It's not often that something as revolutionary as a new way of running comes along!, so when the Newton running shoe along with its Land, Lever, Lift running principle it was only right that we gave it a go and told you what we think.

Change is not an easy thing and taking on this new style does require some fundamental changes which we probably take for granted, most of us have been running since we were children, for one reason or another we each established a our own mechanism that gets us running. For the large majority of us we run with a heel strike first, slowly rotating till we end up on our toes, propelling us forward.

For years I have run in this way, and although not a very accomplished runner, it has worked for me. BUT then came the Newton Running shoes and the science that comes with it. The new running style promotes "forefoot strikes" where the first part to come into contact with the floor is the forefoot, not your toes!, your forefoot. Its hard to explain this without inviting you to watch and listen to the video compiled by Newton to explain the theory.

Hopefully the video has helped to put this all into context. It's actually quite simple! I was very sceptical about the NewtonRunning process and so i wanted to put it all to the test. My reasons for doing this are twofold; a) I wanted to give you guys my impression of running with the shoes b) my running is actually quite poor, so I am not really likely to be losing out.

So here is what I found:

When you put the shoe on it fits like a glove, it's also a lot lighter than any other trainer i have had. I ordered the Newton Gravity! - its awesome. as soon as I put it on I wanted to get out and try it out. When I first started running i realised that I had to think quite hard about the physiology of the running, the technique requires a bit of thinking. I naturally slowed down and shortened my stride, this helped a lot. The first time I went out i planned on doing about 2 miles, see how i felt. I ended up doing my usual 4 miles circuit, the funny thing was that I felt like I could have just kept going. I finished in a faster time than normal and a lot less tired. I expected to be in a world of pain the next day too? But nothing! - it felt great.

There were some drawbacks which I am sure will go with time. I did experience a bit of numbness in my right foot, Newton running does recommend that you have your shoes properly fitted..which I didn't. I am ok with the fit, and have had this happen before with other trainers as they bed down and mould into my feet.. no not particularly worried about that.

I have since been able to increase my runs - now doing 6-8 miles without much of an issue. The calf muscles are taking a little more strain than they use to, but then again i would expect that, but the improvements in my times and fitness is awesome!

Conclusion:

I am a convert! - this has got some good science behind it. If you take the time to get the technique right I am sure that you will see the benefit of this shoe. I am planning on running two marathons early next year wearing these shoes.. Ill let you know how they ( and me) do!

If you want to have a look at the NewtonRunning shoes and if you are considering buying them here is a link to the Main UK importers for the Newtonrunning shoe.