This book is for just about anyone who wants to run/walk or walk a 10-miler, a half marathon or a marathon. Jeff includes training schedules for beginners and veterans, information on nutrition, issues for the mature exerciser, motivation and recovery plus some new concepts: Magic Mile, shorter long runs between the really long weekend sessions. Includes a special chapter on Donna Hicken, breast cancer survivor and originator of the Breast Cancer Half Marathon & Marathon (inaugural event on February 17, 2008) in Jacksonville, Florida.
I'm training for a half marathon using this book though a running group. I like his methods and what he says makes a lot of sense. However, keeping it away from 5 star status is that it combines the half and marathon too much - maybe I will like it better when I start marathon training. It also references his other books almost too much. I can appreciate the fact he doesn't repeat himself, but then I have to either find at the library or purchase his other books. Those are my only complains - great tips to make stronger runners.
I'm an over 50 runner and this book gave me some new insights to think about. I plan on incorporating this program into my running schedule, because if God blesses me to get to my 70's or higher I still want to be a runner. I'm one of those runners who doesn't want to walk but I do like the idea of shuffling in between my runs.
I wasn't sure how I was going to complete my first half marathon until I read this book. I was able to do the run/walk method and maintain a consistent pace throughout the race, with a time less than I had hoped for.