Stephen Barkley
“It simply makes you want to run.”
I bought this book because of that blurb from Outside Magazine on the inside of the cover. They’re absolutely right. After all the chapters are read and all the information is digested, the desire to run sticks with you. McDougall has written some strong motivation here.
Born to Run is a collection of narratives thrown together into one perfectly balanced package. There’s the meta-narrative about the author who sought to discover why he couldn’t run very far without injury. This question led him to the reclusive Tarahumara tribe that live in the Copper Canyons of Mexico. Their running ability is legendary—what’s their secret?
From the Tarahumara, McDougall branches out into ultramarathon culture, introducing the reader to a diverse cast of hard-core distance runners. One of these runners is a devoted bare-foot enthusiast.
Compelling tangents such as Mexican drug-runners, the nefarious role of Nike in running injuries, and the human ability to run down wild game round out the package.
This book is equal parts travel, adventure, science, and sport. If you run or have ever thought about starting, enjoy this book!
McDougall, Christopher. Born to Run: A Hidden Tribe, Superathletes, and the Greatest Race the World Has Never Seen. Random House, 2009.
Thanks for posting. My chcaporritor gave me the Born to Run book and it was a great read. Just wondering if anyone else has tried to apply the philosophy to running and training in Cork as going barefoot on the roads of Cork is a step too far for me lol! I have switched to a lighter training flat and unfortunately am not brave enough to ditch the orthotics. Can anyone else share their experiences with barefoot running/chi running and actually achieving injury free status? I have a feeling this topic could require a new blog in itself!