If you’ve got a few more pounds on than you’d like and you’re making a personal commitment to getting back into shape, your ankles are at risk.

You don’t want to start off strong and lose several pounds, only to experience an ankle injury that sidelines you (and all your awesome progress) for several weeks.

So if you’re a little overweight, and you want to protect your ankles until you get back in better shape and feel more confident in your stability, here’s what to look for in footwear to support your goal:

1. Look for “Motion Control”

“Motion control” actually is a popular feature you can easily find with many shoes. It’s designed to counter the effects of overpronation.

Every person pronates when walking or running. That simply means your foot rolls inward as you walk or run. During overpronation, your heel hits the ground first, with your foot following as it rolls inward onto its arch. This frequently happens with people who have “flat feet.”

Overpronation results in greater foot and ankle instability. And “motion control” shoes account for this effect so you reduce your chance of injury.

2. Make Sure You Include Orthotics

More weight on your body means a more powerful impact when you exercise. Custom-designed orthotics you get from a podiatrist fit the contours of your feet specifically.

The problem with the orthotics you get from the store is that they’re designed for masses of people. That means they may not provide your feet the comfort and relief they need.

Custom orthotics are useful for anyone’s foot. However, they’re most useful if you currently experience significant and persistent pain and discomfort as you exercise.

3. A Stable Base

Besides comfort, the most important feature for your shoes to have will be stability. When you exercise vigorously, you won’t be used to controlling your body weight when moving at a higher speed.

Just a small misstep or slightly falling off-balance could lead to a severely sprained ankle.

So, to start, you want shoes that make you feel nearly 100% stable. If you have serious concerns, you can always talk to a podiatrist so you make a wise purchase.

Good for you to want to get back into shape! That only improves your physical and emotional quality of life. It’ll reduce your health care expenses and boost your self-esteem too.

Just make sure to keep these tips in mind so you don’t find yourself derailed by a foot or ankle injury.