Q: What is pronation?

A: Pronation is the foot's natural inward rolling motion during your gait cycle. The gait cycle consists of 3 phases: (1) the heel strike, (2) the midstance (as your body's weight is fully planted), and (3) propulsion, or the toe off. During the midstance, the weight in the lower part of your leg will move in one of 3 ways - outward (supination), slightly inward (neutral pronation), or inward (over pronation).

Q: Why does it matter what shoe I wear? I have always picked my running shoe based mainly on looks.

A: Everyone's feet do different things while walking or running, therefore the shoe you wear should address any biomechanical deficiencies that may arise during your gait cycle. Here at HCRC we offer a free gait analysis where we help narrow down your seach and take the guessing work out of the process. Once we discuss with you what type of shoe is right for you (neutral, stability, or motion control), we bring out several options for you to try on and find a fit that is best for you!

Q: If I walk (never run), is it still important to have good shoes?

A: It is just as important to make sure your feet and body are getting the appropriate type of support from a shoe when walking.

Q: What is the difference between walking and running shoes? Why would I want a running shoe if I walk?

A: A running shoe will be lighter in weight (due to the more breathable mesh upper), more flexible (due to advanced technologies in the rubbers used), and more protective in regards to cushionhing systems.

Q: Can I organize a group run to start and finish at your store?

A: Absolutely! Give us a call at the store to let us know when and we will make sure we have a staff member to accomodate your groups' needs.

Q: Is it okay to wear cotton socks and apparel?

A: Cotton holds moisture in causing friction with the skin. Your socks will probably loosen up a little bit which could result in blistering.

Q: Why do my toes go numb when I run?

A: Your shoes are probably too short. Most people should get a running shoe between 1/2 size and 1 1/2 sizes bigger than their casual shoe size. Your foot will swell during the course or a run and the extra space allows for that expansion to take place comfortably.

Q: Sometimes I get a burning spot in the ball of my foot? Why?

A: This could be a result of a couple different things. You shoes could be too small which would not allow your foot to swell as it needs causing some discomfort. Also, if you are wearing cotton socks, the moisture is not escaping and loosening your sock which is creating friction.

Q: I always see nutritional aids (GU, Clif, etc)...what are these things?

A: These nutritional aids offerer a faster replenishment of electrolytes into your body as well as sugars, proteins, etc that keep the body from crashing too hard/quickly during your longer exercise days or races.