A few weeks ago Ryan Robert contacted me about reading and reviewing his book The Ultimate Beginner's Running Guide: The Key to Running Inspired". I was thrilled to be asked to do this and quickly accepted! Unfortunately, it has taken me longer than I would have liked to actually get this post written.
The Ultimate Beginner's Running Guide covered many of the aspects that first time runners wonder about such as what to wear, what kind of shoes do I need, what to eat before and after a run, and what to do if you just really don't want to run that day.
I really enjoyed the visualization strategies that the book gave. I have used visualization when I was in high school and even when I've coached my highschoolers on the swim team and really believe that it works. However, I had never thought about using it for running.
The book had 4 training guides in the back: already active people, non-exercisers, over 50, and one for weight loss. Looking through them, I felt that the guides for beginner's were advanced for a newbie runner and that trying to run 5 days a week might be a day or two too much for someone just starting out. It suggested switching your off days for when you wanted them, but to make sure you ran 5 days a week. My husband who runs marathons and is constantly training for something doesn't run 5 days a week. In my opinion I don't think someone just starting would be able to start with that frequency and enjoy it. I know I wouldn't. I'm doing good to get in 3 days a week.
I would recommend this book to anyone that is thinking about running or a new runner that has recently started. There was a lot of information, but it wasn't overwhelming. Several times throughout the book, it said if you feel like starting, go to the back and select a plan.
I read this book, too! Great review! :0)
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