Question:
I'm looking for some new running shoes. I see shoes grouped in 3 categories: cushioning, stability, and motion control. Q: what's the difference between stability and motion control?

Answer:
A: Go to a good running-specific shoe store in your area and get them to look at your feet and running and recommend an appropriate type of shoe. (Sorry, obligatory meta-answer, but I really do mean it - appropriate shoes can help you avoid a world of injuries).

AA: Motion control means pronation control, preventing you from rolling inwards too much, usually by means of a medial post. The post is a stiff bit on the inside of the shoe that resists the inward roll of pronation.

Stability means a less flexible midsole, so the shoe won't twist around as easily. The two usually go together. All of this stuff is not so subtle attempt on the part of the running shoe companies to have you wear shoes that mask the symptoms and don't
deal with the problem. If you learn to run properly, striking forefoot first, you'll find that the less shoe, the better, and racing flats will be your shoe of choice for both training and racing.

Do a web search on Austin Gontang and read his articles on the subject of running gait, or just post on news:rec.running with a subject of Forefoot Strike - Better? and see what people have to say. I ain't making this stuff up and changing the way I run has made a huge difference in how my body responds to running - I'm faster, I'm lighter on my feet, my lower back no longer bothers me, and I wear nothing but flats.

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