A Closer Look at Running for Health, Fitness, and Peak Performance
With the wealth of beginning running and training books that have been published over the years, it can be difficult to choose one that will provide the clearest and most accurate advice. While classic books such as Jim FixxaTMs Complete Book of Running were able to provide valuable advice at the time of publication, the rapid advances in exercise science and technology have rendered portions of the book obsolete or outdated. Thus, it is extremely important that any beginning runner be able to select a book containing both useful and up- to-date information. Frank ShorteraTMs book Running for Health, Fitness, and Peak Performance (Dorling Kindersley Limited, 2005; New York, New York; $15.00) does an excellent job achieving these goals.

As one of AmericaaTMs most successful and respected distance runners, Frank Shorter clearly has the knowledge and ability to discuss training and racing at the elite level. However, in this book, he is able to present helpful information for both the beginning and the more advanced runner. As he says, aoeI believe anyone who exercises is an athlete: it is merely the level of intensity, goal-setting, and focus that differentiates one athlete from another.a He describes how his collegiate coach, Robert Giegengack, was able to teach him aoehow to be my own coacha and that his goal in writing this book is to be able to pass this knowledge on to the reader.

After a brief introduction to the many benefits of running, Shorter delves into a series of concise yet accurate chapters dealing with topics including how to select proper running attire, the design and selection of running shoes, nutrition, strength training, goal setting, stretching, motivation, running form, and racing. Shorter is able to present a sensible approach to training that focuses on both short term and long term goals. He stresses the importance of gradual increases in training and aoeperceived efforta in training in order to prevent burnout and to foster enjoyment of the sport. His three main points to training are: aoebe consistent, donaTMt overtrain, and be aware that the duration or time of your run is more important than the distance you cover.a These are key points important for runners at any level. With the increase in beginning runners often doing too much too soon in the effort to compete in the marathon event before they are ready, ShorteraTMs advice becomes extremely relevant to the current state of running in this country.

In addition, ShorteraTMs stretching and strength training sections do an excellent job providing several key stretches and strengthening exercises that are clearly described with full-color photographs. These are able to present how to stretch and strengthen major muscle groups without overwhelming the reader with too many strategies incorporated at once. His explanations for these sections as well as the physiology and nutrition behind training do an excellent job presenting up-to- date information in these areas that can be clearly understood for those who do not have a background in science. He also provides basic training schedules for beginning and more advanced runners and concludes with an introduction to racing.

This book serves as an excellent resource for any beginning runner or individual wanting to learn more about a specific topic related to running. Its ability to acknowledge the differences between individual training styles and running forms is an essential component of any training strategy that is often overlooked by many coaches and athletes. While there are many books available that deal with many of the topics contained within this book, ShorteraTMs book is one of the best at combining accurate and up-to-date information with a sound training and racing philosophy.

Editor note: Elaine Binkley is senior at Denison University where she has earned NCAA Division III All American honors twice in cross-country. She has been named to the ESPN The Magazine Academic All- America(R) Women's Track & Field/Cross Country first team as selected by the College Sports Information Directors of America in 2005 and 2006. Elaine also earned All State honors in Cross Country and Track at Bishop Watterson High School.

The RUNOHIO's Book Review - A Closer Look at - explores various running books and is a regular column in RUNOHIO. - To have your book considered for reviewed, please send a copy to: Matt McGowan, c/ o RUNOHIO, 330 Spellman Street, Granville, OH 43023

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