Lacing up and hitting the pavement has always been more than just exercise for me; it’s a way to clear my head, challenge my limits, and, oddly enough, enjoy some ‘me’ time. Alongside the physical journey, I’ve been devouring books that explore the soul of running. They dive into not just the how-to, but the profound why behind each step we take. So, after quite the reading marathon, here’s my take on the best books about running. Each book has a slightly longer nugget of what’s inside to pique your interest.
Here’s my rundown of the best books about running:
**”Born to Run” by Christopher McDougall** \- This is the epic that feels like part adventure tale, part fitness revolution. McDougall takes us into Mexico’s Copper Canyons where the Tarahumara Indians run for miles without rest or injury. It’s a fascinating dive into barefoot running, human potential, and the sheer joy of running.
**”What I Talk About When I Talk About Running” by Haruki Murakami** \- From the renowned novelist comes a memoir that connects the discipline of running to the craft of writing. Murakami reflects on his life and marathons, offering a meditative glimpse into the runner’s mindset.
**”Running with the Kenyans” by Adharanand Finn** \- Finn takes a personal and up-close look at why Kenyans dominate the world of long-distance running. He moves his family to Kenya to experience their way of life and training, unravelling the secrets of their success.
**”Ultramarathon Man: Confessions of an All-Night Runner” by Dean Karnazes** \- Karnazes shares his unbelievable yet true running experiences, like running a marathon to the South Pole and a 200-mile relay race solo. His stories are about pushing beyond perceived limits and the life lessons learned along the way.
**”The Complete Book of Running” by Jim Fixx** \- A classic that helped kick off the running boom in the 1970s, this book mixes practical advice with motivational stories. Fixx’s legacy continues to inspire runners to hit the road for health and happiness.
“Once a Runner” by John L. Parker Jr. – Often dubbed the best novel about running, Parker captures the essence of competitive running and what it means to be a runner in a story that resonates with anyone who knows the loneliness of long-distance training.
**”The Science of Running: How to Find Your Limit and Train to Maximize Your Performance” by Steve Magness** \- For those who geek out on the technical aspects, Magness offers a deep dive into the physiology of running and how to apply scientific principles to training.
**”Run or Die” by Kilian Jornet** \- Jornet is a renowned ultrarunner and this autobiography gives readers a look into the mind of a man who conquers mountains. It’s a tale of endurance, passion, and the drive to live life on the edge.
**”Feet in the Clouds: A Tale of Fell-Running and Obsession” by Richard Askwith** \- This book explores the uniquely British sport of fell-running and the author’s personal journey through this gruelling but exhilarating pastime.
**”Running to the Edge: A Band of Misfits and the Guru Who Unlocked the Secrets of Speed” by Matthew Futterman** \- It’s a compelling narrative about a legendary coach, Bob Larsen, who trained a group of Californian runners to break the most elusive barriers in distance running.
Every book on this list has left me with a deeper appreciation for running as both an art and a science. They’ve motivated me through injury, fatigue, and even the worst weather for that “just one more mile” push.
What about you? Have you read any of these and found yourself lacing up with a new zeal afterwards? Or maybe you have a favourite running book that’s not on the list? Drop your recommendations and let’s share our top reads that keep our running spirits high!
by cryptomir