Feet Don't Fail Me Now

January 27, 2014
Kaplan, a journalist and running instructor, offers an irreverent, light-hearted, yet informative guide to the serious business of running. Starting at the very beginningâgetting out for a first runâhe takes the reader on a year-long journey involving training and preparation for 5 km, 10 km, half-marathon and marathon distance runs. Drawing on a variety of experts and his own experience as a self-described "average" runner, Kaplan sets out helpful weekly training programs and addresses a wide range of issues: the physiology and psychology of running, nutrition, clothing and finding support in the community of runners. This "average" 50-something runner/reviewer found the chapter on cross-training an affirmation of what works best for aging joints and muscles. Kaplan weaves music into the training program, mostly by pop musicians. Music preferences, like training programs, tend to be highly individual and subjective, but the author notes that the songs he has included are only suggestions. Each runner's play list will be unique. References to very current political events, not to mention the pop songs, could quickly date an otherwise timely guide that has the potential to be well-worn by many new runners in the years to come. Agent: Chris Bucci, Anne McDermid & Associates.

February 1, 2014

Kaplan, who writes a weekly running column for Canada's National Post, was a nonrunner who turned himself into a Boston Marathon qualifier. He has written a guide to help wanna-be runners do the same. He takes readers from running their first 5K race to training to run a marathon in a year. Kaplan opens each chapter with a two- to three-week training plan, explaining how the workouts are structured, and then introducing additional topics, which become more advanced as the book progresses, from run/walks to longer runs, speed work, hill workouts, and cross training. He has a much more casual tone than readers will find in other running training guides as he covers topics such as sneakers, running form, motivation, and diet, with advice from professional runners such as Josphat Nzinga and Kenneth Mungara and scientists and medical doctors, for example, the director of clinical dietetics at the Mayo Clinic. A standout feature is the inclusion at the end of chapters of recommendations for songs to listen to that are applicable to the running covered, from the likes of Paul Simon; Raekwon, the Chef of Wu-Tang Clan; Willie Nelson; and Jack White. VERDICT Kaplan isn't covering new ground here, but his hybrid approach of personal experience, reference to experts, and his music recommendations makes for an entertaining book that may appeal beyond the usual readership, providing motivation for novice runners.--Maura Deedy, Weymouth P.L., MA

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