Toning shoes have been all the rage for the past year. After all who wouldn’t want to burn more calories and tone simply by wearing these types of shoes! Many companies have jumped on the bandwagon and have their own version. In fact, I even saw a cheap version at Wal-Mart the other night. With everyone trying to get healthier and more fit in 2011, it would make sense to get a pair ASAP!! Well… maybe not. A study funded by American Council on Exercise took an in-depth look at three such shoes. These include MBT (Masai barefoot technology), Sketchers Shape-Ups, and Reebok EasyTone. Also, a pair of basic running shoes was used for baseline measurements. Female volunteers age 19 to 24 completed a dozen five-minute exercises on the treadmill. They tested at speeds of 3.0mph 0% grade, 3.5mph 0% grade, and 3.5mph 5.0% grade. Subjects heart rate (beats per minute), VO2, calories burned per minute, and rating of perceived exertion were all measured.

So what were the results?

Almost no difference between toning shoes and regular running shoes! The study also looked to see if it activated the muscles more than running shoes. Sadly they didn’t… and yes they even tested the gluteus maximus (AKA: butt). Now I must admit I own a pair of Sketcher Shape-Ups. However, I never bought them for toning. They are very comfortable shoes if you’re on your feet all day. I would recommend them for that use. Just don’t go out and buy them if you’re looking for better fitness results!

If you'd like to read more about the study and view the graphs CLICK HERE