Are Toning Shoes Safe?
Who says going to the gym is the only way to lose weight and get a toned and attractive body. If you believe recent marketing reports, toning shoes also help you to cut weight quickly and tone your body. A good pair of toning shoes costs about $400 and they are the new craze from the athletic world, and the demand is projected to grow at least 500%, which is huge. The claim from companies is rather surprising. People will get a free lower body workout and toned legs by just wearing a pair of shoes; isn't it weird. Can you believe that the list of best-selling athletic shoes features almost 6 pairs of toning shoes; 2 Easy Reebok Tones and 4 Skechers Shape Ups.
Since their debut in the market, there's a huge debate in the world on whether toning shoes work. Now, that debate has taken a back seat and a new question has aroused - are toning shoes safe? Toning shoes claim to give you a perfect lower body, including toned legs, thighs, calves and butt. Toning shoes have pods in the bottom which are there to make the wearer feel uncomfortable. To maintain proper balance while wearing these shoes, you have to use your muscles which means that these shoes are giving your leg muscles great exercise. Many sports apparel companies declare this as a tried and tested method, but still there's a doubt about your safety after wearing these shoes.
Safety Issues with Toning Shoes
The safety issue received a lot of bad press when a 48-year-old Ohioan woman filed a lawsuit against Skechers claiming that the use of their Shape Up Shoes caused her leg injuries. There are many factors involved in this incident, lot of people think that this may be because of the extensive use of toning shoes. Nonetheless, this incident gathered lots of media attention and people have also opened up a website where you can register your complaint about toning shoes and lawyers will help you.
The important thing to remember is that toning shoes are like an exercise equipment. So extensive use should be avoided, it's important that you follow the manufacturer's instructions while using toning shoes for exercise. Care should be taken if you have suffered from any previous medical condition, and you never attempt exercises which your body is unable to do. Another important thing to remember is to select the right type of toning shoes for the various styles and brands available in the market. Most toning shoes are specifically designed for walking, but toning shoes for running or jogging have also been introduced.
To check the durability of your toning shoes look for the APMA (American Podiatric Medical Association) seal. Shoes which bear the APMA seal are considered of top quality and safe for walking. Once you buy your new pair of toning shoes, it's going to take some time for your legs to get used to them. Don't force yourself to wear these shoes for long periods until you become accustomed to them. They should fit you well, although they may feel a bit strange in the beginning. Toning shoes are designed to make your feet feel a little balanced, but not so uncomfortable that you find difficulty in walking. Read the manufacturer's instructions carefully before using them.
Are toning shoes safe? This question can have different answers from different people. The best way to know is to go and check the shoe out for yourself and see if it is safe for you or no. Even if you suffer or don't suffer from any medical conditions, it's always a good idea to take some medical advice before you think of buying a new pair of toning shoes.
