The Oaks at Ojai
Do you ever say or think or whine, "Oh my aching feet!"? If this is all too common, then read and clip out this column. Foot fitness is an essential part of your entire body fitness and health plan. Yet, our feet are often the last things we think about when we're anxious to lose unwanted body fat or tone a tummy.

Sure you select the clothes you need for a workout and plan your day accordingly, but stop where you are right now and look at your feet. When was the last time you bought athletic shoes that match your exercise routine? Sneakers, cross trainers, basketball shoes, you name it, athletic shoes have a limited life span. Some foot experts say a pair of jogging shoes should last 500 miles. But it depends on how hard you wear them; I think athletic shoes are not meant to least more than a few months, if you're an active individual. Some of us, and I've been guilty too, think we should wear out the tops before we replace them.
According to foot experts in the fitness world, podiatrists and others in profession, your feet are the parts of your body that take the biggest beating in any exercise program. Makes sense when you think about it especially when you know that when a 150-pound jogger runs three miles, the cumulative impact on each foot is more than 150 tons. Ouch!

Now that you're sold on the foot fitness, here are some tips to get the shoes that work best for you:
Put the hype aside. Find shoes that are comfortable and sturdy for you. Expect to pay about $50, but keep an eye on sales because you can often find your favorites for less. Check for proper width, leather or canvas uppers, soles that are flexible on the ball of the foot, good arch supports and room for your toes to wiggle.

Try on both shoes with the socks you're going to wear for your workout. Bounce up and down, move from side to side, and jog in place. Most quality sports shoes need not be "broken in," so if a clerk tells you that, try on another pair. My best tip? If you find a pair that works for your feet, always buy two pairs at one time and alternate the wear.

Get socks for your workout, too. A well-cushioned sock with reinforced toe and heel works well. I prefer those with acrylic fiber content that wick away perspiration, especially for brisk walking and tennis. Check out the online sources and sporting goods stores. If you're hiking consider wearing sock liners and hiking socks to avoid blisters. Change socks immediately after a workout to prevent fungus diseases such as athlete's foot.

If you have a foot ailment or injury or if you're over your comfortable body weight, talk with a medical provider about what shoes she/he recommends. Don't be shy on this because there are over 300 different ailments that can happen to our feet. Some are hereditary and others come from a lifetime of foot abuse, including wearing ill-fitting shoes and pointy-toed high heels.

Baby your feet. A pedicure isn't just for the rich and famous, it's an inexpensive treat for your next spa or salon visit. There are "home" treatments, too, for tired feet and soaking them in a basin of Epsom salts is in expensive and relaxing. Try some of the peppermint or fragrant moisturizers. Learn some easy massage techniques. Your partner would love a pedicure; just ask.

Choose comfort when buying dress shoes. If you work in the business world, you might fall for the latest fashion dictates in footwear, but if you're walking anywhere for lunch or must hike to the parking lot, slip on your sneakers. OR buy dress shoes for active men and women.

Keep your feet dry, healthy and happy and you'll never complain again as you stay fit for life.