Run to the Finish: The Everyday Runner's Guide to Avoiding Injury, Ignoring the Clock, and Loving the Run

by Amanda Brooks

Overview

Inspiration and practical tips for runners who prioritize enjoyment over pace and embrace their place as an "average" runner

In her first book, popular runner blogger Amanda Brooks lays out the path to finding greater fulfillment in running for those who consider themselves "middle of the pack runners" — they're not trying to win Boston (or even qualify for Boston); they just want to get strong and stay injury-free so they can continue to enjoy running.

Run to the Finish is not your typical running book. While it is filled with useful strategic training advice throughout, at its core, it is about embracing your place in the middle of the pack with humor and learning to love the run you've got without comparing yourself to other runners. Mixing practical advice like understanding the discomfort vs. pain, the mental side of running, and movements to treat the most common injuries with more playful elements such as "Favorite hilarious marathon signs" and "Weird Thoughts We all Have at the Start Line," Brooks is the down-to-earth, inspiring guide for everyone who wants to be happier with their run.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780738285993
Publisher:	Hachette Books
Publication date:	03/03/2020
Pages:	288
Sales rank:	386,775
Product dimensions:	5.90(w) x 8.90(h) x 0.90(d)

About the Author

Amanda Brooks is the author behind the successful running website RunToTheFinish.com. She holds a degree in Journalism from the University of Missouri and spent over 10 years as an eCommerce consultant for Fortune 500 companies from Purina to Hallmark to New Balance.

Editorial Reviews

01/06/2020

Running blogger and personal trainer Brooks debuts with a useful and clear-cut primer for runners who find themselves in the “middle of the pack.” Having been running for 17 years and writing about it for 12, she’s clearly passionate about the sport: Brooks has completed eight marathons, and run over 20,000 miles. Her definition of what constitutes an athlete, however, is inclusive, and she encourages readers who run, even if noncompetitively, to think of themselves as one. There are many reasons to run, she argues, including for the sake of freedom (from one’s cell phone, for instance), exploration, relaxation (running can be meditative), and community (she encourages group running). Practical matters such as fueling the body, choosing the right shoes and socks, and why one needs a “dynamic warm up” to promote mobility and strength are also addressed. Brooks infuses her text with lighthearted humor and amusing lists (“Weird Thoughts We All Have at the Start Line”) as well as advice on topics such as how to decide whether to run a marathon. Middle-of-the-packers will enjoy this information-rich guide on how to make running a safe and enduring pastime. (Mar.)

Publishers Weekly

"Refreshing and practical, Run to the Finish is equal parts wise training advice on every imaginable topic and a call to be grateful for and to celebrate the best and worst of our runs."—Mina Samuels, author of Run Like a Girl 365 Days a Year

From the Publisher

★ 02/01/2020

In her first book, Brooks writes in the same light-hearted style that made her blog, Run to Finish, and now her Instagram, develop such a large following. This guide isn't necessarily written for experienced runners, but, rather, those who enjoy it and are trying to reach their goals. In witty and funny chapters, Brooks provides practical advice for runners, specifically those who, "consider themselves average." In addition to humor, there is a lot of practical advice in this incredibly accessible read, including lists such as, "Weird thoughts we all have at the start line," "7 lies runners love telling," and "How To Spot a Runner on Social Media." Brooks offers informative tips on items, such as training, gear, nutrition, and preparing for race day. Besides runners, other athletes will enjoy the wit throughout and will be inspired to reach their goals. VERDICT While there are plenty of books about running, few are as approachable and helpful as this one. Highly recommended for anyone looking to improve their running ability, and those who consider themselves a "middle of the pack" runner.—Pamela Calfo, Bridgeville P.L., PA

Library Journal