As runners, it often happens we get caught up in the training aspect of the sport and quickly forget about the big picture. We tend to forget why we started to run in the first place – with an ambition to learn, to grow, to reach the unthinkable. With a couple of races successfully finished, we turn running into another boring habit and slowly slowly, lose our motivation.
To keep things exciting, we must act in the same way as we did when we were at the beginning. Remember? We need to feel the progress, we need to keep on growing, both mentally and physically. And the only way to achieve that is to never stop learning. Because learning means exploring new ways and possibilities, setting new goals, and challenging ourselves further. Isn’t that what we need from life?
Of course, there are many ways to learn about running but one of the most accessible ways to do this is continuously studying new and new running books. Stories from people who are some of the best runners in the world or simply normal people like you that have something valuable to say.
Here’s a look at why running books are essential.
They help you stay motivated
No matter how passionate you are about running, there will be times when you need a little extra motivation to keep going. That’s where running books can be a big help. When you read about someone else’s journey as a runner—whether it’s a memoir about their experiences training for a marathon or a how-to guide on getting started with trail running—it can reignite your own passion for the sport and inspire you to get back out there and hit the pavement (or trails).
They give you a new perspective
When you’ve been running for a while, it’s easy to get stuck in a rut and feel like you’re not making any progress. If you find yourself in this situation, pick up a running book and gain some new perspective. It can be eye-opening to read about different training methods, race strategies, or even just someone else’s day-to-day experiences as a runner. You may find that there are other ways of approaching your training that you haven’t considered before and that could help you take your performance to the next level.
They keep you accountable
Running books can also be a great way to keep yourself accountable. If you’re trying to hit a new PR or accomplish a challenging goal, reading about other runners who have done the same thing can be inspiring. You may even find that following someone else’s training program is just what you need to stay motivated and on track with your own goals.
Whether you’re an experienced runner or just starting out, running books can play an important role in your journey as an athlete. They provide motivation, offer new perspectives, and help to hold you accountable—all of which are essential for improving your performance and reaching your running goals. So add some running-related books to your library today and never stop learning!
