If your go-to workout shoes feel like you’re walking on marshmallows, we need to talk. Those thick, squishy running shoes? They might be great for jogging around the neighborhood, but they’re often one of the worst things you can wear for strength training.
At our personal training studio in St. Petersburg, Florida, one of the first things we often adjust for new clients is their footwear. Sounds simple, but switching out your shoes can instantly improve your performance, stability, and even joint health.
Not All Shoes Are Meant for the Gym
A lot of people assume that “athletic shoes” are all the same. Running shoes, cross-trainers, basketball shoes, as long as they’re sporty, they must be good for working out, right?
Not quite.
Running shoes are made to absorb impact and support forward motion. They are designed to protect your feet over repetitive strides. That soft, elevated heel and thick cushion? It creates instability when you’re lifting weights, especially during exercises like squats, deadlifts, or overhead presses.
You wouldn’t build a house on a mattress. So why would you lift weights on a pillow?
Why Flat Shoes (Or No Shoes) Work Better
When we’re strength training, we want a solid, grounded connection to the floor. That stability helps you generate more force, engage the right muscles, and move with better control.
Training in flat shoes or barefoot helps with:
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Improved balance and body awareness
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Stronger foot muscles and ankle stability
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Better posture and joint alignment during lifts
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Reduced risk of injury during strength and weight-bearing exercises
This is especially important for our clients focused on mobility, flexibility, and osteoporosis prevention. When your feet are stable, the rest of your body can move the way it’s supposed to.
What We Recommend Instead
At our studio, we train people of all ages and fitness levels. From young athletes to older adults doing senior training, we help each person find the gear and approach that works best for them.
For shoes, here’s what we usually recommend:
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Flat-soled shoes like Converse, VivoBarefoot, or minimalist trainers
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Barefoot training for certain movements, especially balance and bodyweight work
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Shoes with a wide toe box for natural foot movement
We adapt all of this based on your goals, needs, and physical condition. That’s the beauty of personalized workouts. No one-size-fits-all. We want you to feel grounded, strong, and confident from the ground up.
Looking for the Best Personal Trainer Near You?
If you’re Googling the best personal trainer near me or searching for a custom fitness program in St. Petersburg, this is your sign. Whether you’re new to the gym or ready to level up your training, we’re here to help you move better, train smarter, and feel your best.
Our professional personal trainers focus on training to your needs, not following trends, but teaching you how to build a strong, healthy body in a way that lasts. Even if that means starting by ditching your shoes.
Curious how to train stronger from the ground up? Let’s chat.
Book a free consultation and step into a program built for you, no squishy soles required.
