500 Women's Cardio Training Fitness Shoes - Black/White

Why wear fitness shoes?

Studies carried out at our Sportslab have shown that fitness and other sports involve a whole host of different movements. Movements such as twists, skaters, tuck jumps, squats and lunges all come into play. Unlike running, which uses mainly linear movements, fitness activities involve hardly any linear movements. Our shoes are all designed to help you perform these movements without the risk of getting injured.

Doing fitness in running shoes (or vice versa) isn't a good idea

Wearing suitable shoes for fitness reduces the risk of injury by 20% compared with people who wear running shoes.



But why? Our research and development lab has demonstrated specific ways that the foot moves in different sports: a straight stride when running, versus rotations during fitness activities. Wearing the right kind of shoes for your sports activity protects your feet and boosts your performance!

DROP: height difference between the front and back of your foot

All of our fitness shoes have a 4 mm drop. The feeling you get with this 4 mm drop is closer to that of your natural foot position (barefoot = no drop). It's important to bear in mind that, if you're used to wearing shoes with too much drop, such as high heels, it will take some time to get used to your new shoes.

Multi-directional flexibility

The multi-directional flexibility refers to how well a shoe flexes and twists to support direction changes.

Studies have shown that we need 1.7 times more flex and extension during fitness activities than during running. The ankle's movement also varies depending on the kind of fitness or running you do. That's why we've created multi-directional shoes specifically for fitness.

Forefoot support

Why is it important? Good forefoot support - a must for fitness - helps you stay balanced when you go to change direction.

Forefoot cushioning

The cushioning is the ability of the shoe to cushion impacts and dampen vibrations.

The main point of impact between the foot and the floor during fitness activities is at the forefoot, whereas for running the impact is at the heel. We design our shoes with excellent cushioning at the forefoot to protect your body from repeated impacts while also stabilising your supporting leg to help you string movements together more smoothly.

Grip and rotation

This model's grip lets you change direction quickly and easily, while the pivot zone has less grip so you can turn and spin easily without putting pressure on your joints. Striking the right balance of grip is essential. A combination of sensory, mechanical and biomechanical tests has allowed us to determine the right level of grip and which part of your foot is in contact with the floor as you pivot.

How do we prove it? PRODUCT TEST

In our labs, our researchers analyse movements using sensors that precisely measure the human body's reactions. But because nothing is as good as tried and tested experience, we've also tested our products in gyms where they'll actually be used. We use these tests to create technical and affordable products to keep you doing sport safely and comfortably.

The bonus is no marks on the floor.

Our sole has been designed to leave no marks on the floor.

Can you run on a treadmill wearing fitness shoes?

Our fitness shoes were specially designed for cardio fitness activities. They can also be used for limited treadmill running. You can wear them for a quick warm-up/cool-down on the treadmill before or after a class. However, if you plan to only run, whether on a treadmill or outdoors, you should choose a running shoe for safety reasons.

Are fitness shoes for indoor use only?

Cardio fitness is mainly done in gyms and/or at home. Our shoes have been designed for indoor use. The rubber is specially suited for indoor use as it is softer. Wearing these shoes outdoors on tarmac will cause premature wear to the rubber. The grip of our soles is tested based on the floors used in gyms or in your home, and rubber is designed to be more grippy when used in these places.