Fit Flops: A Workout while you Walk?

When it comes to toning shoes, people generally tend to fall into one of three categories:

1. They already own a pair
2. They’ve considered buying a pair but are still pondering whether they actually work or if they’re just another fitness fad

 Or…

3. They’ve sworn to never, ever purchase a pair. Ever!

When I was given the opportunity to test run a pair of FitFlop sandals recently, I wasn’t sure what the end result would look like – would I become a ‘toning shoe believer’ and be rewarded with a more sculpted set of legs and firmer behind, or, would I be let down by a pair of shoes that failed to deliver? I figured the only way I’d know for sure was to ditch my regular shoes, don my FitFlops and get stepping.

Now, I’m not going to lie to you, the look and feel of the Lolla FitFlops (the style I chose) made me feel slightly uneasy at first. Why? I guess the main reason was because the platform sole triggered memories of the shoes I wore when I dressed up like a Spice Girl as a kid (children of the 90s, you know you did it too). Once the Spice Girl flashbacks passed and I got used to feeling a little bit higher off the ground, I got down to business.

In a nut shell, FitFlop sandals are designed to work by tightening your leg muscles while you walk. The brand’s secret weapon comes in the form of its unique, muscle-loading Microwobbleboard™ technology which increases the time that your muscles are engaged every time you step. The shoes also work to absorb up to 22% more shock than a normal shoe and help realign ground force reaction closer to your joints.

Admittedly, it took a few hours of continual strolling before my muscles kicked into gear, however, when they did, I could really feel the FitFlops at work. Because I’m constantly on the go here in Hong Kong, I always seem to be on the lookout for ways to kill two (sometimes three or four) birds with one stone to save myself time and energy – so much to do and never enough minutes in the day! FitFlops are ideal to wear on those days you’re unable to make it to the gym or have a lot of ground to cover and are in need of a pair of comfy, go-to shoes. They can also add the ‘workout’ factor to your journey to and from the office… Bonus!

In terms of the aesthetic, I’m still on the fence – this is a real case of function vs. fashion. Most FitFlop styles have a built-up sole to give the shoes a platform look. If you’re into that then you’re in luck! If not, you’re more likely to strategically choose when and where you wear them, if you know what I mean…

So, have I been converted into a toning shoe believer?

With regular wear, I think FitFlops would have serious benefits on the toning front. I wore mine for a couple of hours each day over the course of a week and my legs were definitely feeling a bit tighter (and, dare I say, stronger) by the end of it.

It’s worth noting that FitFlop’s style portfolio is pretty extensive too. Whether you prefer slip-ons or jandals (whoops – NZ slang alert – I mean flip flops), there is a wide range of styles and colours to choose from.

FitFlops are available from a number of stores across Hong Kong:

RUSH yoga+fitness+swim, G/F Wyndham Mansion, 32 Wyndham St, Central
Lane Crawford, Podium 3, IFC Mall, Central
Giga Sports (various)
Marathon Sports (various)

For more info or to check out the full range of styles, visit the Fit Flop Website.

Happy toning!