best men's running shoes are the following:

• Brooks Launch: The Launch is a neutral shoe that has a light and responsive feel. Aesthetics are great, and runners can't seem to get enough of the spring the Launch puts in their stride.

• New Balance 902: The 902 may be the best combination on the market of lightweight construction and breathability paired with ample support. Cushioning is a strong point, and attention to the little things, like a secure tongue lined with moisture-wicking fabric, has New Balance at the top of many runners' wish lists.
• *Adidas Men's Fortitude 2: The Fortitude makes the list of best shoes based on construction and value. For those looking for a well-constructed, light and comfortable shoe at a third of the price of other running shoes, the Fortitude 2 is the "bang for the buck" choice.
• Asics Gel 1140: A mid-priced performer, the Gel 1140 is a lightweight and comfortable shoe. Asics offers the 1140 as a good value as well as a widely praised construction and feel in this trainer.

So, I personally haven’t found the right shoes yet. After spending $120, my feet still hurt. So back to the drawling board I go. Thank god I’m a least able to exchange them for a different pair.  Make sure when you buy tennis shoes, you are able to return them! I suggest Nordstrom. They allow you to return everything!

Check out the latest episode of Fitness Fads where I show you a crazy workout called Kangoo Jumps. Whew! The shoes are literally out of this world!