It’s hard not to be inspired by the Olympic athletes now competing in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

If you’re thinking of starting a new routine, remember that proper-fitting sport shoes can enhance performance as much as they prevent injuries.

Inspired by Olympic athletes? Choose the right shoes before getting started

When you purchase athletic shoes from a specialty store, the staff should be able to help you find the best fit for your sport.

Follow these seven tips when buying a new pair of shoes:

• Try on athletic shoes at the end of the day. Your feet swell during the day, so trying on at the end of the day will mean your feet are at their largest. You’ll get the best fit this way.
• Wear the same type of sock that you will wear for that sport.
• When the shoe is on your foot, you should be able to freely wiggle all of your toes.
• Your shoes should be comfortable as soon as you try them on. There is no break-in period.
• Walk or run a few steps in your shoes. Make sure they allow you to comfortably do what you do when you exercise.
• Always re-lace the shoes you are trying on. You should begin at the farthest eyelets and apply even pressure as you create a crisscross lacing pattern to the top of the shoe.
• There should be a firm grip of the shoe to your heel. Your heel should not slip as you walk or run.

For detailed tips on buying athletic shoes for specific sports, visit the page How to Select the Right Athletic Shoes at FootCareMD.org, the patient education site of the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS).