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Slow AF Run Club: The Ultimate Guide for Anyone Who Wants to Run
A practical guide and a celebration of running for runners of all sizes and athletic ability, from the founder of the Slow AF Run Club.
Ten years ago, Martinus Evans got some stern advice from his “Lose weight or die.” First defensive, but then defiant, Evans vowed that day to run a marathon, though his doctor thought he was crazy. Since then, Evans has run eight marathons and hundreds of other distances in his 300-something pound body, created his own devoted running community, and has been featured on the cover of Runner’s World.
This book is a blueprint for those who may not fit the image of a “traditional” runner—that is, someone who is larger in size, less athletic, out of shape, or dealing with any kind of health issue that slows them down—to feel empowered to lace up their shoes and embrace the body they have right now.
As Evans says, the incredible benefits of running—better sleep, strong muscles and bones, better cardiovascular and mental health, and a sense of community—can and should be available to all of us. This practical handbook contains specialized advice to make getting started less intimidating, covering everything from gear and nutrition to training schedules, recovery tips, races (it’s okay to come in DFL! [i.e., dead f*cking last]), and finding a running group. Full of essential advice and humor from a former newbie who fell off a treadmill on his first run (literally), The Slow AF Run Club is for anyone who wants to pick up running for the sheer joy of it.
Ten years ago, Martinus Evans got some stern advice from his “Lose weight or die.” First defensive, but then defiant, Evans vowed that day to run a marathon, though his doctor thought he was crazy. Since then, Evans has run eight marathons and hundreds of other distances in his 300-something pound body, created his own devoted running community, and has been featured on the cover of Runner’s World.
This book is a blueprint for those who may not fit the image of a “traditional” runner—that is, someone who is larger in size, less athletic, out of shape, or dealing with any kind of health issue that slows them down—to feel empowered to lace up their shoes and embrace the body they have right now.
As Evans says, the incredible benefits of running—better sleep, strong muscles and bones, better cardiovascular and mental health, and a sense of community—can and should be available to all of us. This practical handbook contains specialized advice to make getting started less intimidating, covering everything from gear and nutrition to training schedules, recovery tips, races (it’s okay to come in DFL! [i.e., dead f*cking last]), and finding a running group. Full of essential advice and humor from a former newbie who fell off a treadmill on his first run (literally), The Slow AF Run Club is for anyone who wants to pick up running for the sheer joy of it.
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Published June 6, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
October 7, 2024
Very good running tips and liked how honest he was about his experience with running has been.
February 10, 2024
Highly recommend listening to this as an audiobook (though it sounds like there's some great resources with the print version). It's like having a conversation with a friend who's super knowledgeable, approachable, and supportive. Martinus covers all the questions or worries that a new runner might have. I love his work towards making running more inclusive and supportive overall.
October 24, 2025
This was a five star read for sure. I’ve been wanting to read it since learning about Slow AF Run Club a couple years ago. Something I strongly believe is that running should be accessible, inclusive and diverse. Unfortunately, running, especially in run clubs or races can be seen as elitist, overly-competitive and un inclusive. I absolutely love how much care went into crafting this book. The book serves as a guide aimed at beginner, slow, and/or larger-bodied runners, which gives advice on how to start running, finding good running clothes and shoes, fueling and nutrition, safety when running, what not to do, and more. It is so comprehensive, and I especially appreciate the fact that he added in tips and sections that others usually don’t include. For example, he covers “running while Black”, mentions period underwear and types of sports bras, and even covers a bit about bathrooms and avoiding stomach issues on runs. Martinus is a simply refreshing voice in the running community. So many Olympic and elite athletes have written books, given talks, etc. but we finally have a role model that beginner, slow AF, and plus-size runners can relate to and feel comfortable with. And his casualness, plain language, and breakdowns of running tips add to this. This is so important because everyone who wants to should be encouraged to run, and never shamed, intimidated, or doubted. Well done, Martinus! 🐢
April 24, 2024
I started following the author on Instagram when I was training for the Great Turtle Trail Run on Mackinac Island a few years ago. It’s nice to listen to the audiobook narrated by Martinus himself. He seems like a cool bro, and listening to this audiobook makes me want to start running again.
June 9, 2024
I really enjoyed this view on running and fitness. It doesn’t matter our size or speed, it only matters that we try. Thank you, Martinus Evans, for sharing your story and being the one book that makes me feel like getting off the couch again.
January 6, 2024
I really loved Martinus' positive attitude. There was some great tips I never would have thought of. Made me even more excited and prepared for my upcoming 10K. I like how it was very simple processes to understand and implement. I liked the audio book as he was very easy to listen to but think a hard copy would be awesome to refer back to.
January 12, 2024
I don't do to many 5 star reviews but as an experienced distance runner, I LOVED this book & wished it was around 10 years ago when I started my running journey. Martinis hits EVERY angle of nutrition, fueling & training for your first race and finding your tribe of runners. This was a fantastic listen/ read ( I recommend the audiobook!) as his humor had me cracking up. 🤣 Get this book now!
December 22, 2024
Listened to the audiobook, which is read by the author (always a nice surprise), who has a deep male voice with an American accent, and is suitable for 1.5x speed.
Love the energy shared by this guy: his wisdom, his experiences, his outlook on life. We can strive to follow in his footsteps.
Favourite Quotes:
"There's always gonna be someone telling you to get on that bus."
"When the going gets tough, do you quit? Do you fight back? Do you run away? Or do you freeze? All of this comes down to mindset. Your mindset is everything."
"The body that you have today is the body you have today. You can only do what you can today."
"You can do hard things."
FEAR - false evidence appearing real
"Do it afraid."
"You cannot compare your day 1 with someone else's day 100."
"Take note of your accomplishment and stop comparing your journey to those of other people."
"People's opinions of you are not your business. Add them to your list and prove them wrong."
Overcome imposter syndrome? "Running is all about doing hard things."
Overcome analysis paralysis? "Get yourself out there and run. You don't have time for fear or hesitation."
"There were three treadmills and the only empty one was right in the middle, inconveniently sandwiched between two people running like gazelles on the Serengeti."
"Take it from someone who's first run was 15 seconds on a treadmill…"
"You gotta chill the hell out and calm the fxck down."
"If I don't make time to cross-train, I will be making time for physical therapy and doctor visits."
"It’s non-running that makes you better at running."
"Don't try nothing new on race day."
"Look at your weaknesses and work on them."
"I learned that staying power comes from goals, values, processes and rituals."
"Values generate goals. You achieve goals. You can live values."
"If you don't know what you value, you don't know where you're going."
"Why is it even important? When you struggle for motivation, this is the fuel for your inner fire."
Love the energy shared by this guy: his wisdom, his experiences, his outlook on life. We can strive to follow in his footsteps.
Favourite Quotes:
"There's always gonna be someone telling you to get on that bus."
"When the going gets tough, do you quit? Do you fight back? Do you run away? Or do you freeze? All of this comes down to mindset. Your mindset is everything."
"The body that you have today is the body you have today. You can only do what you can today."
"You can do hard things."
FEAR - false evidence appearing real
"Do it afraid."
"You cannot compare your day 1 with someone else's day 100."
"Take note of your accomplishment and stop comparing your journey to those of other people."
"People's opinions of you are not your business. Add them to your list and prove them wrong."
Overcome imposter syndrome? "Running is all about doing hard things."
Overcome analysis paralysis? "Get yourself out there and run. You don't have time for fear or hesitation."
"There were three treadmills and the only empty one was right in the middle, inconveniently sandwiched between two people running like gazelles on the Serengeti."
"Take it from someone who's first run was 15 seconds on a treadmill…"
"You gotta chill the hell out and calm the fxck down."
"If I don't make time to cross-train, I will be making time for physical therapy and doctor visits."
"It’s non-running that makes you better at running."
"Don't try nothing new on race day."
"Look at your weaknesses and work on them."
"I learned that staying power comes from goals, values, processes and rituals."
"Values generate goals. You achieve goals. You can live values."
"If you don't know what you value, you don't know where you're going."
"Why is it even important? When you struggle for motivation, this is the fuel for your inner fire."
July 18, 2024
Do you want to start running? This is THE best book to read if so.
As a kid I was never a runner. I got winded too quickly. I overheat easily. I was too big, had too many extra pounds and was often light headed as well. I never completed the dreaded gym class mile except once, and that was outside the 20 min time limit and my teacher refused to mark it down and I got in trouble for coming in off the field late.
So. I decided in my adulthood to become a runner (at first only to prove that gym teacher wrong. Suck it, Ms. Bishop!) I think the first book I read was Born to Run. It was good but hardly gave me any pointers except maybe I should run barefoot. (This is not recommended as a beginner runner who has never run before).
I then started watching youtube videos and slowly figured out that there were instruction videos on EVERYTHING related to running - how to breathe, what kind of stride to have, how to achieve optimal heel strike, nutrition, etc. So it turns out, you aren't BORN knowing how to run. You have to learn. Some kids just learn as they go, others learn because of the sports they are doing as kids, and some are just lucky and actually aren't running correctly but are fast enough that no one questions them. (Those kids later turn out less lucky because they get injured or gain some weight and then they are out of sports and running forever, thinking that it is something you're born with and then lose.)
This epiphany really made me question what is the POINT of school PE teachers then if they don't teach you these things? They are either there just to torture you or as babysitters with some specialty in keeping you busy with sport games rather than arts and crafts.
I wish this book had existed when I first started to want to learn about running because it is ALL in here. This book is funny and informative and gives you a great start to learning about how to run, because yes, it is something you can learn.
As a kid I was never a runner. I got winded too quickly. I overheat easily. I was too big, had too many extra pounds and was often light headed as well. I never completed the dreaded gym class mile except once, and that was outside the 20 min time limit and my teacher refused to mark it down and I got in trouble for coming in off the field late.
So. I decided in my adulthood to become a runner (at first only to prove that gym teacher wrong. Suck it, Ms. Bishop!) I think the first book I read was Born to Run. It was good but hardly gave me any pointers except maybe I should run barefoot. (This is not recommended as a beginner runner who has never run before).
I then started watching youtube videos and slowly figured out that there were instruction videos on EVERYTHING related to running - how to breathe, what kind of stride to have, how to achieve optimal heel strike, nutrition, etc. So it turns out, you aren't BORN knowing how to run. You have to learn. Some kids just learn as they go, others learn because of the sports they are doing as kids, and some are just lucky and actually aren't running correctly but are fast enough that no one questions them. (Those kids later turn out less lucky because they get injured or gain some weight and then they are out of sports and running forever, thinking that it is something you're born with and then lose.)
This epiphany really made me question what is the POINT of school PE teachers then if they don't teach you these things? They are either there just to torture you or as babysitters with some specialty in keeping you busy with sport games rather than arts and crafts.
I wish this book had existed when I first started to want to learn about running because it is ALL in here. This book is funny and informative and gives you a great start to learning about how to run, because yes, it is something you can learn.
January 14, 2024
I’ve been following Martinus Evans on Instagram for quite some time now, and I really do need to purchase one of his Slow AF Run Club turtle shirts! I really didn’t need to read about the basics of getting into running, but some of his pointers were a good refresher. What I truly loved about this book was his journey of marathon running, and the many pitfalls he experienced while trying to find his people...not to mention the unwanted commentary from passersby. I, personally, can relate to that particular struggle!!! I just wanted to hug him when he shared his experiences of “running while Black.” It’s heartbreaking to think of the crap he had to endure while just running in the neighborhood—and that he strategically ran with a little dog and wore a shirt emblazoned with cute turtles so people would find him less threatening. Wow...what a world we live in.! I also appreciate him calling out the running groups that aren’t inclusive to runners with larger bodies. Again, relatable!!! It’s wonderful he poured all of these experiences into something amazing: an all-inclusive virtual run club that rolls out the welcome mat for people of all shapes and sizes and fitness levels. YES! This is such a feel-good book with some fantastic pointers for new and seasoned runners—or anyone who enjoys an inspiring story told by a seasoned marathon runner!
May 31, 2025
In anticipation of a hip replacement I imagine myself running. This man wrote a book with a target market in mind. The cover says "for anyone who wants to run," but it's really more like "...and was afraid to try." If you're overweight, or have been told by your friends and family that you look like a hippo while you lumber along, this is the book for you. Martinus is encouraging, and not in a condescending way. He's eager to share that if he did it, so can you. This guy runs marathons. I was training for a half marathon when last June I started having too much pain in my hip to run at all, and now as I stride away on the elliptical feeling sorry for myself every time I see runners gliding past like gazelles I can hardly believe how much weight I've gained! This book has practical tips for the larger runner. We CAN do it. I am looking forward to being able to try.
January 28, 2024
Some good tips for running especially for beginners, like me, and although entertaining, I don’t believe a lot of the author’s personal stories. Every time he was in a position of feeling uncomfortable or being doubted, the antagonist always yells, “hey big man/guy!” I really can’t believe anyone in the athletic community would be this rude and that this happened let alone multiple times from different people. I do feel motivated to go run and I did laugh at some parts of the book. I would recommend new runners to read this book.
November 20, 2024
Absolutely loved this! I listened to the audible version on one of my long runs and it was absolutely perfect! Great reminders on running as well as some good stories blended in to help keep me preoccupied from the physical exertion. If you’re a runner, especially a slow AF runner, you will LOVE this book!
April 17, 2025
Lots of great tips and info in this book, especially for beginning runners. Martinius’ stories are inspirational, and hearing him read the book is like having a conversation with a friend. His humor, enthusiasm, and good attitude are pervasive in the book and he’s really encouraging. There are online resources available too, but you have to create an account to access them, which I didn’t do.
January 3, 2024
This book... This book should be the standard and required reading for anyone thinking they want to get into running. Not only is Martinus's story hella relatable, it's a kick to the rear to get moving. The lessons given are invaluable for runners of all speeds and stages.
June 25, 2024
I wish I had started this book years ago when I first running distance. It’s everything someone needs when they’re embarking on their first few distance runs. Thank you, Martinus, for this lovely book with words of wisdom!!
January 18, 2025
Listening to this was like getting a high five, a hug and a kick from Martinus. So much real talk! So encouraging for a super slow AF runner like me. Just what I needed to keep lacing up my running shoes!
September 13, 2025
I related to some of the events in Mr. Evans life: Finishing a run to find out they had run out of water before I had crossed the finish line, being asked to move over to the side-walk because I was too slow, feeling harrassed for not being fast enough. It was good to hear that I am not alone.
December 22, 2023
I really like the approach and spirit of this handy guide!
January 8, 2024
I love this running philosophy.
Read
January 23, 2024Best suited for beginners, I think, though the focus he brings to it inclusion in the running world is critical for all of us.
February 13, 2024
good perspective
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 29, 2024
Great book if you are just starting out.
May 19, 2024
A fun informed book from someone who has put in the miles and has the street cred to advise on being a runner.
July 12, 2024
This book was amazing! The best running companion I've ever gotten my hands on - especially for non traditional runners.
March 1, 2025
Very approachable, digestible, motivational advice and funny story telling! A great read. I started running!
May 5, 2025
good, practical advice making running accessible to everyone.
June 13, 2025
This was filled with great information and very inspirational.
July 1, 2025
I am not interested in becoming a runner but I do enjoy long walks and I appreciated the motivation this book provides. There are many good tips to runners of all shapes, sizes, physical ability, and fitness level. I highly recommend for anyone wanting to work on their cardiovascular fitness.
December 18, 2025
This book made me want to take up running! Evans' audio makes it sound like you're having a discussion with a friend. Very accessible. Loved it.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews