Are you new to strength training? If you’re just starting out, you may have seen gym-goers wearing different types of shoes to strength train. Since there are different types of strength training like CrossFit, Olympic weightlifting, and powerlifting, the way you train impacts the shoes you should be wearing. Whatever you do—don’t strength train in running shoes. Here’s your guide to strength training shoes.
Cross-Training Shoes
These shoes work for most strength training activities and they can also be worn while running or doing other types of cardio. They have a slight cushion for support and are sturdy. While they sometimes look similar to running shoes, cross-training shoes have little heel lift and are usually flat. They’re great for all different types of cardio and strength training exercises.
Weightlifting Shoes
If you’re doing Olympic lifting, are a competitive powerlifter, or lift heavy weights, consider getting a weightlifting shoe. They’re really heavy which makes them stable. In addition, they have a heel lift that’s about one or one and a half inches high, which gives extra elevation and helps people with bad ankle mobility do deeper squats. They’re not great for cardio exercises like burpees and box jumps.
