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Stepping Out 

2004 Walking  Guide

 

Smart Stuff for Walkers

Tie 'Em Right

How you tie your shoes can solve foot problems.

Problem: Slipping heels

Solution: Lace-lock. Lace shoes as usual, but thread the last two holes before the knot (closer to ankle) on each side without crisscrossing, then thread the laces across in an X-shape and tie.

Problem: Hammertoes, corns, blisters or toenail problems

Solution:
Lifting the toe box. Instead of starting your lacing at the top, thread the lace from an end hole to its opposite top hole, then lace as usual.

Problem: Top-of-foot pain

Solution:
Skipping a hole or two. Lace your shoe as usual, but instead of crisscrossing every time, thread straight through one or two holes, then crisscross as usual and tie.

Shoe Shopping Tips

> Buy shoes at the end of the day, because feet may swell as the day progresses.

> Make sure there is at least a thumbnail's length of space between your longest toe and the tip of the shoe.

> Have both feet measured.

> Bend the shoe in your hands to test the sole's flexibility; if it doesn't bend, don't buy.

> Wear the same socks you'll wear to walk when trying on shoes.

> Replace your shoes every 300 to 600 miles or three to six months.

 

 

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Just-Right Walking Plan | Before You Start | Tread on Me | Is Your Town Making You Fat? | Cool and Stretch | Top Walking Questions | 6 Reasons to Stick with Walking | Which Shoe for You? | Shoe Shopping Tips | Tie 'Em Right | Walk Better with Great Gear

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