In 'Natural Born Heroes,' Christopher McDougall embarks on a captivating quest to uncover the ancient secrets of human endurance and heroism. He journeys to the rugged landscapes of Crete, exploring the extraordinary feats of the island's World War II resistance fighters. Along the way, McDougall reveals surprising connections between modern running, ancestral wisdom, and the resilience of the human spirit. With a blend of history, science, and adventure, this book challenges conventional notions of athleticism and reveals the true potential within us all. Join him as he redefines what it means to be a hero in a world that's forgotten how to run.
By Christopher McDougall
Published: 2016
""The human body is not meant to be a machine; it is a sanctuary of movement, a testament to resilience and adaptability that can conquer any landscape.""
NATIONAL BESTSELLER • From the bestselling author of Born to Run comes a book that inspires us to unleash the extraordinary potential of the human body and climb, swim, skip, throw, and jump our way to heroic feats. "Redefines the heroic ideal, establishing heroism as a skill set rather than a virtue."—NPR Books Christopher McDougall’s journey begins with a story of remarkable athletic prowess: On the treacherous mountains of Crete, a motley band of World War II Resistance fighters—an artist, a shepherd, and a poet—abducted a German commander from the heart of the Axis occupation. To understand how, McDougall retraces their steps across the island that birthed Herakles and Odysseus, and discovers ancient techniques for endurance, sustenance, and natural movement that have been preserved in unique communities around the world. His search takes us scrambling over rooftops with a Parkour crew in London, foraging for greens with a ballerina in Brooklyn, tossing heavy pieces of driftwood on a Brazilian beach with the creator of MovNat—and, finally, to our own backyards. “McDougall traveled to Crete to examine the physical and mental capacity of Greek war heroes [and] studied natural movement, endurance, and nutrition to understand how regular people are capable of extraordinary athletic feats.... We can all adapt the tools of the athletes featured.” —Real Simple Look for Christopher McDougall's new book, Born to Run 2, coming in December!
Showing 8 of 21 similar books
Abi Tyas Tunggal is a distinguished author known for his impactful contributions to contemporary literature and digital content. He has garnered acclaim for his insightful storytelling and adept handling of complex themes, resonating with a diverse readership. Tunggal's work often explores the intersections of technology, society, and human experience, making him a prominent voice in modern narrative arts. Beyond his literary achievements, he is also recognized for his innovative use of digital platforms to engage with and expand his audience. Tunggal continues to influence the literary landscape with his thought-provoking and accessible writing.
Andrew Huberman is a renowned neuroscientist and tenured professor at Stanford University, where he leads the Huberman Lab, focusing on brain function, behavior, and health. He has significantly contributed to the understanding of neural plasticity, particularly how the brain can change in response to experience and injury. Huberman is widely recognized for his engaging public science communication, which includes the popular "Huberman Lab" podcast that translates complex neuroscience topics into accessible insights for broad audiences. His research has been published in leading scientific journals, earning him numerous accolades and fostering a deeper public appreciation for neuroscience. Additionally, his work extends into practical applications, influencing fields such as mental health, vision restoration, and performance optimization.
Marc Andreessen is an American entrepreneur, software engineer, and venture capitalist, best known for co-creating the Mosaic web browser, the first widely-used web browser, and co-founding Netscape. Andreessen is also the co-founder of Andreessen Horowitz, one of Silicon Valley’s most prominent venture capital firms, where he invests in groundbreaking technology companies like Facebook, Airbnb, and Coinbase. He is a thought leader on the impact of technology and innovation, often sharing his views on the future of the internet and startups. His contributions to the development of the web and the tech ecosystem have made him one of the most influential figures in technology.
Anna Kendrick is an acclaimed actress and author, best known for her versatile performances in film and theater. She gained widespread recognition for her role in the "Twilight" series and earned an Academy Award nomination for her performance in "Up in the Air." In 2016, Kendrick expanded her creative repertoire by publishing her memoir, "Scrappy Little Nobody," which offers a candid, humorous look at her life and career. The book became a New York Times bestseller, showcasing her sharp wit and storytelling talent. Kendrick continues to influence both the entertainment and literary worlds with her engaging presence and authentic voice.
Jason Silva is a Venezuelan-American filmmaker, philosopher, and futurist, best known for hosting the Emmy-nominated series Brain Games on National Geographic. Silva is a passionate advocate for technology, creativity, and the exploration of human potential, often delivering thought-provoking talks on how innovation is reshaping the world. His series Shots of Awe, where he combines philosophical musings with stunning visuals, has gained a large following online. Silva frequently speaks about topics like futurism, artificial intelligence, and the intersection of science and art. His enthusiastic and visionary approach has made him a leading voice in discussions about the future of humanity.
Patrick Collison is an Irish entrepreneur and co-founder of Stripe, a global technology company that enables businesses to accept online payments. Along with his brother John, Patrick has transformed Stripe into one of the most valuable private tech companies in the world. Stripe’s innovative approach to online payments has made it a key player in the financial technology space. Collison is known for his deep interest in science, technology, and policy, often engaging in conversations about innovation, progress, and how to improve societal outcomes. He is an advocate for scientific advancement and the intersection of technology and public policy.
Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.
Soman Chainani is a renowned author best known for his bestselling fantasy series, "The School for Good and Evil," which has been translated into multiple languages and adapted into a film by Netflix. He is a graduate of Harvard University, where he studied English and American Literature, and holds an MFA in Film from Columbia University. Chainani's work often explores themes of friendship, identity, and the nature of good and evil, captivating young adult readers worldwide. In addition to his achievements as a novelist, he has also received accolades for his work as a screenwriter and filmmaker. Chainani continues to be a significant figure in contemporary children's and young adult literature, inspiring a new generation of readers and writers.
Showing 8 of 24 related collections
“"The human body is not meant to be a machine; it is a sanctuary of movement, a testament to resilience and adaptability that can conquer any landscape."”
Natural Born Heroes
By Christopher McDougall
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
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.
Key information about the book.
Buy on Amazon
Buy via BookShopSupport local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
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!
Unlock the secrets to conquering your next marathon or half-marathon with "The Runner’s World Big Book of Marathon and Half-Marathon Training." This comprehensive guide offers tailored training plans, expert tips, and motivational stories from seasoned runners to elevate your performance. Discover how nutrition, injury prevention, and mental strategies can transform your running journey into an exhilarating experience. Whether you're a novice or a seasoned athlete, you'll find the insights needed to enhance your stamina and speed. Ready to take the first step toward your personal best?
Active Birth revolutionizes the way we view labor and delivery by empowering women to embrace their innate instincts in the birthing process. Authored by renowned midwife Janet Balaskas, the book blends practical guidance with heartfelt stories, illuminating the transformative power of movement during childbirth. Readers are invited to explore techniques that promote comfort, confidence, and connection with their bodies. With its focus on natural practices, the book encourages expectant parents to challenge contemporary medical norms and reclaim the birth experience. Dive into "Active Birth" and discover how to turn the journey of bringing new life into the world into a profoundly empowering adventure!
In "Astrophysics for People in a Hurry," Neil deGrasse Tyson takes readers on a whirlwind journey through the cosmos, unveiling the complex wonders of the universe in bite-sized pieces. He distills complex theories about black holes, dark matter, and the Big Bang into accessible narratives that spark curiosity and awe. With his signature wit and clarity, Tyson makes the grand tapestry of the universe relatable, inviting readers to ponder their place within it. This captivating exploration not only enlightens but also ignites a sense of wonder about the infinite possibilities of existence. Are you ready to embrace the mysteries of the universe, one brief chapter at a time?
In "Baby-Led Weaning," expert nutritionist Gill Rapley unveils a revolutionary approach to introducing solid foods to your baby. Emphasizing the natural instincts of infants, the book advocates for letting little ones self-feed from the start, promoting independence and healthier eating habits. Through practical advice and scientific insights, Rapley highlights the importance of trusting your child to choose their food and develop vital motor skills. This method challenges traditional weaning practices, inviting parents to rethink mealtime dynamics. Dive into this enlightening read to discover how baby-led weaning can transform your family's relationship with food!
"Starting Strength" by Mark Rippetoe is a revolutionary guide that delves into the fundamentals of strength training. With a focus on barbell exercises, it emphasizes proper technique and the science behind effective lifting. This book not only teaches readers how to build muscle and enhance their physical capabilities but also boosts their confidence in the weight room. Discover why this methodology has transformed countless beginners into confident lifters. Prepare to explore the art and science of strength in a way that will change how you view fitness forever.
In 'The Rise of Superman', Steven Kotler explores the exhilarating world of extreme sports and its connection to the concept of flow, a state of heightened consciousness. He reveals how athletes push the boundaries of human potential and tap into extraordinary abilities when they enter this flow state. Through gripping real-life stories and scientific research, Kotler uncovers the secrets of peak performance, suggesting that we all possess the capability to elevate our experiences. This book invites readers to consider what lies within themselves and how they can harness their own flow to achieve greatness. Prepare to be inspired and discover how mastering flow can transform your life.
In 'Peak Performance,' Brad Stulberg and Steve Magness unveil the surprising science behind achieving excellence in any field. They combine research from psychology, physiology, and elite sports to offer readers actionable insights on how to cultivate resilience and focus. The authors assert that the key to greatness isn't just hard work, but also strategic rest and recovery. Readers will discover how to harness their potential by balancing stress and rest to sustain peak performance over time. This compelling guide promises to transform the way you think about success, urging you to rethink your approach to performance.
Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.
