Adjusting laces properly is a must. It came from factory like most shoes. It wasn't laced thru each of holes. I fixed laces and found shoes to fit nicely and very snug. I felt ankle support and was able to tighten them like a snowboarding boot but not so tight as to be uncomfortable. I headed off to squat rack.

Doing squats is something I enjoy. Honestly, I enjoy them a bit more now with full support for my feet. These shoes were great first time. NO break in period was necessary. They were comfortable, gave strong ankle support and allowed me to do full squats without any annoying feet issues. I felt like my feet were flat and firmly place on floor with good traction. Moving onto leg press, same thing. NO odd arches, no slippage, and good solid firm foot placement for a good pressing motion.

I only use these shoes on leg days. That is really where I want support. I do not wear them outside for walking around. They are just like gym gloves. Used in that environment as appropriate. The soles of shoe are good for traction in a smooth, flat gym environment. These particular shoes are not made to be worn as a street shoe. That would be a big mistake. You'd wear out tread in days and be out $100 very fast. However, in gym, where they are meant to be, these shoes were incredibly superior.

My overall reaction and opinion of my Otomix workout shoes are very favourable. I would recommend them to anybody looking for some comfortable, high quality, long lasting footwear that is designed specifically for gym.

* Adjust from mere hoping and wishing to 'Expectation'.

Goals and program firmly in hand, your desire to achieve your goals become an expectation. You will drop that 25lbs., you will again fit into that favourite dress, you will do what is necessary to land that job (you see, this technique works for all areas of your life). This positive mindset goes beyond desire and represents your commitment to succeed.

* Visualization

Here's where mind power really shines and it's kind of fun. Paint an image in your mind of what you will look like and perform like upon reaching your goals. Take a 'before' picture to hang on fridge and visualize what 'after' picture will look like. Focus on that vision with intense concentration and do it often, everyday in fact.

Clear goals, expectations and visualization will all help to create and sustain drive to push forward. The war is won one battle at a time and you will win!

* Discipline

Ah, that naughty word, lack of which causes many to falter. As failure is not an option in this scenario, you are going to follow program faithfully. (don't worry, it's not that difficult) You will set aside time each day that is best for you to workout and it will become your own religion. After a couple of weeks you will find that it becomes a habit and that is key! Keep that vision in your mind. Remember that discipline will make difference between success and failure.

* Practice, Practice, Practice!

Ok, this visualization and mind power thing might seem a little far fetched, but ask anyone who practices meditation and you will learn of increased ability to focus and decreased stress in addition to many other benefits. Ask how often they practice meditation and most will respond 'daily'.

Every day you should set aside a short time to quietly put your mind power to work. Do it before your regular workout session if possible. Think of it is a form of meditation, almost self-hypnosis that will help you maintain your focus and reinforce your motivation. Sit quietly, relax your thoughts and body (don't fall asleep), clear your head of days chaos and concentrate on that body that will be yours. Absorb yourself in your visualization firmly believing it will come to pass.

And it will!