The Born Again Runner

July 4, 2016
Regardless of one’s reasons for wanting to begin running, Magill (Build Your Running Body), a six-time U.S.A. Masters Cross Country Runner, has designed a comprehensive user’s guide to reaching running goals. At age 38, Magill was 50 pounds overweight and primarily subsisting on junk food, alcohol, and cigarettes. His wake-up call occurred when he passed out and woke to find himself in the ER. This manual relates how running motivated him to quit smoking and drinking and change his life for the better. The book is organized into three parts, with the first part focused on getting started, finding proper attire, and making it fun. The second part explores different types of training, such as training for weight loss versus training for a marathon, and the last part is geared toward setting long-term goals, choosing a runner’s diet, and avoiding injury. Readers will be inspired by the personal stories interspersed throughout from other runners. This road map to enjoying a healthy life is highly recommended for anyone serious about beginning and sticking to a running program.

September 1, 2016

On the cusp of turning 40, Magill (Build Your Running Body) was told by a physician that if he continued smoking and drinking, he wouldn't live to see his son's high school graduation. With some serious motivation and as a former runner in his youth, the author set out for a 30-minute run only to be wheezing and in pain after five minutes. Today, he holds several race records and hopes to share his athletic expertise with others in need of encouragement. The book initially seems geared toward the beginner; however, even seasoned runners can benefit from reminders of the basics. Plus, runners who have plateaued can use Magill's advice to reignite their training. Magill dispels all of the myths with study findings and crushes all excuses with the sport's positive effects to help motivate hesitant runners. With downloadable worksheets and content on the book's website, one would find that they have run out of excuses to start. As a bonus, Magill's Action Plan can be used to accomplish any life goal. VERDICT With practical advice and sound knowledge, Magill expertly and humorously inspires all fitness levels to step up their running game.--Melissa Keegan, Ela Area P.L., Lake Zurich, IL

Copyright 2016 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.