#77 BUY THIS, NOT THAT... The dilemma of trainers for running, if 'natural Ozempic' is a thing and a trendy supplement for immunity

Getting your 2025 bank balance off to a healthy start with a fresh instalment of the Well, Actually... newsletter spin-off series that's all about ensuring your money is well spent...

Welcome back to my Buy This, Not That newsletter spin-off, which drops monthly.

As a health and wellness journalist—who has had the good fortune to sample numerous new launches and cult classics across the nutrition, fitness, tech, beauty and mental wellbeing spaces over the years—I often get asked what I’d actually spend my own money on. Because, for all the life-changing products out there that stand up to their claims, there are just as many buzzy buys whose glowing promises for helping the mind and body are as substantial as a puff of ashwagandha.

You can read the previous instalment of the series here (which reveals whether rosemary oil can aid hair growth, if mouth tape can really enhance sleep and the low-down on Apple’s recently unveiled Hearing Aid feature). But without further ado, let me—and some brilliant experts—help your cash flow a bit better in fresh ways…

1. Running trainers

Credit: LOEWE x On

The basics?

The good news is that running has found itself cooler than ever—from your friend who now spends every weekend ‘marathon training’ to the unlikely #collab between reliable running brand On and cult fashion label Loewe (as seen here). Which is also the bad news, because slowly but surely the affordable exercise form has taken on the guise of a rather pricey pursuit, in which we’re now handing over a small fortune for trainers when previously a cheap set from Decathlon (that you didn’t mind getting obliterated by mud) did the job.

Blame it on the big sports brands (including Nike, ASICS, Brooks Running and Adidas) kickstarting the elevation of running-focused trainers into the realm of luxurious purchases, with claims that the energy they’ve invested in certain features will quite literally put a spring in your step. And new-and-improved (box) fresh models are being released with almost as much frequency as iOS updates. Coupled with this is a rise in the idea that we need ‘special’ trainers for running—that are different from those you use for HIIT, strength training or your *hot girl walk*.

Of course, it’s worth clarifying that whichever trainers you use to pound the pavements in—whether you’re starting a new fitness routine or upping its intensity—they need to be suitably supportive. ‘A good pair can actually prevent injuries, for example by providing arch support, which works to maintain the natural alignment of your feet—and in turn helps to reduce overuse injuries, such as shin splints,’ explains James Bickerstaff, personal trainer at OriGym. ‘They will also provide cushioning that helps to absorb the impact of your workouts, which reduces stress on joints like your ankle and knees.’

What the health?

Walk into a shop that stocks trainers for working out in and you’ll be met with more choice than you could possibly imagine. ‘When it comes to running, the key features ultimately depend on the type of running you’re doing,’ says Bickerstaff. For instance, he explains that marathon runners would greatly benefit from additional cushioning, whereas trail runners should look for pairs with good grip, traction and ankle support.

But if you like to mix up your runs with other types of training, you may be wondering if a dedicated pair is really necessary. ‘If running is occasional, then you can consider all-purpose trainers,’ says Sarah Campus, personal trainer and founder of LDN MUMS FITNESS. However, if it’s set to be your focus, then it’s worth getting specific. ‘Shoes for running are built for forward motion and also tend to be more cushioned,’ she explains.

Now, Bickerstaff notes that many running trainers will be beneficial to other types of exercise too. ‘Some could be suited to HIIT sessions, with the cushioning absorbing the impact of high-intensity movements like burpees to protect your joints,’ he points out. ‘Likewise, trail running trainers will often come with a non-slip sole, which will prevent you from sliding on floors during fast-paced drills.’

Yet, while simply getting from A to B on a 5k might be the goal of some (hello, me!), lacing up in the right pair for running can also help you achieve PBs. ‘These trainers have been designed for that specific activity and will therefore be tailored to enhance performance,’ explains Campus. ‘They will also reduce discomfort, allowing you to focus on your workout, and can also reduce fatigue in your feet and legs—meaning you can go for longer.’

Anything else?

Unfortunately, the greater spend on trainers tends to correlate with a better quality product. ‘However, while they might come with good features—for example Nike Air and Adidas Boost are known for their enhanced cushioning—and they’ll likely be made of stronger, long-lasting materials, sometimes you will pay a higher price simply for the brand name,’ notes Bickerstaff, who insists that—with a bit of research—effective cheaper alternatives are out there.

Campus agrees that price doesn’t always equate to a premium product. ‘It’s more important to focus on fit, functionality and the requirements of your specific activity—and a moderately priced pair of trainers might provide everything you need,’ she insists. Indeed, sat in my own wardrobe right now are a pair of runners from Oysho and another from Veja, and both have served me just fine.

A great starting point, says Campus, is to look to the well-known brands—who have often invested in research and development. If you don’t have too much budget to play around with, she recommends looking at their older models and prioritising comfort over aesthetics. ‘There needs to be enough space for your toes to move around and no pinching,’ she adds. ‘Check outlet stores and sales.'

If you’ve got some funds to spend, continues Campus, then you should look to get your hands on a pair that use premium materials and advanced technologies. ‘Focus on features like arch support, shock absorption and durability,’ she recommends. ‘Nike Zoom and ASICS GEL provide advanced cushioning, for example.’ And getting a gait analysis done for a super-tailored fit is the gold standard in this department.

Well, Actually…verdict: If running is a significant part of your exercise routine, then it’s important to treat your feet to a pair that will step up to the task. Try to invest in the best pair you can afford—and certainly don’t just reach straight for the prettiest on the shelf.

2. ‘Natural’ Ozempic

Credit: Lemme