20 Best Books About Running (2023 Update)

This insightful training strategy writing is full of running advice for novices and recreational athletes. here to help in your planning and preparation is a guide through your half marathon journey – whether that's to check it off your bucket list or to get fit. ace the half is an engaging book by running coach beverly asante puschmann, who is a certified distance-running coach, a certified nutrition coach, and who is a half marathon runner herself. she's sprinkled in relatable stories about her own life to keep you laughing and entertained while she provides you with all the information you'll need. this is running writing for beginners and consistent athletes. – not only does this book motivate you to keep running, but there are also checklists, running tips about preparation, advice about choosing the best equipment and tools to use, and food intake (aka fueling) suggestions. beverly even covers recovery after the fact, so you can use this book to prepare for multiple half marathons. – in ace the half, you'll learn about: beverly's life as a runner – finding your training plan – mindset methods to keep you motivated – how to fuel and hydrate for training, racing, and recovery – how to make your final preparations for the all-important race day – this running book for novice half marathoners is full of tips about running challenges, running advice about nutrition, and so much more! when will you run your first or next half marathon?

***endorsed by amby burfoot, boston marathon champion and author: "my advice? get to the starting line of "in my shoes" and start turning the pages." -amby burfoot***being the size of a linebacker and not having any major life altering events to provide a cliché "comeback story," josh wackler is the most unlikely person to write a book about life and running. however, everyone, runners and non-runners alike, will smile, laugh and cry at this unlikely runner and author's inspirational life lessons, all of which parallel lessons observed while committing the simple act of running. throughout every chapter, each of which contains a lesson in life and running, josh shares heart breaking stories of using running to help him through loss, inspirational thoughts regarding the boston marathon bombing, humorous stories about battling angry geese while running, and everything in between. whether you're a seasoned marathoner or someone who prefers to admire marathoners from home, you will truly enjoy josh's unique perspective on all things running…and all things life.

Although running is becoming one of the most popular sports, learning to run properly can take time, energy and consistency. you need to do it regularly to become good at it and until you have achieved a certain level of competence, it is unlikely that you will enjoy it very much, or for very long. for many runners physical and mental barriers can stop progress. this book’s ultimate aim is to help you enjoy to run – to enjoy the feeling of movement, to overcome inertia, to renew yourself and to boost energy as a result. master the art of running is based on the proven principles of the alexander technique that encourage good body use and greater awareness of the way your body functions and moves. the technique teaches you how to release tension from your back and neck and how to run without suffering from injuries. the authors’ perspective on the sport takes them into areas rarely touched on in conventional manuals. instead of placing importance on speed, targets and goals it emphasises the importance of the way you run so you can transform your training and performance.

“i don't have time to run.” “the run will hurt or make me tired.” “i don't have my running shoes with me.” “i’ve got too much work to do.” if you're always looking for any excuse to not go running, this book is for you! whether you’re an athlete or just want to stay fit and exercise, you need to train your mind just as much as you train your body! it’s easy to find excuses and stay at home, but with jeff galloway’s mental training strategies you will find yourself staying motivated and setting and reaching new goals in no time. jeff will help you break down your challenges into smaller steps so your next goal seems more achievable. you will learn to overcome each challenge and problem and reduce stress. you will be able to go out for your run even on tough days, after an injury or illness, or when your running buddy isn’t around. in the end, you will break through barriers and stay in control and at the top. in this book, you will find many useful tips on how to deal with stress. jeff describes typical everyday situations and how to go out and run even if your brain is making up excuses; he explains drills to help you rehearse a good response to those excuses so that over time you will change your habits; he presents training tools that will lower your stress and help you learn to set realistic goals. in addition, jeff posits that in order to stay motivated, it is important to have good running technique. a section on better technique will help you run better and achieve your next goal. finally, jeff shows how using a journal can benefit your exercise regime and assist you in keeping track of your progress and the highs and lows of your training schedules. mental training for runners will put you on the path to a positive mental environment and will turn your mind, body, and spirit into a powerful team and tool. after reading and learning from this book, there will only ever be one answer to any challenge: “i can do it!”

Jeff galloways injury-free marathon training program has helped hundreds of thousands of runners of all abilities. his training schedules have inspired the second wave of marathoners who follow the galloway run-walk-run, low mileage, three-day suggestions to an over 98% success rate. runners will explore the run-walk-run method the principles of and mental and physical benefits behind the method. you will learn jeffs magic mile, how to set up a running strategy, mental training, proper form and technique, drills, transitions, problem solving, running faster, race rehearsals, and more. jeffs innovative ideas have opened up the possibility of running and completing a marathon to almost everyone.

Runners suffer one of the highest injury rates in recreational athletics. this book takes the novice and elite level runner alike through a step-by-step process of avoiding and managing injury from starting line to finish line. – covering running injuries around the body from foot to hip, the book focuses on three key aspects: staying on track and injury-free; early detection; and how to rehabilitate from an injury. with the knowledge that prevention is better than cure, the book focuses on helping runners to understand their body, identify weakness, and develop a natural defense against injury. each of these stages includes key training sessions to add into the reader’s existing program, relevant for all running abilities. – this accessible manual provides the reader with the ultimate “pain to personal best (pb) guide.” for every common running injury, there is a comprehensive self-help guide, combined with advice on how to choose the best health care practitioner for their injury, as well as what to expect during treatment and prognosis for recovery. in each section there is also a case study of a runner or athlete on their journey through the injury, providing an insight into the psychological rollercoaster runners experience on their journey from treatment to track. – voted one of the top 12 books on running by the 2017 running awards.

Breakthrough women's running is written just for you–a woman runner who has big goals and needs a plan to achieve them. in her trademark fun and upbeat style, professional runner and coach neely spence gracey will set you up for success with an inside look at her own story in the sport–paired with the science, experience, strategies, and insights that have worked for her and countless other female runners who set challenging goals and achieved them. told with engaging storytelling and packed with colorful images and practical recommendations to improve your running, breakthrough women's running offers 5k, 10k, half-marathon, marathon, and run-walk training plans to suit your current distance or pacing goals. with the strength and mobility workouts included in the plans, you don't have to wonder where and how to fit in these important (but often overlooked) components of a successful running training program. learn how to breathe in rhythm and how to focus with mantras and mindfulness exercises. get specific guidance on how to best manage unique challenges that women confront such as hormone fluctuations; training through the menstrual cycle, while pregnant, or after childbirth; and training while also raising a family. know how to train to prevent injury as well as how to return to running should an injury occur. and fuel your training with five simple recipes that are nutrient dense and simple to prepare. you'll hear from well-known, successful women runners such as sara hall and nell rojas on how even elite runners experience highs and lows in their training as well as how they themselves overcame obstacles to reach their goals. at the ends of chapters, you'll find breakthrough goals–a section of small, tangible actions that you can apply in your own training to overcome specific obstacles. ce exam available! for certified professionals, a companion continuing education exam can be completed after reading this book. the breakthrough women's running online ce exam may be purchased separately or as part of the breakthrough women's running with ce exam package that includes both the book and the exam.

Today, millions of women and girls around the world enjoy running and entering races. it wasn’t always so:* in 1961, when julia chase edged to the start of a connecticut 5-miler, officials tried to push her off the road. * at the 1966 boston marathon, roberta gibb hid behind a forsythia bush, worried that police might arrest her. * the next year at boston, kathrine switzer was assaulted mid-race by a furious race organizer. * in the mid-60s, indianapolis high schooler cheryl bridges was told not to run anywhere near the boys’ track team because she might “distract” them. * when charlotte lettis signed up for the university of massachusetts cross-country team in the fall of 1971, she was told to use the men’s locker room. * a few years later in coastal maine, young joan benoit would stop her workouts to pretend she was picking roadside flowers, embarrassed that her neighbors might spot her running.first ladies of running tells the inspiring stories of these and other fiercely independent runners who refused to give up despite the cultural and sports barriers they faced. legends such as doris brown, francie larrieu, mary decker, jackie hansen, miki gorman, and grete waitz are chronicled by runner’s world editor amby burfoot. burfoot even runs the 1994 marine corps marathon with oprah winfrey, whose successful finish opened the floodgates for other women runners. first ladies of running is a beautiful and long-overdue tribute to the pioneers of women’s running, and a gift of empowerment for female runners everywhere.

A comprehensive guide exclusively for women who experience the pure joy of running—or want to.more women than ever are discovering the unique benefits of running — for stress relief, weight management, endurance, and self-esteem. it's the simplest, fastest, most accessible way to fitness and good health known to woman. you don't need a partner, equipment, or even much time. now, claire kowalchik, former managing editor of runner's world magazine, answers every question about the overwhelmingly popular activity that builds endurance, melts fat, and even prevents illness. in this total running book for women, you'll learn: -how to get started and stay motivated -what to eat for optimal nutrition -how to run during pregnancy and after menopause -why running is the most effective form of exercise -how to prevent and treat injury -what to wear — from sports bras to running shoes -how to prepare for everything from a 5k to a marathon authoritative and friendly, the complete book of running for women is a sourcebook for both beginners and long-time runners. along with wisdom drawn from the author's personal experience, you'll find advice from the experts: coaches, exercise physiologists, nutritionists, doctors, and other women runners. including question-and-answer sections and a complete list of resources, the complete book of running for women tells you everything you need to know to be off and running toward better health and richer living.

In the little red book of running,renowned running writer writer scott douglas delivers the advice that he’s compiled from interacting with some of the world’s most distinguished coaches and laureled runners. with 250 tips covering every aspect of running, this pocket-sized book of wisdom is the next best thing to having a personal running coach. within these pages you’ll find: – advice on how to healthily increase your weekly mileage – expert guidance on how to boost your overall speed – recommendations for choosing the best sneaker for your foot – suggestions for staying motivated through injury – and 246 more tips for becoming a better runner! broken down into comprehensive topics that cover all aspects of running—from determining your weekly mileage to running a personal best—the little red book of running is sure to quickly become a runner’s new best friend.

The inspiring, hilarious memoir of a “bridget jones-like writer” (the washington post) who transforms her life by learning to run, with stories of miserable defeat, complete victory, and learning to choose the right shoes.when alexandra heminsley decided to take up running, she had hopes for a blissful runner’s high and immediate physical transformation. after eating three slices of toast with honey and spending ninety minutes creating the perfect playlist, she hit the streets—and failed spectacularly. running like a girl tells the story of getting beyond the brutal part, how alexandra makes running a part of her life, and reaps the rewards: not just the obvious things, like weight loss, health, and glowing skin; but self-confidence and immeasurable daily pleasure, along with a new closeness to her father—a marathon runner—and her brother, with whom she ultimately runs her first marathon. but before her first marathon, she has to figure out the logistics of running: the intimidating questions from a young and arrogant sales assistant when she goes to buy her first running shoes, where to get decent bras for the larger bust, how not to freeze or get sunstroke, and what (and when) to eat before a run. she’s figured out what’s important (pockets) and what isn’t (appearance), and more. for any woman who has ever run, wanted to run, tried to run, or failed to run (even if just around the block), heminsley’s funny, warm, and motivational personal journey from nonathlete extraordinaire to someone who has completed five marathons is inspiring, entertaining, practical, and fun.

These 101 real-life stories will motivate and inspire you to get out there and walk or run! everyone needs a boost to power through those first steps in the morning or those last steps of a grueling race. and there’s no better motivation than hearing from people who have changed their lives through running or walking. the benefits to your physical and mental health from hitting the road or the trail are boundless. in these pages you’ll meet men and women who have run or walked off hundreds of pounds, who’ve conquered injuries, depression, or anxiety, who’ve made friends, repaired relationships, switched careers—all through the miracle of getting outside and moving their bodies. as ultramarathoner dean karnazes says, “getting out there creates camaraderie, confidence… and calm.” this new collection is also filled with stories from people who have not only done “good” for themselves, but have also raised money for good causes through everything from 5k races to 100-mile ultramarathons. prepare to be inspired—to do some good for yourself and for others!

Have you ever wondered if it is truly possible to run pain and injury free? do you yearn for the day that you will be able to enjoy the many benefits that running brings by running pain and injury free? sadly, among many runners is an inherent yet often unspoken belief that it isn't possible to run pain and injury free. many runners believe that if you run far enough and for long enough, injury will be the inevitable result. a physio's 5 step guide to enjoying injury-free and faster running readers will discover how to both prevent and overcome running injuries, and go on to enjoy new levels of exercise pain and injury free, and ultimately faster running. written by a highly successful physiotherapist and an accomplished triathlete and runner, this book offers runners of all levels hope – hope that it is indeed possible to run pain and injury free. this book is written for any runner who: – is seeking to proactively prevent injuries – is currently injured and looking to return to running – has been previously injured and never made a return to running – is not concerned about injury prevention or rehabilitation but just wants to get faster. brad beer is a gold coast based physiotherapist. in 2006 brad founded his first practice now known as pogo physio. recognised as a leading authority on running injury prevention and rehabilitation, brad – himself an avid runner – is passionate about seeing people unlock their true physical potential and discover the many joys and benefits of running. "it never ceases to amaze me how quickly i'm on the road to recovery or just generally tuned up every time i see brad. i often say 'he is a genius!'" – mat rogers, dual australian rugby representative "brad's unique 5 step approach is a proven method for beating running injuries. this book will assist you to finally run pain and injury free." – hayley bateup, ironwoman champion "utilising the exercises contained within this book i was able to go from not being able to walk downstairs without severe knee pain to being back in full training in only 4 weeks." – luke mcdonald "as a professional athlete the ability to run pain and injury free has been critical to my performance. at last brad has distilled the same principles he has used to help me run pain free over my career into a resource available to runners of all levels." – shannon eckstein, ironman champion

The revised edition of the bestselling chirunning, a groundbreaking program from ultra-marathoner and nationally-known coach danny dreyer, that teaches you how to run faster and farther with less effort, and to prevent and heal injuries for runners of any age or fitness level.in chirunning, danny and katherine dreyer, well-known walking and running coaches, provide powerful insight that transforms running from a high-injury sport to a body-friendly, injury-free fitness phenomenon. chirunning employs the deep power reserves in the core muscles, an approach found in disciplines such as yoga, pilates, and t’ai chi. chirunning enables you to develop a personalized exercise program by blending running with the powerful mind-body principles of t’ai chi: -get aligned: develop great posture and reduce your potential for injury while running, and make knee pain and shin splints a thing of the past. -engage your core: shift the workload from your leg muscles to your core muscles, for efficiency and speed. -add relaxation to your running: learn to focus your mind and relax your body to increase speed and distance. -make it a mindful practice: maintain high performance and make running a mindful, enjoyable life-long practice. it’s easy to learn. transform your running with the ten-step chirunning training program.

“completely satisfying, as well-paced and exhilarating as a good run.”—the boston globe whether running is your recreation or your religion, adharanand finn’s incredible journey to the elite training camps of kenya will captivate and inspire you, as he ventures to uncover the secrets of the fastest people on earth. finn’s mesmerizing quest combines a fresh look at barefoot running, practical advice on the sport, and the fulfillment of a lifelong dream: to run with his heroes. uprooting his family of five, finn traveled to a small, chaotic town in the rift valley province of kenya—a mecca for long-distance runners, thanks to its high altitude, endless paths, and some of the top training schools in the world. there finn would run side by side with olympic champions, young hopefuls, and barefoot schoolchildren, and meet a cast of unforgettable characters. amid the daily challenges of training and of raising a family abroad, finn would learn invaluable lessons about running—and about life. with a new afterword by the author “not everyone gets to heaven in their lifetime. adharanand finn tried to run there, and succeeded.

Humans have been running for millennia. among the many unique human attributes is our ability to run long distance. and yet running hurts. go for a run after work today and you'll probably wake up tomorrow with stiff limbs and a firm resolution to spend more evenings on the couch watching tv. running is a high-impact exercise: every stride sends shudders of force up anatomically complicated ankles and through delicate knees, goading your joints and muscles into injury. and yet millions train each year for marathons and triathalons the world over. running science explains the science behind running why it hurts, how one can run faster, how physics of surfaces and the soles of shoes all contribute to performance. this is a guide for anyone interested in running from those in armchairs who just want to read about the science of sport, to others who are looking for ways to better their next marathon.

The ultimate celebration of ultra-running, this is an inspiration for anyone who has ever dreamed of running beyond on the world's most beautiful and testing races. exclusive interviews with elite runners and stunning, and unique photography captures the world's most iconic ultra races. with maps and profiles for each race, and filled with striking and evocative images capturing the action and drama of the races – and the men and women who run them – running beyond is a beautiful homage to the sport of ultra. whether the adventure occurs on the twisting trails of the world's mountain peaks, in the intense heat of desert sands or the gritty demands of rocky paths, running far and running hard is all about the journey. the sport of ultra pushes the legs, heart and lungs through some of the world's most incredible locations, testing both body and mind to the limit. ian corless has travelled across the globe to document the stunning beauty and incredible routes of some of the world's most iconic ultra trails. from a hard, technical route through the grand canyon to the snow-capped peaks of italy's dolomites, the physicality and intensity of the sport are brought to life through this stunning collection of photographs. exclusive interviews with the legends of the sport – including kilian jornet, emelie forsberg and anton krupicka – describe the technical challenges and emotional experiences of running to these extreme heights and endurance distances.

Hate being stuck on a treadmill? want to start running outside in the fresh air, but don't know where to begin or how you'll find the time? or, perhaps you're already a runner, but injury-or boredom-keeps stopping you in your tracks.if any of these scenarios sound familiar, then this book is for you. written for real women with jobs, families, social lives, and other obligations, this beautiful book provides the motivation and information you need to get out there and get running: lively anecdotes, guides to gadgets, inspirational pep talks, and the tools to create a running schedule to fit your life. no punishing weekly training schedules, grueling diets, or race pace charts, here. backed by scientific research, expert advice, and the experiences of female runners of all ages and levels of ability, run for life offers information on eating and drinking for energy, the truth about stretching, ways to avoid injury, and much more. you will run for health, fun, fitness, weight loss, energy, sanity, happiness, adventure, balance, confidence, and most importantly, for yourself-through every stage of your life.whether you are just starting out or you're already hooked, this indispensable book will provide you with what you need to become the runner you want to be-and still allow you to have a life.

The find your feet trail running guidebook provides athletes of any ability a safe pathway of preparation to their chosen adventures. hanny allston's personal coaching methodologies focus on sustainable, long-term health, training and performance successes. – the trail running guidebook contains a snapshot of key lessons that hanny has learnt on her journey to becoming a world champion and elite trail running record holder. to help you find your feet in the sport of trail running she shares her theories on training & racing strategies, nutrition & hydration, equipment, how to avoid the common injuries, running technique, and psychology. – unlike growth models where training builds and builds with little reprieve, hanny's unique model – wave training – allows athletes greater potential for recovery, self-reflection, and spontaneous playfulness. – hanny has experienced the elation of success but also the pitfalls of striving too far for performance. it is from this honest place that she writes this book for you. – hanny allston is a world champion, elite australian trail runner, and previous marathon and distance track athlete. she still holds numerous race records, from the marathon to ultramarathons. hanny has a depth of academic and employment experiences working with athletes, both elite and recreational. she is also an award-winning businesswoman, who knows what it is like to live in the modern world and to juggle responsibilities. hanny is the person to guide you on your own journey. she wants to help you to be, play and perform wilder – to help you find your feet. "i have always known that i must share the knowledge i was fortunate to learn along my athletic journey. i hope that by writing this book i can pass forward the baton and help you to achieve your wildest dreams."

The find your feet trail running guidebook provides athletes of any ability a safe pathway of preparation to their chosen adventures. hanny allston's personal coaching methodologies focus on sustainable, long-term health, training and performance successes. – the trail running guidebook contains a snapshot of key lessons that hanny has learnt on her journey to becoming a world champion and elite trail running record holder. to help you find your feet in the sport of trail running she shares her theories on training & racing strategies, nutrition & hydration, equipment, how to avoid the common injuries, running technique, and psychology. – unlike growth models where training builds and builds with little reprieve, hanny's unique model – wave training – allows athletes greater potential for recovery, self-reflection, and spontaneous playfulness. – hanny has experienced the elation of success but also the pitfalls of striving too far for performance. it is from this honest place that she writes this book for you. – hanny allston is a world champion, elite australian trail runner, and previous marathon and distance track athlete. she still holds numerous race records, from the marathon to ultramarathons. hanny has a depth of academic and employment experiences working with athletes, both elite and recreational. she is also an award-winning businesswoman, who knows what it is like to live in the modern world and to juggle responsibilities. hanny is the person to guide you on your own journey. she wants to help you to be, play and perform wilder – to help you find your feet. "i have always known that i must share the knowledge i was fortunate to learn along my athletic journey. i hope that by writing this book i can pass forward the baton and help you to achieve your wildest dreams."