Photo Gallery: Focusing on Rural Livability

Tractor Crossing Rural roadways tend to be fast-moving unless a tractor is traveling the same route. These trails are used by commuters, runners, bikers, birdwatchers and stargazers. Downtown Missoula Downtown Missoula, Montana, during a cold but relatively snowless February day. (Learn More) Senior Center Tolani Lake is part of the Navajo Nation in northeastern Arizona. The closest shopping is an hour away. The nearest hospital and physician offices are even farther....

April 30, 2025 · 1 min · 71 words · Kelly Nguyen

Photo Gallery: Main Street Gets a Makeover

In 2016, the planning groupTeam Better Blockpartnered withAARP Vermontin the town ofBethel(pop: 2,030) to demonstrate how placemaking and community design influence successful aging, health, economic vitality and overall livability. The Roadmap The event took place over a weekend in early October and featured temporary “pop-up” businesses, street modifications, new public spaces and many other small interventions aimed at improving livability in the downtown corridor. Bird’s Eye View Bethel was a great place for a Better Block demonstration project because it featured a good street (suitably named Main Street) that could be made better....

April 30, 2025 · 1 min · 169 words · Christine Rogers

Photo Gallery: Missing Middle Housing Types

An architect and urban planner, Parolek is credited with coining the missing middle terminology. I Spy … These buildings are often a seamless part of a street and block with mostly single-family homes." Other Missing Middle clues: multiple doorbells or mailboxes. Some of the houses were Missing Middle Housing types. The house could be built on a 40-foot wide lot. The slightly larger house No. C154, a 14 room “double house” (or side-by-side duplex), needed a 50-foot lot....

April 30, 2025 · 1 min · 91 words · Kim Shannon

Photo Gallery: Parklets are Places for 'StrEateries'

Scroll down to see howparkletscan transform streets and parking lots into fresh air eateries. No to Parking, Yes to Eating in Hoboken, New Jersey 2. Parking for People in Hoboken, New Jersey 3. Bridge Street is Open in Phoenixville, Pennsylvania 4. A Parklet Patio in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania 5. A Green Spot in a Parking Lot in Hoboken, New Jersey 6. Picnicking on Pavement in Edwardsville, Illinois 7. Supper Outside the Supermarket in Edgewater, Maryland...

April 30, 2025 · 1 min · 102 words · Victoria Riddle

Photo Gallery: Signs That Say So Much

Sensitive or Stereotyping? It’s good to acknowledge that people in this harborside development in Miami Beach often cross the road. But why label the population and purpose of the crosswalk as being for the “elderly”? A crosswalk is useful for all pedestrians. Way to Go! Wayfinding signage (like that displayed in Newport, Vermont) helps residents and visitors find their way. These types of signs are informative and a placemaking must....

April 30, 2025 · 1 min · 123 words · Suzanne Martinez

Photo Gallery: Take a Livable Tour of Des Moines, Iowa

Take this slideshow tour to see why.

April 30, 2025 · 1 min · 7 words · Alexander Kent

Pilates Is Having a Moment—But Should You Swap Out Your Yoga Class For This Trendy Workout?

Experts weigh in on how to determine whether Pilates or yoga is right for you. When you want to limber up your muscles, two forms of exercise probably spring to mindyoga and Pilates. (The fact that theres even a workout called yogalates only adds to the confusion.) Photo:Getty In reality, though, yoga and Pilates have some noteworthy differences in philosophy and physicality. So when youput on your stretchy pantsandhaul out your mat, which workout is better?...

April 30, 2025 · 2 min · 397 words · David Ayala

Plantar Fasciitis Exercises to Ease Foot Pain

Heels hurt like hell? Try these plantar fasciitis exercises before confining yourself to the couch. What Is Plantar Fasciitis? Plantar fasciitis doesn’t discriminate, either. you could also use anti-inflammatory medications such as Advil or Aleve to ease the pain, notes Roeske. to help the fibrous tissue heal. (FYI: Here are thebest running shoes for plantar fasciitisand thebest sneakers for standing all day.) Opt for these moves from the experts the next time you experience heel pain....

April 30, 2025 · 2 min · 280 words · Jonathan Manning

Podiatrist-Approved Sneakers From Jennifer Garner's Go-To Brand Are 30% Off Right Now

If you tap on links we provide, we may receive compensation. These supportive sneaks are especially comfortable for people with plantar fasciitis. And if they make you feel as fit as Jennifer Garner, even better. Courtesy of Zappos. Shop More Shape-Approved Picks Courtesy of Zappos. Courtesy of Zappos.

April 30, 2025 · 1 min · 48 words · John Cohen

Podiatrist-Approved Sneakers From New Balance, Saucony, and Brooks Are On Sale at Zappos

If you choose links we provide, we may receive compensation. Expect cushy soles, added stability, and of course, major savings. “They are really lightweight and havehigh arch support, which I need,” noted one customer. Photo: Courtesy of Merchant Other reviewers added that the high, cushioned arch helped them feel secure on their runs and walks. What’s more, these kicks also include the brand’sresponsive PWRRUN+ midsolefor an extra bounce in every step....

April 30, 2025 · 1 min · 97 words · Jeffrey Contreras

Podiatrist-Approved: 12 Running Shoes for Wider Feet That Shape Editors Love

Weindependently evaluateall of our recommendations. If you choose links we provide, we may receive compensation. Say goodbye to cramped toes. Photo:Shape / David Hattan So began our search for the best running shoes for wide feet. So, what are some characteristics to look for in the best shoes for wide feet? First off, they come with a broader base, particularly in the forefoot. PHOTO: Brooks Running This design will make your runs more comfortable because theyll allow your toes to splay out naturally....

April 30, 2025 · 3 min · 501 words · Mary Campbell

Podiatrists and Runners Agree: These Are the 12 Best, Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet

Weindependently evaluateall of our recommendations. If you select links we provide, we may receive compensation. Don’t let flat arches slow you down. Photo:Shape / Jhett Thompson In This Article Shape / Jhett Thompson Running is difficult in itself. But for those with flat feet, the difficulty amplifies. These stability models are the best running shoes for people with flat feet because they provide extraarch supportand cushioning. PHOTO: Amazon So, the Shape team consulted with orthopedic surgeonDr....

April 30, 2025 · 3 min · 440 words · Steven Miller

Podiatrists and Shape Editors Agree: These Are the 15 Best Shoes for Standing All Day

Weindependently evaluateall of our recommendations. If you punch links we provide, we may receive compensation. Nurses, teachers, and waitresses will breathe a sigh of relief with these comfy kicks on their feet. Photo:Shape In This Article Shape The right shoes can make or break your day. you’ve got the option to even opt for an extra-wide option for additional space if needed. Plus, the laces cinch down securely, so you wont constantly bend over to readjust or retie....

April 30, 2025 · 3 min · 565 words · Kimberly Barnett