Although running for fitness does great things for your body, you probably hate what it does to your feet. While most runners would not hesitate to show off her legs in a short skirt, she may be reluctant to put on a pair of strappy sandals. Would you like to make your feet look as good as the rest of your body? If so, read on!

Toe the Line

You can always tell a runner by her toenails. They tend to be thick, yellow or black. Keep your toenails cut short. If you are prone to ingrown toenails, they should be cut round instead of short. Women who do a good deal of downhill running are particularly susceptible to black toenails. If you are not squeamish, you can fix a black toenail by bathing your feet in a warm water and betadine solution. Then, insert a sterilized needle under your toenail. After the infection "bursts" re-soak your foot in the antiseptic solution. Your other option is to have this procedure done at the doctor`s office.

Preventing Calluses and Blisters

The hardening of the skin around a runner`s feet is actually a protective mechanism. You can prevent the skin from becoming too tough by using any of the foot graters and pumice stones on the market. This will also prevent calluses. Blisters can be annoying and painful. Although there are various blister remedies, a bit of prevention is the best cure. Here are some ways to prevent blisters:

·    Since dry skin is more prone to friction, use a moisturizer on your feet.  

·    Choose blister-free synthetic socks that will wick moisture away from the skin. Although cotton is lighter, but it retains moisture. Consider getting a few pairs of socks with reinforced heels and toes.

·    Coating your feet with Vaseline or another lubricant before you run creates a protective shield between your skin and sock.

·    Get the rocks out! You are in a race and you feel some sort of pebble in your shoe. You don`t want to stop to take it out, because you don`t want to lose race time. Consider this: If the friction from the rock causes a blister, you are going to be pretty uncomfortable for your next few weeks of training.

Keep Feet Smelling Sweet

There is something almost paradoxical about a beautiful female runner with not-so-beautiful smelling feet. Fortunately, there are a number of remedies to prevent runner`s foot odor. Consider daily feet soaks with any of the peppermint-based cleansing products. Some runners even like to put talcum powder or baking soda in their shoes before putting on their socks. Last but least, although it should go without saying, be sure to change your socks on a daily basis.

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