Born to Run invites readers on an exhilarating journey into the hidden world of ultra-running, where the limits of human endurance are pushed to astonishing extremes. Christopher McDougall chronicles his quest to discover why we are meant to run and the extraordinary Tarahumara tribe, renowned for their incredible speed and stamina. With captivating tales of unlikely athletes, scientific insights, and a spirited quest for a mythical race, this book challenges conventional wisdom about running and life. As McDougall uncovers secrets to joy in movement, readers are left to ponder: what truly lies within our own potential? Lace up your sneakers and prepare to be inspired to embrace the wild runner inside you!
By Christopher McDougall
Published: 2010
"Run when you can, walk if you have to, crawl if you must; just never give up."
A New York Times bestseller 'A sensation ... a rollicking tale well told' - The Times At the heart of Born to Run lies a mysterious tribe of Mexican Indians, the Tarahumara, who live quietly in canyons and are reputed to be the best distance runners in the world; in 1993, one of them, aged 57, came first in a prestigious 100-mile race wearing a toga and sandals. A small group of the world's top ultra-runners (and the awe-inspiring author) make the treacherous journey into the canyons to try to learn the tribe's secrets and then take them on over a course 50 miles long. With incredible energy and smart observation, McDougall tells this story while asking what the secrets are to being an incredible runner. Travelling to labs at Harvard, Nike, and elsewhere, he comes across an incredible cast of characters, including the woman who recently broke the world record for 100 miles and for her encore ran a 2:50 marathon in a bikini, pausing to down a beer at the 20 mile mark.
Christopher McDougall is an acclaimed author and journalist best known for his bestselling book "Born to Run," which explores the science and culture of long-distance running. With a background in journalism, McDougall has written for prominent publications such as Outside Magazine and Men's Health, where he combines storytelling with insightful research. His work often delves into themes of endurance, human potential, and the connection between physical activity and overall well-being. McDougall's engaging narrative style and passion for adventure have inspired countless readers to embrace a more active lifestyle. In addition to his writing, he is a public speaker and advocate for natural movement and barefoot running.
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“Run when you can, walk if you have to, crawl if you must; just never give up.”
Born to Run
By Christopher McDougall
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