| Coach Jerry |
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| Joined: 14 May 2007 |
| Posts: 8 |
| Location: San Diego |
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I have learned a great deal from books about endurance sports. When I first started in the sport, I sought to learn as much as possible from books. I was, and still am, very particular about who I take guidance from. Therefore, I read many many books to learn as much as possible before making decisions about my training and racing.
I have a large library of books on running, ultramarathon, endurance nutrition, and athlete autobiographies. About 60% of the books I purchased were excellent reads. The other 40% were not. I will save you some time by sharing with you three of my favorite books that will surely interest you if you are an endurance athlete.
Favorite Books:
1. Ultra Marathon Man (Dean Karnazes)
Yes, believe it or not, there are people that have not yet read Dean's book. For those of you that have not, go buy the paperback version for $12 and treat yourself to some very entertaining stories. I credit Dean Karnazes with introducing me to the sport. He has changed the face of ultramarathon by writing a book that has become a national best seller. I classify those of us that came to the sport through Dean's book as, "Dean's Babies." Go read the book.
2. Endurance Sports Nutrition (Suzanne Girard)
Suzanne is an ultra athlete and nutritionist. Her work, Endurance Sports Nutrition, is a well-written reference manual for endurance athletes. I have found information in this book not found any where else. Especially helpful was suggested products and thorough explanations and comparisons of various endurance products. For the endurance athlete, I believe this book is a must-have.
3. A Step Beyond: A Definitive Guide to Ultra Running
(Edited by Don Allison)
I knew about this book a few years ago, but I did not purchase a copy for myself. It was only recently that a friend lent me a copy for review. I must say that it is a fine read. This book is a large conglomeration of short stories and articles written by different people. It is interesting and informative. I'll admit that, for most people, reading four pages on the subject of "rock running" would not be that interesting. But boy oh boy, I loved it! If you're training for ultra or you want to expand your knowledge of endurance sports, get a copy of this book online.
I have many books in my library, but these three jump out as must-reads. Reading books written by experts in the field can make you a better athlete. I, for one, do not want to be a "good" athlete. I want to be the best there is, so that means reading everything there is to know about the sport, it's history, and the athletes that lead races.
Let me know what you think! What books do you suggest for endurance athletes?
Always available and willing to help,
Coach Jerry |
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