How Running Shoes are like Puppies



Remember earlier this week I told you that I did my very first 22 mile run? Well, while on that run I had a lot of time to think. One of the things I thought about was how yucky my running shoes were becoming as I slushed around in the snow and sometimes mud. I felt bad about how awful I had been treating my favorite shoes but then I remembered this: Running shoes are meant to be worn. They won’t do me any good if I keep them sitting in their box and am afraid to wear them in in- climate weather. I need to show them some love, I need to let them do their job, I need to show them the world (or at least my little part of it)!
 
This got me thinking that running shoes are a lot like puppies. It takes a certain amount of dedication to properly care for both.  Okay, you are probably thinking I am crazy right about now, but hear me out.

1.       Before you even select a pair of running shoes, you should have done some research and got a proper shoe fitting to help you find out what a good shoe would be for you. Same is true for picking out a puppy. You need to do research and find one that you are capable of properly taking care of and one that fits your life style.

2.       When you purchase your running shoes you are making a commitment to your running, your health, your training plan, etc. When you pick out a puppy you are hopefully making a commitment to properly care for the puppy.
 
3.       You have these perfect running shoes but they won’t do you any good looking pretty in the box. Take them out, go for a run, and get them dirty!  Same goes for your puppy. Those little balls of joy can be quite mischievous but you can’t keep them locked up in their crate or cage all day. They need to get out and play!
 
4.       You need to give them (both your running shoes and your puppy) a good life. Let them do the jobs they were meant to do.  I’ve used my running shoes hard this year, but I know they are happy for it (or they would be if they actually had feelings). Just this year my Altras have taken me on runs through Disney World, on the beach (literally) and on the boardwalk, through the Las Vegas Strip, and on the Appalachian Trail. My dog on the other hand has gone to the playground, runs on the trails, goes to the beach, plays with her other lab friends, and swims in our pool. I think she is just as happy!

5.       Just as you need to properly care for your puppy with Vet visits and as needed maintenance, the same is true for your running shoes. Check them often. Make sure everything is where it is supposed to be. Check your tread. Is it wearing low? Could it be time for a new pair?

 
Yes, I had a lot of time on my 22 mile run to think of this. Although it may be a little bit silly, you have to admit it is true.   -M
What do you compare your running shoes to? 

21 comments:

  1. Great comparison and so true. And yes, I also feel guilty for taking my shoes, especially when new, into mud/rain/snow, but you're right that that's what they're for!

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    1. I know, I hate seeing them get all muddy because I value them SO much!

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  2. Love this! The comparison is definitely true!

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  3. lol... that's adorable and I love the photo! I have to admit that my running shoes are pretty gross but I guess that's a good sign of them doing what they're meant to do :)

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  4. I have a hard time wearing my new running shoes in anything but pristine conditions. The first smudge of mud on them hurts! But yeah, this is what we buy them for, to use...on the road. Fun post!

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  5. haha - this is great. I love puppies... guess it makes sense I love running shoes :)

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  6. I love my puppy (like she's my own child), so I get this completely!! :)

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  7. This is hilarious and I never would have thought to compare shoes and puppies.

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    1. I never would have either but on a 22 mile run you get a LOT of time to think about stuff..lol

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  8. Cute post! I always hate when my new shoes get dirty and scratched up.

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  9. Truth. But I always compare mine to slippers! As they should be super comfy!

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  10. Lol. I guess if you think about it that way. Great job with your 22 miler!

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  11. You know I LOVE this post, right?! ;)

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Fairytales and Fitness is a personal blog authored and edited by us, Meranda and Lacey. The thoughts expressed here represent only our own and are not meant to be taken as professional advice. Please note that our thoughts and opinions change from time to time. We consider this a necessary consequence of having an open mind in an ever changing society. Any thoughts and opinions expressed within our out-of-date posts may not be the same, nor even similar, to those we may express today. Some links may contain affiliate links. Some links are just to pages we'd like to share.