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sparklethenpop's review against another edition
5.0
Bingham makes me proud to be a penguin and a back of the pack runner. As he says, all of your effort feels the same to a record holder and someone in the back.
tommyhousworth's review against another edition
4.0
Any book that makes me feel good for my 11 minute mile pace is worthy of at least four stars right out of the gate.
John Bingham, who writes monthly columns for Runner's World, woke up one morning - in his late 30's or early 40's, I believe - to discover he was a mess. He was overweight, hooked on cigarettes, and booze, and couldn't even get up the stairs without huffing and puffing.
So, he started running. Months later, he was a testament to what healthy living can do. Known as "The Penguin", he encourages would-be joggers/runners simply to lace up and get out, not worried about beating a Kenyan to the finish line, but setting your own goals, and going as slow as you want - just so you're going.
He speaks to all the usual subjects - proper shoes, injuries, form, and programs to get you up to a steady mileage. He does so with humor and gentle inspiration. You never feel like he's bragging about how he turned his life around - just reminding you that if he could do it, anyone can.
A great book for anyone who wants to take to the road for a run, but isn't sure how to get started - or if they are truly 'right' for the running life.
John Bingham, who writes monthly columns for Runner's World, woke up one morning - in his late 30's or early 40's, I believe - to discover he was a mess. He was overweight, hooked on cigarettes, and booze, and couldn't even get up the stairs without huffing and puffing.
So, he started running. Months later, he was a testament to what healthy living can do. Known as "The Penguin", he encourages would-be joggers/runners simply to lace up and get out, not worried about beating a Kenyan to the finish line, but setting your own goals, and going as slow as you want - just so you're going.
He speaks to all the usual subjects - proper shoes, injuries, form, and programs to get you up to a steady mileage. He does so with humor and gentle inspiration. You never feel like he's bragging about how he turned his life around - just reminding you that if he could do it, anyone can.
A great book for anyone who wants to take to the road for a run, but isn't sure how to get started - or if they are truly 'right' for the running life.
laden_bookshelf's review against another edition
If you're on the fence with running, this is the book to get you in the right direction. I really enjoyed the read, found a lot of practical advice and information that I've already been able to use. My biggest hangup has always been my own head- and apparently I'm not alone. This book will blow up any excuses that you've been using to avoid running and I think it will help get you back on the road, treadmill or trail of your choice.
terrim21's review against another edition
4.0
i went for a run today. i looked down and noticed how white my legs are. i felt my belly jiggling. i kept running anyway.
jess_segraves's review against another edition
4.0
Now that I've gotten into running, or am at least training for a 5K next month, I've been curious to see what's been said or written about running. This was a useful book for inspiration, long-term motivation, and tips. Bingham's funny and interesting anecdotes made the book entertaining as well.
prtt949's review against another edition
4.0
I decided to pick up running again and re-read this book. It is quite good to read what He went through to become an adult athelete. He gives some really good advice. Some of it may be a little outdtaed but the message is clear.
If you are just starting a running program this is a great starting point. Anyone can get into a fitness routine it just take time and a little dedication
If you are just starting a running program this is a great starting point. Anyone can get into a fitness routine it just take time and a little dedication
cdisposti's review against another edition
challenging
funny
hopeful
informative
inspiring
lighthearted
medium-paced
5.0
ghost_name's review against another edition
3.0
It was motivational and that powered me through it. I decided to read this because an author I enjoy, Haruki Murakami, had mentioned once that he read a few "beginner books on running", so I decided to give it a shot too. OK, now where are my running shoes?
laura_sorensen's review
3.0
Theme of this book: "Get out there and do it if you want to and don't compare yourself to anyone else and make it a joyful experience." You gotta enjoy a book like that.
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