I DO NOT RUN.

Power walk, yes. Run, no. Not even jog. Don't like it, never had, never will. Which is why concepts like MBT's (Masai Barefoot Technology) and Muscle Trainers appeal to me. And Muscle Trainers in particular because running in them would be a very bad thing. Really. So here's my first impression...

Muscle Trainers have weights in their soles...

between 2.2 lbs. and 3.0 lbs. to be exact. Mine have 2.6 lbs.--which at first seems a bit lame. Who can't lift that, right? I had to chuckle when I read the instructions (instructions for sneakers? yes). Driving in Muscle Trainers is a no-no. The manufacturer, Miyata, also recommends that you do not run, climb stairs or use a stairmaster, or take any meds that might make you drowsy. Just walk. In a straight line. And try not to do hills.

My kind of shoe. Ok, but here's the thing: I really do want to get in shape and tighten up some areas. And while I don't have any objective to lose weight, the fact that Muscle Trainers claim to ramp up the calorie burn is an intriguing bonus. In fact, Miyata claims that you can burn 300 calories in just 30 minutes by walking in these babies.

Can I just say I felt like an idiot?

Putting Muscle Trainers on, standing up, and walking in them is not for the self-conscious. I now know why you're told to lay off the gas pedal while you have these on. Ditto running. Ditto stairs. They're a bit cumbersome at first and will only magnify any clumsiness.

It took a couple of minutes to get used to them, and as I trekked out on my walk, I soon became all too aware of my calf muscles. The instructions also said that while wearing Muscle Trainers, whatever heart rate you'd normally be at after 20 minutes of exercise, you'll be at after only 5. Note: bear this in mind and talk it over with your doctor before embarking on a Muscle Trainer exercise plan.

But I feel a lot tighter

Because I'm not one for instructions (WHY can't you go up stairs? WHY??), I also went up stairs and--drumroll--ran. Neither of which I'd recommend. It's easier to trip than you'd think. I also did some reverse leg curls. Even though it's only a bit of weight there, you do feel it--and those glutes are a heck of a lot tighter. My calf muscles feel strengthened and toned as well.

WiWi: Was it Worth it? Absolutely. Muscle Trainers have tightened up my legs and butt and even my abdomen. The one challenge with them has been myself, really--my own motivation (or lack thereof). I wish you could wear them all day while doing errands--so you'd tighten up more incidentally vs. intentionally.