Runners World Complete Book Running

Writing for committed and/or competitive runners, Burfoot, a Boston Marathon winner and long-time editor of Runner's World magazine, adds his commentary to the advice of other experts and professionals. Topics range from diet and properly fitting shoes to injury prevention and cross-training, many discussed with an eye toward helping readers make it to the finish line of a marathon. Technical terms like lactate threshold and maximum oxygen uptake are used, often in a manner that assumes readers have prior knowledge of the concepts. Speedwork, hill work and the merits of treadmills are examined at length, along with the oft-repeated advice that the body needs rest, especially before a big race. The section titled ""The Mental Side of Running"" acknowledges the crucial role a runner's state of mind plays in his/her development in the sport; beginners of any sport would find these chapters a good source of motivation. Also included are several articles on women's running. Notable among these is the Q&A forum in which doctors reply to commonly asked questions about how running affects women's physiology. Readers who want to make running a centerpiece of their lives will find here an effective training program for improving speed, efficiency and endurance. (Oct.)