Do I Need Special Shoes?

Because of the harder impact of running, the shoes you wear and the surface you run on require careful attention. Chapter 7 makes some suggestions for running shoes. Make sure that your shoes provide adequate cushioning and foot control. Replace your shoes more frequently than you would for a walking program; do not try running in worn-out shoes.

Notice that I include strengthening in the suggestions for training, even though this section covers running. A key to success with my own program has been my strengthening regimen; it has greatly decreased my knee pain after jogs. Studies show that knee strength is lower in individuals with arthritis. Increased muscular strength helps to absorb the force of impact that running transmits through one's lower extremities.