Whether you’re an experienced Ultra runner or someone transitioning from Couch to 5k, seeking a little boost, delving into stories of authors who have transformed from zero fitness to world-class marathon runners is sure to ignite your motivation. Prepare to lace up your running shoes as these tales encompass everything from the mechanics of running to extraordinary accounts from the road.
Gaining knowledge empowers us, and immersing yourself in these books will rejuvenate and inspire you with a newfound passion for running.
What are your ultimate goals in running, sports, or life? How do you harness your passion to achieve them? International ultrarunner and coach Steve Till takes you through his own experiences and those of athletes at all levels, exploring goal-setting, motivation, resilience, and achievement. Whether you’re a runner or want to reach your potential in any area of life, this book provides valuable lessons and inspiration. It’s about sparking ideas and offering inspiration for your journey. Let Steve Till help you identify your mountaintop and achieve your goals.
Jo Pavey captivated the world at the Rio 2016 Olympics, competing in her fifth Games and showcasing her remarkable tenacity. In This Mum Runs, she shares her inspiring journey from being a forty-year-old, postpartum mother of two to clinching her first gold medal in the 10,000m at the European Championships. Dubbed ‘Supermum’ by the media, Jo’s story captures the essence of juggling motherhood and professional athleticism. From sleepless nights to school-run chaos, Jo embodies the challenges and triumphs of many working mothers. This heartwarming memoir tells the relatable story of a mother who runs and a runner who mothers, filled with insights and lessons from her unique path to success.
For all running enthusiasts out there, Lonely Planet Epic Runs of the World is the perfect guide to take you on an inspiring journey around the world. This book is not just any ordinary running guide, it is a collection of the world’s most thrilling running routes and trails, providing you with insights into each destination and what makes it so unique. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned runner, this book caters to everyone, taking you on a journey to explore hidden running treasures. With compelling recommendations for each destination, this book is not just a guide, it serves as an inspiration to keep running and exploring the world.
Born to Run by Christopher McDougall is a captivating book that delves into the world of ultra-running and the hidden tribe of Mexico, the Tarahumara. McDougall takes readers on a journey as he uncovers the secrets of the Tarahumara’s running prowess and delves into the science behind humans’ innate ability to run. Along the way, he introduces readers to a cast of unforgettable characters, including ultra-runners who push their bodies to the limit and eccentric personalities who have dedicated their lives to running. The book culminates in a thrilling race between some of the world’s best ultra-runners and the Tarahumara, making for a truly exhilarating read. Born to Run is the perfect read for anyone looking to be inspired by the power of the human body and endurance.
Born to Run 2: The Ultimate Training Guide is a highly informative book that delves into the world of running and how to train effectively for it. This book is a must-read for any avid runner who wants to take their training to the next level. The content of the book is well-researched, and the author shares practical tips and advice that runners can use to improve their performance and reduce the risk of injury. The book covers everything from proper running form to nutrition and injury prevention, and it is written in a way that is easy to understand and apply. Overall, Born to Run 2 is a fantastic resource for runners who want to up their game and achieve their goals.
Are you a runner looking to take your performance to the next level? If so, you may want to check out the book 80/20 Running: Run Stronger and Race Faster By Training Slower. The book focuses on a unique concept known as the 80/20 rule, which encourages runners to slow down and embrace a more gentle approach to training. By doing so, runners can reduce their risk of injury, increase their endurance, and ultimately improve their overall racing performance.
Running with the Kenyans provides readers with a fascinating glimpse into the training habits of the world’s best long-distance runners. The author, Adharanand Finn, moves his entire family to rural Kenya to immerse himself in the world of Kenyan running and discover why they produce so many champions. Through rigorous training and insightful discussions with local athletes, Finn uncovers the secrets of their exceptional talent – from their simple diets to their tireless tenacity. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in running or looking for inspiration to achieve their own goals.
The Rise of the Ultra Runners: A Journey to the Edge of Human Endurance details the world of ultra running and the athletes who dedicate their lives to it. The author, Adharanand Finn, interviews and follows the journeys of various ultra runners, exploring the mental and physical challenges they face. The book delves into the history of ultra running and why more and more people are drawn to this grueling sport. Finn’s writing is engaging and informative, providing readers with a deep understanding of what it truly means to push the limits of human endurance. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the world of running, human resilience, and the human potential for reaching new heights of physical and mental prowess.
A Runner’s High: Older, Wiser, Slower, Stronger is a book that explores the journey of a seasoned runner who chooses to continue running, despite aging and experiencing unexpected setbacks. The book showcases the author’s experiences and challenges as she adapts to the physical changes that come with age and also learns to extract life lessons from the trials and tribulations of running. Through this compelling read, the reader gets to share in the author’s race experiences, which are both comedic and reflective, while gaining insight into the character-defining aspects of being a distance runner. Overall, A Runner’s High is a relatable and informative read for anyone interested in the sport of running or the lessons it can teach us in life.
Training for an Ultramarathon, from 50K to 100 Miles and Beyond is the ultimate guide for those looking to venture into the world of ultrarunning. With detailed information on training, nutrition, gear, and race preparation, this book is a must-have for any runner aiming to tackle distances beyond the traditional marathon. Hal Koerner, an accomplished ultrarunner with over 100 races under his belt, shares his expertise and firsthand experiences, offering valuable insights into the physical and mental demands of ultrarunning. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or a beginner, this comprehensive guide will help you surpass your limits and conquer even the most challenging of courses.
Running: Cheaper Than Therapy: A Celebration of Running is a book by author and runner Chas Newkey-Burden that highlights the physical and emotional benefits of running. From the thrill of completing a race to the feeling of accomplishment after a long run, the author emphasises how running can boost our mood and help us disconnect from our daily stressors. Newkey-Burden further explains how running can be a cost-effective way to improve our health and wellbeing, arguing that all it takes is a pair of shoes and the willingness to hit the pavement. Through personal anecdotes and insights from fellow runners, this book is a must-read for anyone looking to experience the transformative power of running.
Running Up That Hill: The Highs and Lows of Going That Bit Further is a book that delves into the incredible world of long-distance running. Written by author and runner Vassos Alexander, the book describes in vivid detail the joy, pain, and incredible discipline required to succeed at an activity that has captivated millions of people around the world. Alexander peppers the book with fascinating insights and anecdotes, sharing the wisdom he’s gathered over years of running himself, as well as through interviews with some of the most iconic names in the sport. Running Up That Hill is both an inspiring tribute to a unique sport and an insightful exploration of some of the most fascinating aspects of the human experience.
26.2 Miles to Happiness is a captivating book chronicling the exhilarating journey of running a marathon, combined with the therapeutic properties of red wine, and the redemption that it brings. The author, Paul Tonkinson, is a renowned British comedian who takes a refreshing perspective on running, seeing it as a form of meditation and a way of connecting with oneself. The book is not just about running, but rather the numerous lessons that one learns along the way, such as overcoming self-doubt, pushing through physical pain, and finding inner strength. Tonkinson’s witty and conversational writing style makes the book a pleasure to read, and leaves you feeling inspired to take on your own marathon journey.
Are you ready to reach your personal summit in running, sports, or life? Discover the power of passion, motivation, and resilience with insights from international ultrarunner and coach Steve Till. In ‘The Run of Life,’ Steve shares his journey from the back of the pack to representing Great Britain and Northern Ireland in ultrarunning events. Through his experiences and those of other athletes, learn how to set the right goals, plan your path, overcome setbacks, and achieve greatness. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just starting out, this book offers inspiration and practical advice for everyone striving to make the most of their abilities.
Are you a runner seeking inspiration to take your game to the next level? Look no further! We have curated a collection of the most inspiring running books recommended by none other than our very own Head Coach, Mike Gratton. As a London Marathon winner, Mike has handpicked these must-read books to keep you motivated and well-informed. Finding the perfect running book not only enhances your training but also cultivates a positive mindset.
This book is a definitive guide for runners, written by the “Father of Jogging”, Arthur Lydiard. It is a must-read for any athlete seeking to understand how to build up their body to perform to its fullest potential. This book focuses on training routines and techniques that have revolutionised running for thousands of athletes around the world. It’s an easy-to-follow guide for runners of all levels, packed with practical advice and proven strategies to help you achieve your goals. Consider it your bible of aerobic-base endurance training.
This book holds a special place in Mike’s heart as one of the first coaching books he ever read. It seamlessly blends memoir and training guide, taking us on Bruce Tulloh’s inspiring journey from an underprivileged child to becoming one of Britain’s most accomplished runners, culminating in a gold medal at the European Championships. The pages come alive with a compelling narrative that will ignite your spirit and push you to exceed your limits. It serves as a powerful reminder that with unwavering dedication and hard work, anything is within our grasp. Recently, Mike and Bruce have collaborated on their training camps, furthering their shared passion for excellence.
This book was written by Mike’s coach Cliff Temple at the start of the running boom. It takes readers on a journey through the history of the marathon, from its origins in ancient Greece to modern-day Olympic events. The author, Cliff Temple, has completed over 150 marathons and shares his knowledge and experience with readers in this informative and entertaining read. Mike Gratton recommends this book for those seeking a deeper understanding of the sport’s rich history while also gaining valuable training and racing advice.
One of the most enthralling stories comes from the book, In the Long Run by J.H. Peters. Peters was the first runner to run a sub 2:20 marathon and even started the 1952 Olympic Games as a favourite. However, an unknown opponent named Emil Zátopek won gold in the marathon after already winning gold in the 5,000m and 10,000m events. Zátopek reportedly said to Peters as they raced together, “This pace, it’s alright,” then pulled away to win his third gold in the Games. This book is a testament to the grit and determination of runners, and Peters’ story serves as an inspiration to never give up. This inspiring story is a testament to Peters’s impact on marathon running as well as the incredible achievements of athletes like Zátopek.
This book was authored by John Bryant, a close friend of Mike. John has worked alongside Mike’s coach, Cliff Temple, at the Times and also contributed to the early days of the London Marathon. This book tells the story of the London Marathon, from its humble beginnings in 1981 to becoming one of the world’s most iconic marathons. It’s a fascinating account of how a small group of people came together to create an event that has raised millions for charity and inspired runners around the globe. This book is a reminder of the power of community and how running can bring people together for a greater cause. Mike Gratton himself has participated in this marathon numerous times and has even won it. This book holds a special place in his heart for this book that tells the marathon’s story.
Another book by John Bryant, this is a comprehensive guide to the iconic London Marathon course. It is a detailed guide to the course and its rich race history. It includes interviews with past winners, tips from top coaches, and training plans for all levels of runners. This book is perfect for anyone seeking to run the London Marathon or simply wanting to learn more about one of the world’s most famous races. As a London Marathon winner himself, Mike Gratton highly recommends this book for both experienced and aspiring marathon runners.
“The Long Hard Road” is an inspiring autobiography of Ron Hill, one of Britain’s greatest long-distance runners. He shares his journey from being a teenage prodigy to winning numerous marathons and even running 52 consecutive years without missing a single day of training. This book not only provides insight into the world of elite athletes but also showcases the incredible perseverance and dedication that goes into becoming a champion. It’s a must-read for anyone seeking motivation and inspiration from one of the most accomplished runners in British history.
Mike Gratton’s recommended books are not your typical running book list. The handpicked selection focuses on motivating and powerful stories that are rooted in the history and development of marathon racing. These books are sure to ignite your passion for running and provide valuable insights into training techniques, mental fortitude, and inspiring stories.
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We purchased this shoe with our own money. Our review contains affiliate links, where we may earn a small fee from a purchase. All our reviews are honest and fair.
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