🏃🏻 The five running books you need to read

Running is a wonderful sport which can fit anyone’s lifestyle. It’s flexible, you can do it anywhere, anytime, and you don’t really require any gear. There’s no need to fit into anyone’s schedule, rent out the facilities, or make reservations. It’s great for health, fitness, weight loss, and longevity. Plus, it gives you some thinking time when you can listen to podcasts or just be with your thoughts. It is a mindful activity, a sort of meditation, and it has so many more benefits that it’s clear why it’s so popular.

Sometimes, you need a little motivation or inspiration, and here are five books that will surely encourage you to lace up and hit the road.

Finding Ultra

Finding Ultra: Rejecting Middle Age, Becoming One of the World's Fittest Men, and Discovering Myself by Rich Roll is a memoir that chronicles the author's inspiring journey from a sedentary middle-aged man to an ultra-endurance athlete.

In this book, Rich shares his personal struggles with alcoholism and unhealthy lifestyle choices that led him to hit rock bottom. Determined to change his life, he embarks on a transformative journey of physical and mental endurance.

Roll takes readers through his remarkable transformation, sharing the challenges he faced and the lessons he learned along the way. From his decision to adopt a plant-based diet to his training for grueling races like the Ultraman World Championships, he provides an honest and raw account of his experiences.

Finding Ultra is not just a book about running; it's a story of self-discovery and the power of perseverance. It serves as an inspiration for anyone looking to make positive changes in their life and find their own path to personal growth and well-being.

Born to run

Born to Run by Christopher McDougall is a captivating exploration of the hidden world of ultra-distance running and the remarkable Tarahumara tribe of Mexico. McDougall sets out on a quest to uncover the secrets of the Tarahumara, who are known for their extraordinary long-distance running abilities.

In this book, McDougall delves into the science, history, and culture of running, challenging conventional wisdom about footwear, running technique, and human endurance. He introduces readers to a diverse cast of characters, including eccentric ultra-runners, scientists, and the elusive Tarahumara themselves.

Through his immersive storytelling, McDougall takes readers on a thrilling journey across breathtaking landscapes, from the Copper Canyons of Mexico to the high-stakes world of ultra-marathons. Along the way, he explores the potential of human endurance, the joy of running, and the transformative power of embracing our natural abilities.

Born to Run is not only a gripping adventure tale but also a thought-provoking exploration of the limits of human potential and the profound connection between humans and running. It inspires readers to question their own assumptions about their physical capabilities and encourages them to embrace the joy of running as a means of reconnecting with their primal instincts.

Eat and Run

Eat and Run: My Unlikely Journey to Ultramarathon Greatness by Scott Jurek is an inspiring memoir that takes readers on a remarkable journey of physical and mental endurance.

In this book, Jurek shares his inspiring story of transforming from a small-town boy with a love for running to one of the greatest ultramarathon runners in history. He details his relentless pursuit of greatness, pushing his body to the limits in races that span hundreds of miles.

But Eat and Run is not just about running; it's also about Jurek's journey towards adopting a plant-based diet and its impact on his performance. He provides valuable insights into the power of nutrition and reveals the secrets behind his ability to sustain incredible levels of energy and stamina.

Throughout the book, Jurek recounts his memorable experiences in famous races like the Western States 100-Mile Endurance Run and the Badwater Ultramarathon. He also shares personal anecdotes, offering a glimpse into the mindset of an elite athlete and the sacrifices required to achieve greatness.

Eat and Run is an inspiring and informative read that showcases the incredible potential of the human body and the importance of perseverance and self-belief. It appeals not only to running enthusiasts but also to anyone seeking inspiration to overcome challenges and achieve their goals.

Running & Being

Running & Being: The Total Experience by George Sheehan is a profound exploration of the philosophy and spirituality of running. In this book, Sheehan, a cardiologist and avid runner, delves into the deeper meaning behind the act of running and its impact on our lives.

Sheehan explores the physical, mental, and emotional aspects of running, emphasizing the importance of self-discovery and self-expression through the sport. He reflects on his own experiences as a runner and shares insights into the transformative power of running in achieving a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

Through his engaging storytelling and introspective musings, Sheehan delves into the connection between running and the human condition. He explores themes such as mortality, identity, and the pursuit of excellence, offering readers a unique perspective on the sport.

Running & Being is a philosophical exploration that encourages readers to embrace running as a means of personal growth and self-realization. Sheehan's words inspire runners to not only strive for physical fitness but also to tap into the deeper meaning and joy that running can bring to their lives.

Running the World

Running The World: My World-Record-Breaking Adventure to Run a Marathon in Every Country on Earth by Nick Butter is an extraordinary memoir that chronicles the author's ambitious quest to run a marathon in every country around the globe.

In this book, Butter takes readers on a thrilling journey as he tackles the immense challenge of running 196 marathons in 196 different countries. From war-torn nations to remote islands, he recounts his experiences navigating diverse cultures, overcoming logistical obstacles, and pushing his physical and mental limits.

Throughout his world-record-breaking adventure, Butter shares captivating stories of the people he meets along the way, the breathtaking landscapes he traverses, and the countless obstacles he encounters. He provides a unique perspective on the world, shedding light on the beauty, diversity, and resilience of humanity.

Running The World is a testament to the power of determination, perseverance, and the human spirit. Butter's inspiring journey inspires readers to pursue their own dreams, break through limitations, and embrace the incredible possibilities that lie beyond their comfort zones.

Lace-up and get out

In conclusion, these five running books offer a diverse range of stories, insights, and inspiration for runners of all levels. From personal transformations to exploring the limits of human endurance, each book takes readers on a unique journey that reveals the profound impact running can have on our lives.

Whether you're seeking motivation to start running, looking to optimize your performance, or simply interested in the remarkable world of ultra-distance running, these books have something to offer. They remind us of the power of determination, resilience, and the joy that comes from embracing our natural abilities.

So lace up your shoes, hit the road, and let these running books be your companions on your own running journey. Discover the transformative power of running and find inspiration to push beyond your limits, embrace challenges, and uncover the incredible potential that lies within you.