Books I've read:
Ultra Marathon Man - Dean Karnazes
The most motivational book I've ever read. It immediately changed my mindset. I've read it a number of times. It made me realise that my mind could easily deal with the punishment my body was dishing out.
The Runner's Handbook - Bob Glover
The first running book I ever read. It was a great book to read when I'd only just started. It contains an answer for every single question a beginner wants to ask.
CHI Running - Danny Dreyer
This book taught me a lot about good running form. Two of my favourite running revelations this book taught me was about not landing your foot in front of your center and that pumping your arms hard in a controlled manner can help your legs out (it still amazes me now). It don't confess to get the Chi bit, but it's a great book none the less.
Born to Run - Christopher McDougall
Amazing, a masterpiece, it's a modern day classic.
Once a Runner - John L., Jr. Parker
A true running novel. A little hard going at times, one of the amazon comments was very true which said your level of experience will determine your understanding of various parts of the story. I found there was a lot I could connect with and enjoy, but I'm no racer, and left it to Parker's clearly extensive experience of Mile racing to tell me how it feels.
Life on the Run: Coast to Coast - Matt Beardshall
I liked the way this was written, in a very down to earth and honest way. Made it easy reading. They take on a massive task which the whole team buys in to. The only thing I would mention is that the continuing pain in Matt's knee is described so well, I found myself worrying for him continuing the challenge, far too much than I'd have liked.
Relentless Forward Progress: A Guide to Running Ultramarathons - Bryon Powell
A book about ultra running from a guy who's been there and done it. Loads of tips from pros and training plans.
Barefoot Running Step by Step - Barefoot ken bob
There's a lot more to this book than the title would suggest. Ken Bob describes his own journey into barefoot running, which makes for good reading. The formula itself is well laid out in a simple manner. Although for me it was a bit like preaching to the converted. The only point I did take issue on was that minimalist footwear was considered not to show you your true natural form, and that you should do barefoot first, before five fingers and the like. This has not been my own experience. However, it's a very enjoyable and detailed book. There are also enjoyable stories by others in the back.
Eat & Run - Scott Jurek
Before I started this book I was wondering how it would compare to Ultra Marathon Man. After all, Jurek and Karnases have travelled many the same path. They are very different reads. Ultra Marathon Man has you gripped from the outset and riveted throughout. Whereas Eat & Run creeps up on you as you continue through the book and has a much more emotional and spiritual tone in the way Jurek talks about his life, family, running and diet. The book is peppered with Jurek's tried and tested recipes. I was questioning, through the first quarter of the book whether I would enjoy it. However, it unfolds into a great read. One of the biggest revelations for me was that an ultra marathoner at the top of his game can still get plantar fasciitis, but it's not something that is dwelled on.
Books I'd like to read:
Running on Empty: An Ultramarathoner's Story of Love, Loss, and a Record-Setting Run Across America - Marshall Ulrich
Be Iron Fit - Don Fink
Marathon by Hal Higdon
To the edge - Kirk Johnson
Barefoot Running: How to Run Light and Free by Getting in Touch with the Earth
Michael Sandler and Jessica Lee
Feet In The Clouds - Richard Askwith
To Be A Runner - Martin Dugard
Running Through The Wall - Neal Jamison
Personal Record - Rachel Toor
Mud, Sweat and Tears - An Irish Woman's Journey of Self-Discovery - Moire O'Sullivan
A Life Without Limits by Chrissie Wellington
