By: Michael Baker
I used to believe I couldn't run more than 2 or 3 miles because when I did my feet would hurt, fall asleep & get blisters. It was bad! As it turns out, I was wearing the wrong sneakers my whole life.
My first Brooks were Adrenaline GTS 17. It was actually pure luck because my wife got them for me as a random birthday gift several years back. When I wore them it was obvious to me that these particular sneakers were more accommodating, stable and cushioned than any I had ever tried. It's like they held my feet together. So I ran in them.
Long story short I ended up running a full marathon in Adrenaline 19's a couple of years later. In the process of obsessing over how great my feet felt in Brooks sneakers I began to experiment with other styles. Nothing else worked until I found Glycerin GTS 19.
I ran 15 half-marathons in 3 back-to-back pairs of the exact same Glycerin GTS 19's. They are hands down the most comfortable shoes to ever be on my weird flat feet.
I have Adrenaline 22 GTS on right now and Glycerin 20's are here getting broken in.
I've tried them all. All the cool Nike and Adidas and other well-known brands are all too slim, too tight, too hard, too something. I want to note that I went down a very long road (both figuratively and literally) and after trying multiple New Balance Fresh Foam, Hoka One One, Mizuno, Asics Gel-Kayano, Saucony Guide/Echelon, Asics GT-2000/4000 all in both normal & wide. Nothing compared to the comfort and ability to run distance that Brooks provides me. Also, not one of them was true to size except Brooks: Mens Size 10. Every time. Consistency is rare these days.
So, for all of my flat foot readers, I hope you can enjoy running distance like me with a pair of Brooks Glycerin GTS or Adrenaline GTS. I will give Brooks Ghost a mention because I love them for walking. They also have cool styles and color combos but I can't do Ghost for distance running. I need that deep cushion and stability that Glycerin GTS and Adrenaline GTS provide.
What is GTS in Brooks Sneakers and why is it good for flat feet?
From Brooks: "Did you know that “GTS” stands for, “Go-to support?” We add the GTS label on all shoes with Guiderails Support. This means that these shoes contain support technology that keeps your natural movement in a safe range so you can run with more comfort and less pain."
The GTS in Brooks sneakers can be good for flat feet because it features raised sidewalls called "Guiderails" that cup the foot and provide underfoot support. This design can be ideal for flat-footed runners who need a lot of support. The Guiderails system can also help keep the foot and knee aligned.
The Adrenaline GTS has a 12mm drop from heel to toe, which can help put more weight in the forefoot and away from the heel. The extra cushioning in the heel can help minimize excess movement, which can provide support for the feet, knees, and hips. The Adrenaline GTS also has a rubber sole, plush cushioning, and moderate arch support.
1. Brooks Glycerin GTS
Glycerin GTS Mens | Glycerin GTS WomensMy go-to #1 favorite RUNNING sneakers. I genuinely don't like their appearance. I hope the design catches up to the functionality soon because it's hard to buy $160 sneakers I don't wear at all, anywhere except the road.
2. Brooks Adrenaline GTS
Adrenaline GTS Mens | Adrenaline GTS WomensBrooks Adrenaline are a close #2. For a flat footer like myself, walking, training runs and my day-to-day movement is a joy and a luxury in Adrenaline GTS 22. I have never been able to find the comfort I find in Brooks Adrenaline GTS and Brooks Glycerin GTS.
3. Brooks Ghost
Ghost Mens | Ghost WomensBrooks Ghost is a solid choice if you don't need a heavily cushioned sneaker. They're a great every day trainer for most people. For my flat feet, these are fantastic for walking and tend to have very cool colors available. But, they fell flat when I tried them to run distance.
Also, consider a new padded breathable running sock. These are my go-to favorites.
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Steve Magi
Working with Mike has been a game-changer. From day one, it was clear that I had stumbled upon a gem in the world of personal training.
First and foremost, Mike has a remarkable setup at his home for one-on-one training. It's the perfect blend of a comfortable, private space and a fully-equipped gym, creating an ideal environment for focused workouts. The moment I stepped in, I felt at ease and motivated to push my limits.
What sets Mike apart is his ability to craft tailored, bespoke workout plans that are thoughtful and effective. Regardless of whether you're a beginner taking your first steps in the world of weightlifting or someone who's been exercising for years, he has a knack for designing programs that cater to your unique needs and goals. Every session is a personalized journey towards achieving your fitness goals. It's clear that Mike has a deep understanding of physiology and exercise science, and he uses that knowledge to optimize each session.
But it's not just about the workouts. Mike is an exceptional motivator and mentor. His passion for fitness is contagious - he listens intently, offers guidance with patience, and ensures that you not only perform exercises correctly but also understand the 'why' behind them.
Thanks to Mike, I've not only regained my passion for lifting weights, but I also have achieved outstanding results in a very short amount of time. I feel stronger, more explosive, and even faster, all thanks to his expertise and support.
If you're searching for a personal trainer who can provide a top-notch training experience in a welcoming and tailored setting, look no further than Mike. Working with him has been a fantastic experience, and I wholeheartedly recommend him to anyone on their fitness journey.
Mike Richetelli
Mike is very dedicated to health and wellness, including having a strong knowledge base about nutrition. I have trained with him for several months and have attained my fitness goals. He's taught me many alternative ways to workout, deviating from traditional exercises.
Chad Bedell
I started with MB Wellness in early March 2023. The passion Michael brings to every session is second to none, whether it is a cardio day, stretch/yoga day, or strength day he is always encouraging me and talking through some "roadblocks" I may have had the previous week. If you are a 40+ male and looking to get back in shape in a private one-one setting, Michael is your man. He will guide you physically and mentally getting you to your goals and beyond.
Terrance Arroyo
Mike has been amazing to work with. Someone to give advice and keep me accountable without ever talking down to me or making me feel bad about my choices or decisions. He has helped me with Diet and Exercise, understands my goals and my situation, helps me through at my pace. He is invested in me doing better. Give him a shot.
Elevate Personal Training & Wellness
Shout out to Michael J Baker! Listen, even Certified Personal Trainers can use some good advice, motivation and need a sounding board to reach their goals. He’s a stand up guy who is knowledgeable, a family man and just a great mentor for anyone trying to love their best life! Thanks Mike! You’re the best!
John Keklik
I have known Michael for over 30 years. I was so happy when I seen that he was doing this Health And Wellness program because he is in very good shape and he is very smart and knowledgeable about what he’s telling people to do to lose weight and eat healthy after just one month of working with Michael at 215 pounds. I have already lost 5 pounds and I am very motivated to reach my goal which is 185 just talking to him about what I was eating and doing wrong what’s so helpful for me whether was in person or over the phone he gives you plenty of information and details to work with while visiting his home. His family and him were very welcoming and warm to me as always I couldn’t of asked for a better person to help me with my journey , and anybody that needs help with their health and wellness. I would highly recommend Michael to be somebody to work with.
Erica Baker
Mike has inspired me to do so many things over the years including yoga, weight lifting, running and overall guidance on food. I am pretty sure I was his first client and he really knows how to motivate and get great results!
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