GBX Bass Sassy Toning Shoe
In November of 2009, Reebok unveiled its Easy Tone shoe and single-handidly created a trend that sent sneaker manufacturers into a flurry to bring their own versions to market. The lure of shapely, sexier legs without having to do a single squat, lunge or leg lift compelled many women to purchase a pair, or two. Chi-ching.
At the time, a handful of research - primarily funded by the sneaker manufacturers- found the shoes to be effective at shaping the muscles of the leg. And many doctors and fitness professionals were concerned about the potential for injury and misuse.
According to Prevention Magazine (May 2010), experts rated the degree of muscle tone and improvement as "modest" while noting that the possibility for injury was quite real. Nevertheless, women are still spending money for them and as long as there is a demand, the sneaker manufactures will continue to flood the market.
Tips For Walking in Toning Shoes
Prevention listed a few tips for women who want to use toning shoes for walking. First, women are encouraged to start off slowly. Some brands are heavier than regular sneakers and may cause the wearer to tire quicker and walk less. Second, women should cross-train by wearing the toning shoes for shorter, more moderate-paced walks and regular walking shoes for longer or faster-paced walks.
For additional tips and commentary: Check Out Tomorrow's Post on the FitEsteem Blog
Comments
I've always wondered about these shoes. I can't imagine wearing them while standing on the subway during rush hour. I think you would likely get similar results and be less prone to injury if you did calf raises while standing on line or squats while talking on the phone. I'm a fan of pure excercise and little "tricks" like this never seem to do much for me.
Thanks for the info!
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