Marathoning for Mortals: A Regular Person's Guide to the Joy of Running or Walking a Half-Marathon or Marathon

I just completed my first marathon and I can't say enough about this book's training program. I am a "mere mortal" and never really ran much before I started training for the Chicago Marathon. I found myself amazed at how I was always ready for the next long distance every weekend. There are several different training programs listed in the book that meets the needs of all runners from novice to expert. In addition to the training, this book also covers all the questions you would never think to ask, but you need to know... from the type of socks you should wear to what you should eat the night before the race. I was completely prepared for my marathon and I owe it all to John and Jenny! I can't recommend this book enough!

Marathoning is more than a physical effort. It is also mental and spiritual. Body and mind both must be conditioned for the 26.2 mile adventure. This book addresses the whole person's preparation for a marathon. Bingham stresses that each person can find success at their own level. A few years ago, I joined "Team In Training" to do a marathon while raising money to fight cancer. A noble goal, but I had never done more than a 5K. In fact I am a cancer survivor myself! I read this book cover to cover, and followed the ideas. Foure months later, I finished my first marathon! I have done a few more since then too! If you are a hot-shot runner, go write your own book. Want a technical book in running? Go get one. This book is for the rest of us who just want to do the marathon, go the distance, and have some fun too! Thank You John!

This is an excellent book for whomever needs some help on his/her training. It explains in perfect detail how to train for a full or half marathon according to your current level. It tells you what to expect, how to prepare yourself, and especially it makes a lot of emphasis on cross training (which means training by doing other sports other than running). Cross training is a key component in a good routine. Few authors put so much emphasis on this. He also explains the importance of stretching and using other sports for your benefit. I really think this is one of the best books you can get if you don't know anything about training for a marathon and you are planning to train for one.

A great easy-to-read book that gives you interesting info about what distance running means for your body, and what it takes for you to be prepared both physically and mentally, to get to the start line. John's and Jenny's explanations, experiences and suggestions encouraged me to revisit my training routine for, as I kept on reading, I realized how my original approach was not helping me to get the best out of my effort. I made some adjustments and they have resulted in evident improvements. If you are not one of those seasoned-supersonic runners in the world, I'm sure you will find the book of great help, and at times, even a source of inspiration.