Running is a great way to clear your mind from a stressful day or week. One thing is for sure, a good running shoe will make your run a thousand times better. If you're just getting into running or you're already an avid runner and are experiencing any pain or discomfort in your feet, shins, or knees it could actually be because of your shoes. To get the most out of your run without the pain, here are my 6 steps to picking out my running shoes.

1. Figure out your dedication, amount of miles-per-week you plan on doing, and how much you are willing to spend on a running shoe.

If you plan on running a triathlon, there is a specific shoe for that, or if you just simply like to run on trails or roads there is a different shoe. Ask around, read reviews and figure out what is the best starting point for you.

2. If you're just getting into running, look up your local runners shop.

This can be anything from your local sporting goods store, like Dick's Sporting Goods or Modells, or it can be a local, small business running shop (mine is A Running Start). Find out what brands they carry and do some research on the brands, as well as looking at their satisfaction rating. Once you have an idea of what you are looking for, look up their hours and set aside some time to go in and try on some shoes. Many running shops will carry brands like Asics, Brooks, Saucony and New Balance

4. Try on, try on, try on!

There are so many different brands and types of running shoes out there. Every foot is different so you should try on all they have to offer until you can narrow it down to two or three different ones. Once you have an idea of the fit you like, the way it fits your arches, and the overall comfort of the shoe, you can then move on to narrowing down your options.

5. Do not just pick for the color!

This is a common thing with many of us, we want everything to look great and push aside the feel. After you pick the fit, it is easy to order them in a color you like (if they don't already have it in store) or some shoe brands allow you to customize the colors. The fit and comfort of the shoe should be the most important thing

6. Once you figured out how you want your shoe to fit take them for a run.

This is crucial! The shoe may feel fine as you're just standing there but once you start moving the shoes can have a different feel. Many running shops will let you run down the block or around the inside of the store to see how they will feel while your are actually running. If you're still on the fence about how they feel, you can purchase the shoe and take them home to wear around your home or apartment.