Shoes advertised to have a "special" toning and calorie burning effect have been very popular lately. Companies like Sketchers and Reebok have been highly advertising these products. Most shoe companies that offer these "life changing" shoes claim that they tone the legs and glutes. Shoe companies also claim that when you wear them, you burn more calories than walking or exercising in normal shoes. All of these benefits sound great, but how true are they?

The advertising for these shoes always features a very thin and toned woman walking around in the shoes, which leads the consumer to believe that these shoes will makes them thin too. Most of the commercials on television have close-up camera shots of women's toned glutes and legs. Not much detail on how this product makes that happen. The commercials also show famous athletes and stars promoting the shoes. Their sales tactics are great, but are there major flaws in the product? Recently, a big buzz has arisen about lawsuits against the company Sketchers for false advertisement. There have also been lawsuits regarding injures from the toning shoes. Consumers have reported knee and back pain. There have also been reports of injuries like fractures and tendon issues caused by the shoes.

A study completed by the Departments of Physical Therapy and Exercise and Sport Science, University of Wisconsin-La Crosse compared regular shoes to "fitness shoes" using a treadmill test and EMG measurements (Electromyography). The results of the study showed there was no statistical different between "fitness shoes" like "Shape-ups" and "Easy Tone" and regular exercise shoes. The article also went on to say that the fitness shoes had no exercise intensity effect or extra effect on calorie expenditure.

If you have shoes like this or are thinking about purchasing these products, take a hard look at recent information. It might change your mind. Fitness and weight loss can be difficult. We are constantly trying to find new and interesting ways to make fitness more fun and easy. If the product or program seems "magical" or quick and easy, sadly enough it probably doesn't work. Participating in regular cardio and strength training is the way to reach your goals. Also sticking to a healthy well-balanced diet is a major factor. Living your life with these healthy habits will keep you at a healthy weight. Putting on a pair of unbalanced shoes will not do the trick.