 "Get set for the marathon")
Identify your foot type
Despite being a runner, I have never paid much attention to my gait. Then I heard about Japanese sports goods maker ASICS offering a “FOOT ID” (complimentary if you’re buying a pair of shoes; Rs 500 if you aren't). First, my feet were scanned at several angles; next, I put on a pair of socks with “stickers” with the testing shoes and was asked to run on the treadmill. A FOOT ID specialist took me through the paces. I knew I was flat-footed and a mid-foot striker, but I didn’t know that I also had overpronation — my feet rolled inwards when I ran.
Based on the findings, I was recommended the GT-3000 3 (3rd generation, for Rs 8,999), where I found the forefoot to be a bit narrow for my wide foot. There was enough cushioning even when I struck the ground hard on the heel. A few sharp turns convinced me the pair provided enough grip. But pick a size bigger than your usual.
If the ZPump Fusion impressed you last year, you’ll like this one more. For starters, the single-piece design for the sleeve has been replaced by mesh, resulting in more ventilation, and thus, less sweaty feet. And if you’re a mid-sole striker, you’ll notice the gas-filled carbonated foam, which cushions your feet when you strike your foot on gravel. I loved running in this pair — the material provided enough grip and flexibility during an exercise session indoors. Pump it about 35 times for the best support.
Being flat-footed, I generally try out a new pair of shoes for a shorter duration before committing to them for the whole day. But, taking a chance, I laced on this pair for the first time for a full day’s trip to Agra. And came back impressed due to the comfort and support it provided. The toe box is just right; the mid-sole provides great springback, so you’re itching to extract that last mile. And it compensates for the little or no arch I have.
Track your moves
Wearables that’ll up your fitness ante
The latest version of the Watch looks nearly identical to the previous one, but has a zippier performance and more intuitive OS. Besides, it bundles GPS and is waterproof, meaning one can jump into the pool without a care. Battery life, too, is better than the previous iteration, especially with GPS switched off. The readings are quite accurate.
Titan Juxt Pro (Rs 22,995)
Titan’s first full-fledged smartwatch is massive and heavy and the OS and apps are basic. That said, the watch interface looks fabulous on the colour touchscreen and with it one can click a photo using the paired phone. Of the two buttons, a long press on the second one initiates a call to an emergency contact. But it doesn’t have enough juice to last a day.
Samsung Gear Fit2 (Rs 13,990)
Samsung’s latest fitness band isn’t shackled to Galaxy smartphones any more. Not only does it pair with all phones with at least 1.5GB of RAM and running Android 4.4, it also bundles a GPS tracker so you can leave your phone behind on the early morning run. Water and dust resistant, it features a brilliant screen and is quite light.
The Vivosmart range is a nice balance between a fitness tracker and some “smart” functions found on smartwatches. The Vivosmart HR+ does all this: tracking steps, heart rate, stairs climbed, distance walked, calories burnt and sleep, along with a host of other notifications from the phone. Plus, it also has an in-built GPS activity tracker that lets you track where and how far you jogged or how fast you ran.
