As I mentioned in a recent post, I’ve been using some of the extra time during taper to read. My reading has consisted mostly of running related books, particularly those that might help motivate me for my upcoming marathon. Conveniently, the long planned for The Ultimate Runner: Stories and Advice to Keep You Moving
The Ultimate Runner is a compilation of short stories from runners, as well as some great information from the experts – coaches, sports nutritionists, and exercise physiologists. Many of the stories come from bloggers who are active at the Runners’ Lounge (go here to learn more about the contributors). Categories include “Why we run: Physical Transformation”, “Memorable Races”, and “Running for a Cause”, as well as the useful “Must Know Info” from the experts.
I carried this book around with me for a couple of days, reading short stories while my kids played at the playground, attended t-ball class, and practiced soccer. I loved that the stories were short and I could finish them quickly while there was a break in the real life action in front of me. The only downside to this was that I often found myself tearing up in public (yes, I’m a total sap.) The stories reminded me, not only that running is awesome and every day I can run is a good day, but also that the running community is awesome and supportive.
I have to admit I glossed over the experts a bit. I’ve read a lot and am constantly researching, so I wasn’t really looking for that kind of information. However, the information was presented in a concise, easy to read method. I did find “What Every Woman Needs to Know About Running” and “Running for a Lifetime” interesting and useful. As I approach master’s status (ack!), I’ll need all the tips I can find to keep running healthy and strong.
All in all, I found this book to be an enjoyable read. It’d make a great gift for a new or returning runner or someone who just needs a little reminder of why they run. Copies are available at Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and Borders.
Disclaimer: I was given the book to review. The opinions are my own.
Yeah, I was totally crying on the plane the other morning reading this. I really hope everyone around me was sleeping!
nice review. i've got ~3 books waiting for me on my nightstand, but good to have another to add to my list…or possible gift. thx.
i would like to read it but i will most likely gloss of the expert part too. my book shelf is filled with books waiting to be read. last year i read 1 book the entire year. this year i'm reading 1 book a month and am on book #6 for the year!
I think I may need to get this. I love runners' stories that make me tear up! Thanks for the handy links.
Sounds like a great read for some pre-race motivation!
Sounds wonderful. Not really a "reader" but I may need to change my ways for this one! 😉
I need to get this! Thanks for the review (oh and you beat Viper again with this!)
Great Review.
Great review! I'll have to check it out!
Thanks for this review! I'm still working on Hal Higdon's Marathon because it's also a book I'm able to read in short sections (while nannying…)This is probably something I'll look into after I finish.And yeah, I've teared up over running stuff before. It's cool. Dane Cook would be proud 😉