Skechers Shape Ups

Skechers Shape Ups take fitness to a whole new level. Get more toned up while you simply walk around and perform your normal daily tasks.

There are several styles of men's and women's Shape Ups available in women's sizes 5 to 11 and men's sizes 6 to 16. They're meant to give you a workout without the gym and:

• Improve the circulation of your blood
• Strengthen your back
• Firm up your calf and buttocks muscles
• Improve your posture
• Tighten your abs
• Tone your thighs
• Reduces cellulite

The beauty of these shoes is that they just look like normal shoes that have chunky soles. No one else has to know they're workout shoes unless they're familiar with the style. They don't look especially clunky. In fact, they look stylish and athletic—just a cute shoe with a curved sole.

Because they change the way you walk and simulate walking on soft sand via a rolling motion from heel to toe, it's recommended that you "train" your feet to walk in them. Don't remove them from the box the morning after your purchase and put them on for a 10-hour day. Try 25 to 45 minutes per day for a week or two to get accustomed to the difference in movement.

Once you're used to walking in them, you can wear the Shape Ups for errands, going to work or school, shopping, walking the dog, or even while you work out for an extra boost to your exercise routine (running in them is not recommended). You may find them so comfortable to walk in and the results so great that you never want to take them off. Some of the reviewers on various websites seem to feel that way.

There are styles for men and women, though the women's selection is wider.

• Jump Start: White/silver/light blue casual lace-up sneaker
• Strength: Black/white lace-up sneaker
• Metabolize: Solid black or white lace-up sneakers that could be good for work
• Sleek Fit: Mary Jane style shoes available in black
• Action Packed: Lace-up sneakers available in gray/pink
• Motivator: Mary Jane style work shoes in solid black
• Optimize: Black lace-up sneakers with white stitching detail
• Trim Step: Sandal style available in chocolate and desert

• Overhaul: Casual lace-up sneaker available in black and dark brown
• Regimen: Casual lace-up sneaker available in navy/black, charcoal/black, and black/brown
• S R-M: An all-black work sneaker

A six-week clinical trial revealed that the Skechers Shape Ups do work to increase strength and lower weight and body fat. The results included an average of 3.25 pounds lost, a 1.125 percent loss of body fat, increased lower back endurance of 37 percent, and increased glutei strength of 47 percent. Participants did not change their diet or exercise habits but merely wore the Shape Ups while going about their normal routines.

Reviews on sites like Amazon.com, Amazon.co.uk, Zappos and various blogs are glowing. Some people had to order a half size larger, but many were able to go with their usual size and nearly everyone raves about their comfort. Those who have foot concerns such as very high arches or general discomfort in most shoes write in to say how much they love their Shape Ups and the comfort they provide.

One of the downsides to the Skechers Shape Ups lies in the cost. Expect to pay around $100 to $125 for a pair of Shape Ups. Sites where you can purchase the shoes include:

• Amazon.com
• Shoes.com
• Online shoe stores
• eBay.com
• Any of the Skechers stores shown on the Store Locator page
• Skechers outlet stores
• Athletic shoe stores

If you're looking for a great way to work out without really working out, try Skechers. Tone your muscles, increase your blood circulation, and work to improve your posture in these stylish sneakers while you run your daily errands or stand at work or school. Going shopping? Tone your legs while you do it. The Shape Ups can take you anywhere while doing great things for your health.

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