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This Is About Running. This Is Not About Running.: Lessons for Between and Beyond the Start and Finish Line – A Philosophy on Resilience, Self-Trust, and Moving Forward
From Nike Running’s Global Head Coach Chris Bennett comes a bold, welcoming book for runners, non-runners, and everyone in between. Rooted in the coaching philosophy that has helped millions take their first steps forward, it’s about finding the courage to cross the starting lines in your life.
This Is About Running. This Is Not About Running. is a deeply motivating, funny, and unexpectedly moving book about what happens when we dare to step up to the starting lines in our lives. Drawing on the philosophy that has inspired millions around the world, Coach Bennett reframes running not as a test of speed, distance, or competition—but as a practice in showing up, moving forward, and discovering what’s possible when you take a chance on yourself.
With his signature mix of positivity, pop-culture wisdom, and back-to-basics insight, Bennett strips away the pressure that keeps so many people stuck. Instead, he offers a refreshing you don’t have to be fast, fit, or fearless to be a runner. You just have to start. And once you do, running has a way of teaching you about far more than about resilience, confidence, self-trust, and the quiet power of momentum.
Whether you’re lacing up for the first time, returning after years away, or simply looking for a new way to think about progress, this book is a reminder that forward is forward, and that something extraordinary can happen when you take that first step.
Because the best running isn’t really about running at all.
It’s about life.
This Is About Running. This Is Not About Running. is a deeply motivating, funny, and unexpectedly moving book about what happens when we dare to step up to the starting lines in our lives. Drawing on the philosophy that has inspired millions around the world, Coach Bennett reframes running not as a test of speed, distance, or competition—but as a practice in showing up, moving forward, and discovering what’s possible when you take a chance on yourself.
With his signature mix of positivity, pop-culture wisdom, and back-to-basics insight, Bennett strips away the pressure that keeps so many people stuck. Instead, he offers a refreshing you don’t have to be fast, fit, or fearless to be a runner. You just have to start. And once you do, running has a way of teaching you about far more than about resilience, confidence, self-trust, and the quiet power of momentum.
Whether you’re lacing up for the first time, returning after years away, or simply looking for a new way to think about progress, this book is a reminder that forward is forward, and that something extraordinary can happen when you take that first step.
Because the best running isn’t really about running at all.
It’s about life.
240 pages, Hardcover
Published September 1, 2026
About the author
Chris Bennett
86 books66 followersCoach Bennett is a serious motivator and whimsical moustache curator. A beloved voice of Nike Run Club's popular app, he writes and runs in Portland, Oregon. You might run into him there - not far from a pepperoni pizza.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 201 reviews
September 4, 2026
If Coach Bennett starts a cult, I will be the first one to sign up. This is not even a joke.
I’ve done so many of the guided runs with him within the Nike app and I finally met him this year in Copenhagen and I almost cried. This person truly is a gem, a great person that I really love (i know he does not know me and this is weird, but what can I do?).
The book was in a way the compilation of his guided runs and I found it very inspiring. This is not a technical running book, but it is about how to be a runner or how to unlock that you are a runner.
People, you better not give my Coach Bennett 1 star, I’m watching the ratings!
Thank you Coach Bennett for the guided runs, for the inspiration and for this book.
I’ve done so many of the guided runs with him within the Nike app and I finally met him this year in Copenhagen and I almost cried. This person truly is a gem, a great person that I really love (i know he does not know me and this is weird, but what can I do?).
The book was in a way the compilation of his guided runs and I found it very inspiring. This is not a technical running book, but it is about how to be a runner or how to unlock that you are a runner.
People, you better not give my Coach Bennett 1 star, I’m watching the ratings!
Thank you Coach Bennett for the guided runs, for the inspiration and for this book.
September 9, 2026
Coach Bennett is indeed still one of my favorite people I’ve never met.
This book, like his guided runs, is 40% running tips and 60% life advice, and I absolutely love the balance. Love the title. Love the book. Love the man. Love the sport.
This book, like his guided runs, is 40% running tips and 60% life advice, and I absolutely love the balance. Love the title. Love the book. Love the man. Love the sport.
September 12, 2026
Love Coach Bennett but this is pretty one-note. He leans heavily on the “let’s look at a dictionary definition of…” format to try to coach you into a positive headspace about your running.
Maybe I misunderstood what this book was going in - I thought there would be more practical training tips and mental strategies to implement. Instead, it’s effectively 200 pages of vague positivity with the odd personal anecdote thrown in for good measure.
I still love CB, so I feel rotten giving this such a low star rating, but it was all a bit same-y for me.
Maybe I misunderstood what this book was going in - I thought there would be more practical training tips and mental strategies to implement. Instead, it’s effectively 200 pages of vague positivity with the odd personal anecdote thrown in for good measure.
I still love CB, so I feel rotten giving this such a low star rating, but it was all a bit same-y for me.
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July 7, 2026This Is About Running. This Is Not About Running. is one of those rare books that uses a specific subject to illuminate something far more universal. While Chris Bennett draws from the world of running, the lessons extend well beyond the road or the trail. At its core, this is a thoughtful and inspiring meditation on resilience, self-belief, and the courage to begin.
One of the book’s greatest strengths is its accessibility. Bennett removes the intimidation that often surrounds running and replaces it with an invitation: you do not have to be fast, experienced, or even confident to take the first step. That philosophy makes the book just as meaningful for non-runners as it is for seasoned athletes.
What resonates most is the emphasis on progress over perfection. Bennett reframes success as the simple act of showing up, reminding readers that meaningful change rarely comes through dramatic leaps but through consistent, intentional forward movement. It is a message that applies equally to careers, relationships, personal growth, and everyday life.
The writing is warm, conversational, and encouraging without becoming overly sentimental. Humor, personal insight, and practical wisdom combine to create a reading experience that feels like receiving advice from a trusted coach who genuinely believes in your potential. Rather than relying on motivational clichés, Bennett offers a perspective grounded in self-trust and realistic optimism.
I also appreciate how the book celebrates the process instead of the outcome. By shifting attention away from finish lines and toward the value of simply beginning, it encourages readers to embrace challenges with curiosity rather than fear. That subtle change in mindset has the power to transform far more than a running routine.
Ultimately, This Is About Running. This Is Not About Running. is less about athletic performance than about living with intention. It reminds us that every meaningful journey begins with a single decision to move forward, however imperfectly.
Whether you're an experienced runner, someone considering their very first jog, or simply navigating a new chapter in life, this uplifting and thoughtful book offers encouragement that extends far beyond the finish line.
One of the book’s greatest strengths is its accessibility. Bennett removes the intimidation that often surrounds running and replaces it with an invitation: you do not have to be fast, experienced, or even confident to take the first step. That philosophy makes the book just as meaningful for non-runners as it is for seasoned athletes.
What resonates most is the emphasis on progress over perfection. Bennett reframes success as the simple act of showing up, reminding readers that meaningful change rarely comes through dramatic leaps but through consistent, intentional forward movement. It is a message that applies equally to careers, relationships, personal growth, and everyday life.
The writing is warm, conversational, and encouraging without becoming overly sentimental. Humor, personal insight, and practical wisdom combine to create a reading experience that feels like receiving advice from a trusted coach who genuinely believes in your potential. Rather than relying on motivational clichés, Bennett offers a perspective grounded in self-trust and realistic optimism.
I also appreciate how the book celebrates the process instead of the outcome. By shifting attention away from finish lines and toward the value of simply beginning, it encourages readers to embrace challenges with curiosity rather than fear. That subtle change in mindset has the power to transform far more than a running routine.
Ultimately, This Is About Running. This Is Not About Running. is less about athletic performance than about living with intention. It reminds us that every meaningful journey begins with a single decision to move forward, however imperfectly.
Whether you're an experienced runner, someone considering their very first jog, or simply navigating a new chapter in life, this uplifting and thoughtful book offers encouragement that extends far beyond the finish line.
September 26, 2026
Coach Bennett has narrated hours and hours of runs for me over the years, and this book felt like exactly that- a really great run. His voice was so strong in this book, it felt like he was in my ears even though I read it on paper.
Coach B has helped me to get to many starting lines; from the 10K to the marathon. Such an enjoyable collection of ramblings. The only thing missing was Daniel the Engineer.
Coach B has helped me to get to many starting lines; from the 10K to the marathon. Such an enjoyable collection of ramblings. The only thing missing was Daniel the Engineer.
September 14, 2026
I love Coach Bennett and Nike Run Club but for me there was not really anything in this book that I did not already gain from listening to the guided runs. The writing feels like Nike just collected his scripts and grouped them loosely together into a larger book.
The parts I enjoyed most were the autobiographical tidbits that were few and scattered between. If there were more of these I think I would have had a better time. In all honesty this probably is a really great book for people new to running or maybe those who have not listened to the guided runs. Benett’s style is earnest and heart warming (if you can get past the sheer amount of definitions thrown at you). His passion helps to lift what was a repetitive style at times.
In short good but nothing new from CB. Your mileage may vary.
The parts I enjoyed most were the autobiographical tidbits that were few and scattered between. If there were more of these I think I would have had a better time. In all honesty this probably is a really great book for people new to running or maybe those who have not listened to the guided runs. Benett’s style is earnest and heart warming (if you can get past the sheer amount of definitions thrown at you). His passion helps to lift what was a repetitive style at times.
In short good but nothing new from CB. Your mileage may vary.
October 16, 2026
The first sentence of the acknowledgments is: “It didn’t take me long to type out this book.” Trust me, sir, we can tell. This was so bad. Boring, corny, repetitive. Easily the worst book about running I have ever read and stands in sharp contrast to all the amazing running memoirs I read this summer. The fact that I finished this book at all is a measure of how stubborn I can be. The author’s goal is to motivate people to start and keep running so, in fairness to him, I am really not the target audience here
September 27, 2026
I was lucky enough to have Mr. Bennett as one of my coaches in high school. Reading this book made me feel like I was back at the track house or in the Round Barn, listening to his stories and life lessons. For those of you who didn’t get to experience this wit and wisdom in person for four years, this book is the next best thing.
September 27, 2026
Coach Bennett was the reason I had the courage to begin & complete my first run 6 years ago and I am forever grateful for this sport. Over the years I ran happy, I ran broken, I ran excited, I ran with tears, & through important transitional periods in my life. This book reinforces all the lessons I’ve learned along the way & introduces a bunch of beautiful ones. Definitely coming back to it. ♡
September 14, 2026
I love Coach Bennett. His guided runs have been with me on every. single. run. for many years, and they got me through some really rough times, when I couldn’t dance anymore and running was the only thing that made me feel alive. When Coach Bennett tells me “you’re a rockstar” or “you’re a badass”, I actually (kind of, sometimes) believe him. With all that said, I knew I’d love this book before I’d ever read a single word.
Basically, the book weaves the essence of his guided runs into his personal story as a runner, teacher and coach. The final few chapters made me really emotional (in a good way), and, in a way, hopeful.
And now that I’ve listened to the audiobook (seriously, for the full experience, you need to hear Coach Bennett himself narrate the book himself!), I can’t wait for my printed copy to arrive. Thank you, Coach!
Basically, the book weaves the essence of his guided runs into his personal story as a runner, teacher and coach. The final few chapters made me really emotional (in a good way), and, in a way, hopeful.
And now that I’ve listened to the audiobook (seriously, for the full experience, you need to hear Coach Bennett himself narrate the book himself!), I can’t wait for my printed copy to arrive. Thank you, Coach!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 4, 2026
Having run "against" Coach Bennett - at least in the same state at the same time - and coached against him - again at least in the same state at the same time, this book is truly the words of an amazing "coach" and an amazing man. Whether you are a life long runner, a new runner, a wanna start runner, or even think running is for weirdos this book is for you. Because while it is about running...as the title states...it is also not about running.
September 30, 2026
I love Coach Bennett because he makes running feel approachable and welcoming. As the title proves true, so much of his stellar advice IS about running, and so much of it is NOT about running.
I started listening to Coach B’s guided runs when I first started running in my late 20s. His "Grateful Run" and "Thank You Run" were on constant repeat when I got back into running after having my son too!
I’m lucky enough to live in Tracktown, USA, and have actually met Coach Bennett in person. Yes, I did tell him I sucked at running, and he proceeded to run right next to me for a whole mile. If you’re wondering whether he’s as great in person as he is on the guided runs or in this book - I can confirm he’s even better.
I read the entire book and could hear his signature voice and cadence on every page. I have a 6-hour race coming up in three weeks, and this was the exact encouragement I needed.
Thank you, Coach Bennett 🤗
I started listening to Coach B’s guided runs when I first started running in my late 20s. His "Grateful Run" and "Thank You Run" were on constant repeat when I got back into running after having my son too!
I’m lucky enough to live in Tracktown, USA, and have actually met Coach Bennett in person. Yes, I did tell him I sucked at running, and he proceeded to run right next to me for a whole mile. If you’re wondering whether he’s as great in person as he is on the guided runs or in this book - I can confirm he’s even better.
I read the entire book and could hear his signature voice and cadence on every page. I have a 6-hour race coming up in three weeks, and this was the exact encouragement I needed.
Thank you, Coach Bennett 🤗
October 5, 2026
For those who love Coach Bennett for his wit, positive high energy, vocabulary lessons, and motivational speeches on the Nike Run App and Coach Bennett Podcast, you will love this book!
The book highlights how anyone can be a runner, encourages you to celebrate the small wins outside of just the data, and exploring how running can help anyone become a better person by connecting it to other parts of life.
Take the book for what it is and how it’s structured much like his training guides on the app and podcast. Each chapter focuses on a different part of running, from styles and types of running to mindset and training, while maintaining that anyone can be a runner.
This book came at a perfect time as I wrapped up my training cycle for my first full marathon!
The book highlights how anyone can be a runner, encourages you to celebrate the small wins outside of just the data, and exploring how running can help anyone become a better person by connecting it to other parts of life.
Take the book for what it is and how it’s structured much like his training guides on the app and podcast. Each chapter focuses on a different part of running, from styles and types of running to mindset and training, while maintaining that anyone can be a runner.
This book came at a perfect time as I wrapped up my training cycle for my first full marathon!
September 25, 2026
I ran my first half marathon following the coaching of Coach Bennett with the Nike Run Club guided runs. I’ve listened to his podcast and read his Substack for years. His voice and content are so wholesome, motivating, down to earth, and refreshing. I knew as soon as I saw he had a book coming out I needed to listen to it, and I’m so glad I did! His content truly is about running, and not about running, and I will be recommending it to everyone (runners and runners who don’t currently run). I will be buying a physical copy of this book as well since there are many quotes I want to come back to that were hard to capture on audio, but 10/10 can’t recommend this book enough!
Favorite quote: “You’re going to have regrets if you’re courageous enough to live a life fully lived”
Favorite quote: “You’re going to have regrets if you’re courageous enough to live a life fully lived”
October 26, 2026
Coach Bennett is so special and this really has shifted my framework on approaching running! The beautiful struggle! You can do hard things!
September 28, 2026
Love Coach Bennett. Feeling inspired
September 5, 2026
The Ted Lasso of run coaching.
Coach Bennett’s philosophy around running is what made running finally click for me 4-5 years ago. Lots of retreaded ground here if you’ve heard his Nike run workouts, but good reminders.
Coach Bennett’s philosophy around running is what made running finally click for me 4-5 years ago. Lots of retreaded ground here if you’ve heard his Nike run workouts, but good reminders.
September 30, 2026
Too saccharine for me but will definitely be a motivation to others.
September 1, 2026
I listened to the audiobook today and I think I already knew that it was going to be good because I've followed the author on social media and done some of his guided runs in the Nike Run Club app. What I genuinely didn't realize though, was just how much it was going to speak to me in so many ways. "This is about Running..." I'm a runner, but I'm also a runner dealing with injury right now, and this book spoke directly to so many doubts and hesitations that I've been feeling as I deal with my recovery and not being able to run the way I want to.
There's another level to everything in this book though, and "This is Not About Running" holds true for this in so many ways. How do we deal with setbacks, with plans not going the way we want, with feeling stuck in life, with not knowing how to even start something, let alone finish it? One part that got to me in such a good way was the chapter titled "Dear Doubt", and this part especially, "Listen up now, Doubt. You need to know that I'll always be strong enough to try. I'll always be good enough to get better." There's more in that chapter that is absolutely spot on, but the reminder that it's okay to not get things right all the time, but the biggest thing is that we keep on getting back up and trying again. Starting something so that we can find our next starting line.
I might be rambling a bit right now, but please do yourself a favor and read this. Whether you're a runner or not, there's something in here for every single person who reads it and I hope that if you do read it, that just like me, it'll somehow be exactly what you needed to hear.
There's another level to everything in this book though, and "This is Not About Running" holds true for this in so many ways. How do we deal with setbacks, with plans not going the way we want, with feeling stuck in life, with not knowing how to even start something, let alone finish it? One part that got to me in such a good way was the chapter titled "Dear Doubt", and this part especially, "Listen up now, Doubt. You need to know that I'll always be strong enough to try. I'll always be good enough to get better." There's more in that chapter that is absolutely spot on, but the reminder that it's okay to not get things right all the time, but the biggest thing is that we keep on getting back up and trying again. Starting something so that we can find our next starting line.
I might be rambling a bit right now, but please do yourself a favor and read this. Whether you're a runner or not, there's something in here for every single person who reads it and I hope that if you do read it, that just like me, it'll somehow be exactly what you needed to hear.
September 5, 2026
I have been a follower of Coach Bennett for years, and I really loved this book. While many of his lessons and messages will be familiar to anyone who has listened to his guided runs or podcasts, there was something about reading them on the page that made them hit differently.
What I appreciate most about Coach Bennett is that he is so authentically himself. Maybe it’s a Jersey thing, LOL, but there’s a genuineness to the way he communicates that has always resonated with me. Over the years, I’ve realized that his messages don’t really change—and that’s kind of the point. Sometimes we don’t need a brand-new lesson. We just need to be reminded of the lessons we already know but tend to forget.
And despite the title, this really isn’t just about running. I finished this book feeling like a better athlete, but also a better mother, wife, friend, sister, and person. Coach Bennett has a way of using running to talk about so much more: showing up, giving yourself grace, being present, embracing where you are, and continuing to move forward.
If you’ve followed Coach Bennett for years, this book feels like spending more time with an old friend. And if you haven’t, it’s a pretty great introduction to why so many of us keep coming back to his words.
What I appreciate most about Coach Bennett is that he is so authentically himself. Maybe it’s a Jersey thing, LOL, but there’s a genuineness to the way he communicates that has always resonated with me. Over the years, I’ve realized that his messages don’t really change—and that’s kind of the point. Sometimes we don’t need a brand-new lesson. We just need to be reminded of the lessons we already know but tend to forget.
And despite the title, this really isn’t just about running. I finished this book feeling like a better athlete, but also a better mother, wife, friend, sister, and person. Coach Bennett has a way of using running to talk about so much more: showing up, giving yourself grace, being present, embracing where you are, and continuing to move forward.
If you’ve followed Coach Bennett for years, this book feels like spending more time with an old friend. And if you haven’t, it’s a pretty great introduction to why so many of us keep coming back to his words.
October 5, 2026
Can't recommend this book enough - got me out of my reading AND running slump
September 6, 2026
I highly recommend the audiobook! I had it preordered on Audible and was counting down the days for its arrival! If you enjoy Coach Bennett’s Nike guided runs (who doesn’t?) then this book or audiobook is for you! I will probably buy the hard copy as well since I’m such a huge fan of Coach B! The book is for anyone who has even thought of running and everyone is a runner. It doesn’t matter the pace or distance! This book is so inspiring and just what I needed as we enter into a new season. Thank you Coach Bennett for inspiring so many people to make it to the starting line!
October 4, 2026
Coach Bennett has been called the Ted Lasso of running...but I would argue he is far better because he is not a fictional character. He is the realest of real deals! I had the distinct privilege of doing a group coaching program (shout out Best Runner Ever) with the Coaches Bennett and it changed how I view running and myself. I pre ordered this book as soon as I knew it existed and upon receiving it in the mail I wondered what I had been thinking because CLEARLY I needed to listen to this on audio! After a multitude of guided runs, podcast episodes and live coaching sessions, I have come to truly enjoy hearing from Coach Bennett and his calm and encouraging delivery. I have been on a bit of a running hiatus and that did not interfere at all with my enjoyment of this book. Well done, Coach!
October 6, 2026
Let me start by saying that Coach Bennett changed my life. A year and a half ago I got on a starting line like many times before with no confidence, no self love and no idea if I would be back or end up abandoning just like I always did. That first run with Chris Bennett on my headphones changed me because his words made me believe that yes. I could do it. I could be a runner. I was a runner, and what I was doing was bad ass. And so I got on many more starting lines and I haven’t stoped. I would not have done that without his words. He has accompanied me in hundreds of miles now.
This book truly is a continuation and a reflection of who Chris is and what he wants to teach us and it was a great listen on my runs for the past couple of weeks. I specially like about the writing/narrating style that it’s accessible, it will distract you when you hit a wall and there are always little nuggets of wisdom behind every story, because after all, this is about running but it is not about running.
This book truly is a continuation and a reflection of who Chris is and what he wants to teach us and it was a great listen on my runs for the past couple of weeks. I specially like about the writing/narrating style that it’s accessible, it will distract you when you hit a wall and there are always little nuggets of wisdom behind every story, because after all, this is about running but it is not about running.
September 18, 2026
Coach Bennett’s guided runs got me through my early running days six years ago, and they’re one of the main reasons I never stopped running, and don’t plan to.
He has a way of making you fall in love with running from the very first word, but you’ll also carry his words with you long after the run is over, because this is about running, but this is also not about running!
The book is entertaining, inspiring, and full of the kind of wisdom that sticks with you. I had to stop the audiobook multiple times to jot down little gems of wisdom that I know I’ll like to come back to in the future.
My only complaint is that I wish it were longer :)
He has a way of making you fall in love with running from the very first word, but you’ll also carry his words with you long after the run is over, because this is about running, but this is also not about running!
The book is entertaining, inspiring, and full of the kind of wisdom that sticks with you. I had to stop the audiobook multiple times to jot down little gems of wisdom that I know I’ll like to come back to in the future.
My only complaint is that I wish it were longer :)
September 26, 2026
Really enjoyed this book. Very lighted and easy. Loved that it was read by author.
I’m not sure where this book was recommended. Very glad I read it now. Been training for my first 5K. So many great applications from running real life (like the title says). Loved the chapter on struggles (towards end of book) and also comparing finish lines to starting lines.
May definitely read again in book form to be able to take notes and highlights.
I’m not sure where this book was recommended. Very glad I read it now. Been training for my first 5K. So many great applications from running real life (like the title says). Loved the chapter on struggles (towards end of book) and also comparing finish lines to starting lines.
May definitely read again in book form to be able to take notes and highlights.
October 3, 2026
I really loved this. Part memoir, part life advice, part actual practical running tips. I was predisposed to like anything by Coach Bennett anyway, but this was honestly better than even I would’ve expected. It was moving, evocative, and funny. Thank you, Coach Bennett, for inspiring and motivating. What a gift to the sport of running.
September 20, 2026
One thing I appreciated about this book was that it was pretty down-to-earth. Elite runners can feel like they’re in another world from us average runners, but this had enough wisdom in it to reach everyone.
October 4, 2026
I’ve looked forward to reading this book since I first started running with Coach Bennett in my ears 7 years ago. This book didn’t exist then, and I’m so glad it’s out there in the world now.
This book reminded me why I fell in love with running in the first place. This book also provided fresh inspiration to cross more starting lines. Thank you Coach Bennett for sharing your advice and wisdom and a little more about yourself. I rarely read the same book twice, but this already feels like a book I would enjoy going back to again in the future.
This book reminded me why I fell in love with running in the first place. This book also provided fresh inspiration to cross more starting lines. Thank you Coach Bennett for sharing your advice and wisdom and a little more about yourself. I rarely read the same book twice, but this already feels like a book I would enjoy going back to again in the future.
October 16, 2026
I’ve been a long time listener of Coach Bennett’s podcast and his Nike Guided Runs. I also had the opportunity to meet him at meet and greet the coach/author. Reading the book is as if he’s talking to me, the readers..
Displaying 1 - 30 of 201 reviews