Learn Why Millions of Runners Have Decided That Less Is More! No topic in running has gotten more attention lately than minimalist shoes and barefoot running. Proponents say that running barefoot or in lighter, lower shoes leads to better running form and fewer injuries. But others caution that ditching your regular running shoes for barely there models can increase, not decrease, your risk of injury. In this indispensable guide, veteran running writer Scott Douglas draws on the knowledge of leading coaches and other running experts to show how and why to make the move safely to running in less shoe. Full of real-world wisdom, The Runner's World Complete Guide to Minimalism and Barefoot Running explains why most runners should consider minimalism, gives simple tests to determine if you're ready, shows how to make the transition safely to running in less shoe, and reveals easy exercises to improve your running form once you've switched. If you've been wondering whether minimalism and barefoot running are for you, let this book be your guide to a lifetime of healthy, happy running.

The basic rationale for running barefoot or in minimalist models goes something like this: Humans evolved to cover long distances by foot. By introducing a thick layer of cushioning and an elevated heel between the foot and the ground, modern running shoes alter natural running form. But modern running shoes alter form in ways that lead to injury. Therefore, getting back to a more natural running gait by running in little-to-no shoe will lead to improved form, which should lower injury rates. A key reason to run barefoot or in minimalist shoes is to allow your feet to work more naturally, free from the confines and controls of overly engineered running shoes. Unfortunately, too many runners, eager to run more naturally, have gone too far, too fast, from one extreme to the other. The realities of modern life have weakened our feet, ankles, and lower legs, and our bodies have adapted to the shoes we have worn for most of our lives; if we suddenly start running in little-to-no shoe, our bodies are not prepared for the new stresses. Runner's World Essential Guides: Barefoot Running and Minimalism provides historical context, thoughts, advice, and tips on making a healthy transition. The foremost authorities on running on the planet show you how to ease into a transition from conventional running shoes to barefoot running or minimalist shoes, starting with some simple at-home tests to see if your feet already have the strength they need to handle little-to-no shoe. You'll learn a step-by-step process for safely moving away from doing all your running in big, bulky shoes, including guidelines on how to introduce barefoot running into your regimen. Whether you want to learn more about the barefoot craze that's swept the nation or you want to introduce barefoot running into your training plan, this indispensable guide contains everything you need to get started!

Enhanced running - naturally. For 30 years runners have been told that their only hope of salvation from injury is an expensive shoe - until now. The barefoot running and minimalist-footwear revolution is here and it is turning the world of running upside down. ? Offers expert advice on how to run barefoot and strengthen atrophied muscles and revitalize super-sensitive soles ? A Harvard University study made from early 2010 shows that barefoot running is better for the body and feet than running in expensive shoes

Hit the ground running with this comprehensive guide as you learn the "go slow go fast" RunBare technique from two of its pioneers. Chapters address getting grounded, starting out slowly; navigating through rough weather and rugged terrain, coping with injuries, building your feet into living shoes, and understanding minimalist shoes.

Whether you run in the city or on trails, in races or just for fun, you'll find The Runner's Field Manual loaded with practical advice and how-to instruction. As funny as it is useful, this volume covers everything from Dealing With Drivers to Toenail Maintenance, and explores in explicit detail. COMMON THREATS • Urban: The Blackberry-transfixed businessman • Suburban: The bored, angry dog • Trail: The mountain biker who has watched too many Mountain Dew commercials SHOES & GEAR • The Reef Knot: The only knot you need to know • Barefoot Running: Crazy? Or just insane? • The Trash Bag Poncho: Three steps to ultra-cheap rainwear RACE DAY CHALLENGES • Finding the Damn Thing: Not always so easy • Navigating the Aid Station: Pinch the cup • Finish Line Vomit: Hey, it happens Full of charts, illustrations, and more than a few laughs, The Runner's Field Manual is the perfect reference for anyone who loves to run--or wants to learn how.

Running can help you lose weight, create a healthy body image, and boost your self-esteem. No matter your fitness level, you too can enjoy the benefits of this sport! With this book, you'll gain the knowledge and tools you need to run a 10K, a marathon, or just a lap around the block! The new edition includes: Cutting-edge information on hugely influential trends in natural running, including ChiRunning, barefoot running, and cross-training with yoga and meditation Information on how to select the right gear and manage your nutrition, including details on new diets favored by endurance athletes A dedicated section on running for women, including specific nutritional and physical concerns Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned veteran, this book has everything you need to maximize your running potential--from start to finish!

What Every Runner Needs to Know about Getting (and Staying) Healthy In an ideal runner's world, every step of every mile would be 100 percent pain-free. No aches, no twinges, no lingering soreness from yesterday's workout. The reality is that many runners constantly deal with a slight (or not so slight) disturbance-a tender foot, a tight hamstring, a whiny knee. While these nagging issues often aren't serious enough to require a time-out, they are annoying, especially when they don't let you fully enjoy your time on the roads. Runner's World Essential Guides: Injury Prevention and Recovery is chock-full of helpful tips on how to avoid and recover from the most common injuries that plague runners. Presented in an easy to follow format and with dozens of handy sidebars, the practical information in this book will help keep runners on healthy, pain-free, and enjoying their running experience like never before.

Everything you need to know to begin running for pleasure, for health - for life! From the first steps you take (and the shoes you take them in) to building a sound training plan, boosting your endurance and learning to run with an ease and speed you could never have imagined possible, The Runner's World[registered] Complete Guide to Beginning Running covers every aspect of the sport. There is guidance on nutrition, injury prevention and cross training; there are motivating real-life stories (including that of Oprah); and, for those who need a little extra help, specially designed 2-month and 6-month step-by-step plans.