Body Attack has been growing in popularity at Good Friends since we opened on January 2, 2010. Each week, new people are discovering this sports-inspired, cardiovascular workout for building strength and stamina. Body Attack is a high-energy interval training class that combines athletic aerobic movements with strength and stabilization exercises. And I may be biased because I'm an instructor, but I believe Attack has some of the most powerful and motivating music anywhere.
As a Body Attack instructor, my job is to help all participants achieve their fitness goals safely and effectively. This class is designed for everyone, from the weekend athlete to the hard-core competitor. In a typical class, you will see people working at various levels of intensity, moving from low- to high-impact options throughout the 55 minute workout. This class will get you fit, keep you fit, and make you fitter each time you step into the room. But in order to get the most out of your Body Attack workout, the proper pair of shoes is essential.
Why is the proper pair of shoes important for Body Attack? As I've already mentioned, the class is high energy, and can be high-impact if you choose. We run. We jump. We push our bodies to new limits. Our feet are the foundation of our workout, and we certainly want them to be cushioned and supported. Body Attack is different from running or cycling in that we move in all directions, not just in the frontal plane. For instance, we may take two side steps, then jump forward and back. The footwear you choose for this class needs to support movement in all directions. Finally, the proper pair of shoes will enhance form and technique, reducing the likelihood of injury. Performing the movements correctly will ensure many years of participating in Body Attack classes.
What types of shoes are good for Body Attack? This question comes up frequently among Body Attack enthusiasts as well as instructors. It's important to know that there is no universal shoe that's perfect for everyone. And there are some types of shoes that should NEVER be worn in Body Attack; walking, hiking, ballet or casual shoes like Keds or Sketchers should be left at home due to a lack of arch and lateral support! There are however two types of shoes that can be good candidates for Body Attack: cross trainers and running shoes. Let's go over the benefits and drawbacks of each.
The strongest argument for wearing cross trainers is that they offer excellent lateral support for when we execute moves such as the Gallop, Superman, and the 3-Step Agility. They can also be adequate footwear for the moves we execute in the frontal plane, such as the front kick, lunge, and run. One argument against cross trainers is that they can feel heavy and clunky. Running shoes, on the other hand, are known for being light on the feet. The main drawback to using running shoes in Body Attack is that they are designed for forward motion, and lack good side support. Another option to consider: some brands such as Asics and New Balance are now offering an aerobics shoe that marries the side support of cross trainers with the light weight of running shoes.
How do I find the right pair of shoes for my body? This, my friends, is the million dollar question! I have to be honest, in my quest for the perfect pair of Body Attack shoes, I enlisted the help of professionals. I knew that I wasn't exercising in the right pair of shoes when I developed pain in my feet and lower legs after Attacking. Participants should never feel pain in their feet, ankles, or front of the leg (aka shin splints) during or following exercise of any sort. A good rule of thumb is to discuss any exercise-related pain with your physician for a diagnosis and referral. Tallahassee is fortunate to have a handful of specialty shops with well-trained foot specialists that can recommend activity-appropriate, well-fitting shoes. A professional can also help identify if you pronate, supinate, or need special inserts (aka orthotics) for additional support.
I hope that this brief article has been useful in helping you decide if the shoes you're wearing to Body Attack are giving you the proper foundation of support. For further information, please consult the Les Mills website (www.lesmills.com) or your physician. Kia Kaha! Stand Strong!
