Tuesday, January 15, 2013

Shoe Review: Nike Flex Trainer 2

Anyone who knows me well is aware of my love affair with shoes. I am a sucker for footwear of any kind, but I'm also choosy about what I put on my (tiny) feet. I don't like to feel constricted or contorted when I walk, run, dance, etc. I like for my feet to be able to breathe. That sounds a bit odd, I know, but your feet do need to breathe.

I'm in the process of obtaining a certification as a personal trainer. When I started this course, I realized that I was in need of a pair of training shoes. My inner shoe lover didn't argue with me.

Notice I said training shoes. You're probably thinking, "What's wrong with using running or walking shoes/sneakers?" 

I'm glad you asked.

There is a distinct difference between training shoes and your typical pair of running or walking shoes/sneakers. Training shoes are designed to provide stability and support - that extra "sticking power" - form every angle when you're busting a crazy move during your HIIT (high intensity interval training) routine or performing balance moves (ie. any one-legged exercises). Most typical running and walking shoes/sneakers are built to be used for forward (and maybe the occasional backward) movements only. It's possible to use your favorite pair of running shoes, but I personally lose my balance less often and feel that I get a better workout when I use training shoes when doing HIIT routines, etc.

I'm a long-time Nike customer, so I immediately hit up their selection of training shoes and fell in love with the beauties you see pictured here. Love, love, love the color scheme!

I've been using these shoes for a few months now and I have no complaints whatsoever - great color selection(s) great fit, and just the right amount of support. Bravo, Nike! This girl will be back for more when these wear out.

...or when I decide I need another pair in a different color.