One fitness trend that has gained popularity in recent years is the use of weight loss shoes. These shoes are designed in such a way that more calories are burned just by walking in them compared to normal shoes. Many products have been introduced and one such Skechers shoe called Shape-Ups is worth a closer look. In this article we will present a concise review on this shoe.
For a little background, the science behind weight loss shoes is based on solid foundations. The shoe simulates walking on sand, and fitness experts have realized that it’s a great way to get in shape. When you walk on the sand, you lose your balance a bit and it forces you to use your muscles more as you walk. Skecher Shape-Ups are designed to do just this with the rocker design of the sole. The heel and sole are angled in such a way that it makes you feel like you are walking on stilts or standing on a mattress. This keeps you slightly off balance and forces you to use additional muscles in your feet, calves, thighs, and midsection. Since you burn more calories when you use your muscles, you will theoretically lose more weight.
Skechers Shape-Ups claim that by wearing their shoes you will not only lose weight, but also have better posture and a firmer midsection. There are other benefits as well, such as helping to increase muscle tone in the legs and calves, and possibly relieving back pain and tension. The shoes are designed so that even walking in them requires you to have your back straight on a flat stomach, which helps you burn extra calories.
Some people wear Shape-ups all the time or in scheduled intense walking workouts. The first few times you put them on, your leg muscles will ache and your feet will ache while walking in them. This goes away after a while and you get used to how they feel and how to walk with them. You don’t want to wear these shoes for running, as walking is perfect for them. You can walk on flat surfaces, but for a good burn you can use them to go up and down hills.
I have found that almost everyone who wears these shoes and exercises in them regularly will get some benefit from them. The most common improvements are better posture, strengthening the leg muscles, toning the calves and abs, and losing some weight. These shoes won’t make you feel like you’re walking on sand, but the rocking motion will make you feel like you’re standing on a boat, and it takes effort to walk in them.
You can find these shoes at most online retailers. They are somewhat expensive and range from $75 to $150. To be honest, I don’t find them particularly appealing, but if they provide a health benefit, I don’t really care. They’re big and uncomfortable looking, with that rocker sole. Sketchers offers the Shape-ups in a variety of styles, from a traditional tennis style to darker leather shoes that look more casual and formal. Overall, I highly recommend these shoes and I think you will find them to be beneficial and a good investment in your health.