People who intend to take up running should ensure their trainers are well-fitting, one writer has been warned.

Catalina Stogdon of the Telegraph, who is in training for the Great South Run, was told by an unnamed fitness expert that anyone who runs in shoes that are too tight could risk contracting black toe.

This is when trainers are too small and the toes of the runner continually bang into the ends over long distances.

“Your toes go purple, then black and then will eventually fall out. Lovely,” Ms Stogdon explained.

She was advised to opt for running trainers half a size larger than she usually takes in order to give the toes room should the feet expand due to heat.

Last month, the US Military also said a good fit is essential when it comes to running shoes and is more important than choosing footwear based on the shape of the foot.

The New Balance 1520 Multi Sports Shoe could be ideal for all kinds of activities thanks to its Gore Tex and Vibram technology.

Fill all your sporting footwear needs at Pavers with our range of trainers