I have never really been athletic. Outdoorsy yes, athletic no. So when I was presented with the challenge to start running, I said no. More than once. Many times, to be honest about it. Even my cousins couldn’t make me do it.

Then, Runnr gave me the opportunity to learn the Science of Running through Footworx. The geek in me said yes.

Throught he Footworx system, Runnr is able to analyze a runner’s gait. Gait analysis is the study of animal (or human) motion. Through the Footworx Video Gait Analysis system, the sales assistant of Runnr was as able to determine the kind of runner that I am and the best kind of shoes that would benefit me most.

Here’s how it worked (pardon the unsightly photos of my giant legs):

Know your Shoe Size and Arch Type

First, you must know your shoe size and your feet’s arch type. I found out one of my feet is overpronated while the other one is flat and has a low arch. It means my overpronated foot strikes the ground and does not absorb shock efficiently.

Determine Your Body Type

The next step is easy. You have to know your body type. Although I’m overweight, my weight qualifies me in the Small to Medium Body Type.

Find your shoe category

Having a small to medium body type means I should buy and use running shoes for Stability or Motion Control.

Undergo the Video Gait Process

Then, I underwent the Video Gait Analysis. It confirmed that I’m a heel striker and that I need Stability shoes.

Try on and Compare shoes

The sales assistant gave me two shoes to try on. The Brooks running shoes I tried on are specifically designed for heel strikers. It is built with shock absorbers and have what is called as DNA support.

Meanwhile, the Newton running shoes are corrective and have bars that work correct my heel striking running style. The pair is specifically for running and is not advisable to be used for other forms of exercise.

Thinking that it would be more efficient for me to get a pair of shoes that I could use for running and other forms of workout, I picked the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 11. It’s made for medium built ladies for support.

Picking the right pair of shoes for running or for other types of workout is important to make sure you don’t end up getting injured. The video gait analysis system makes sure you get shoes with better shock absorption, that there is less fatigue and stress on your joints, and it will relieve and prevent injuries.

Oh yeah, I picked a purple pair. And I pair it with fuchsia Runnr socks. Coz you have to look good even when you’re sweating it out.

I have since gone to the gym twice and I hope to go back again soon. I have my eyes on joining a Fun Run by March. Wish me and my giant thighs and overpronated foot lots of luck!

In Davao, Runnr is located at the Toby’s Arena Concept Store at the 2nd Floor of Abreeza Ayala Mall along JP Laurel Avenue, Bajada, Davao City.

For more information about Runnr and the Footworkx Video Gait Analysis system, visit the Runnr site or the Runnr FB Page.