I received a free pair of New Balance rock&tone sneakers. Because of a shipping issue, I was able to choose my color and selected a sleek looking pair of silver and blue kicks. Thanks New Balance!!!
I think most toning shoes look like orthopedic models so I was aiming for a pair with a little bit of style!
The curved bottom of these shoes created instability when I walked or stood. I wore them for a 9 hour shift at work. I read that the imbalance could cause anywhere from 11%-41% increased muscle activity.
Choosing fitness shoes
When looking for a pair of fitness shoes, the key is comfort. One expert offers these tips:
- Regardless of the brand, seek the one that’s comfortable to you.
- Check to see that the heel is perpendicular to the sole of the shoe.
- The shoe should have medium firmess, not too soft or hard. It should be somewhat bendable.
Source: Dr. R. Amadeus Mason, Emory Sports Medicine Center
By the end of my workday, in between my shoulder blades was killing me. Super sore and tired! Almost as if I had been standing with better posture all day. And my typically slumped shoulders were feeling the burn. As soon as I got home and took the shoes off, whined for a shoulder rub, and relaxed, the pain went away.
I don’t think these rock&tone sneakers eliminate the need to hit the gym. I’m taking all toning claims with a grain of salt.
But with black sweats, I thought they looked cool. And the curved bottom added a little bit of length to my short legs, never a bad thing! I’m really focused on improving my posture, and if these shoes make me feel like that is happening, then I’ll continue to wear them. At least one day a week. To work at the gym. But not to actually work out… 
COMMENTS
7 Comments
1. Kelly
July 20th, 2010 10:03 AM
I’m totally skeptical of these, I’m not going to lie, but it’s still interesting to hear the review. I would think they would make your calves feel tight by the end of the day. Is this not the case?
2. BostonRunner
July 20th, 2010 10:47 AM
I’m skeptical too.. but I’ve definitely been scouting out New Balance’s version -they have a great look!
3. Lindsay @ The Ketchup Diaries
July 20th, 2010 11:25 AM
Much better than the tan ones!
4. Abby
July 20th, 2010 12:39 PM
I’m definitely skeptical! I like those colors though!
5. Melinda
July 20th, 2010 02:00 PM
Those are cool. I saw I think on the Today show or something where some of those toning shoes do not make you burn more calories, but I guess it can probably correct posture and help you stand straighter.
6. Samantha @ Health, Happiness & Skinny Jeans
July 21st, 2010 07:59 AM
I have always wondered about these. I get the concept but I think they might lead some people to believe that they can take the easy route, that the shoes do the work for them. Let us know how they are working out.
7. Bekah @ runtrackmind
July 21st, 2010 08:21 AM
Hmmm, not to sure about these “shaper shoes”.
A little of post subject, just wanted to say it was nice meeting you the other night and btw I tried the directions to France and I did not get, the swim option….think he might have been messing with you