Building a Better Runner: Science-Based Training for Peak Performance

by Terry Hamlin, Bill Rodgers (Foreword)

Building A Better Runner is your ultimate guide to distance running. Whether you are a teenager who enjoys running the mile, a hobby runner who wants to be fitter and faster, or a high-level athlete aiming for Olympic gold, this book has training tips and plans to suit your needs. There is a specific way that the body improves. If the right phases of training are used at the right times, then an athlete (from a beginner or hobby runner to an elite, high-level runner) can benefit from this scheduling. By using a scientific method developed by author and runner Terry Hamlin, this book utilizes physiology, biochemistry, and periods of stress and recovery to create the most effective program for runners looking to better themselves athletically. Hamlin wants runners to understand how the body works on a kinetic and cellular level. Additionally, he hopes to help runners understand that it’s possible to remove your frustration with not improving and make the sport of running an exciting, lifelong pursuit. Are you ready to run the distance?

199 pages, Paperback

Published September 3, 2019

Reviews

[Nathan · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars. Totally changes the game on how I’m approaching running. Not *too* technical in terms of programming, but enough to give you an idea of the method behind the process. Felt like I flew through this, and certainly could benefit from several rereads. Great resource to have on hand, regardless of your running experience or ability.

You’re given great tools to deflect injury, (hopefully) enhance your enjoyment of running and, if it’s your goal, success in competition.

Very enlightening book. Many thanks to NetGalley and Vertel Publishing for the advance read.

[Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book and found it very informative. I loved the science based program that helps any runner improve their abilities. My biggest issue was that it is very much aimed at those who have the time and desire to run very long amounts daily, like hours. While I really enjoy running and would do so for hours before having children, that isn't currently in the cards at the moment. While I'm embracing this season of life, I do enjoy reading about running and learning more. I can apply concepts from this book despite not being able to run 100 or even 50 miles a week. It would have been neat to have plans for those who are more time pressed with only spare half hours here and there, however, as that likely isn't the target audience, I let it slide and have mainly just focused on the philosophy of building endurance, then strength, going slow to avoid injury, and being more intentional about technique, form, and strengthing the body on a cellular level while checking my lifestyle habits to keep my body healthy and to help ensure it is ready for more running when I do have the time to do so again. For anyone training for a marathon or with time and desire to become a great runner, this is definitely the book for you!

[Sandy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm a hobby runner who has started and stopped running multiple times over the last few years. I picked up this book because I have a tendency to overtrain at the beginning and wear myself out. This book provides a great way to balance my workouts so that I'm not only running more efficiently but also without injury. Due to my current fitness level, I needed to cut the mileage for the first phase in half to start, but everything was so clearly explained that it was easy to do. Written in a very clear, concise, friendly tone. There was just enough science explained to understand why certain methods were being recommended but no so much that you get bogged down in the physiological details.

[Lauren · Rating 4 out of 5]

The background, history, and fundamentals within this book are awesome. Seth and I met Terry Hamlin at the 2019 Cooper River Bridge Run and bought this book of his there. He's a wonderful man with an incredible story. As a hobby runner who, at my very best, can run a 23:30 5K, some of this material is over my head. I do not have the capacity to run 60-100 miles per week (but those who do are my heroes, seriously!). However, the ideas that Terry presents and the information itself is extremely well put together, and he writes it in a readable, approachable way.

[Ryan Barrett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lots of great info in this book about how to institute a longer term training strategy with life long running goals. More of a guide to training and racing than a one size fits all, week by week training plan. Not for those looking for a quick 8 week couch-to-race program, but if you want to be a better runner this is for you. Especially liked the year-round approach as I’ve long wondered what to do next after a goal race was complete.

[Joyce · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m a long distance runner.Few marathons and numerous half’s under my belt.I thought I knew it all.Until I read this book.Extremely detailed physiological whys and what’s of the runners human body. Honestly think every runner needs this book.Its not just a run planner it explains why you need that particular run.’Thankyou Netgalley for this ARC.

[Melinda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great, thorough training plan. For an on and off again runner, I found this easy to understand and follow. Information on improving your fitness level, avoiding injury and enjoying the experience at your fingertips. Complete with charts to assist in your understanding and boost your knowledge.

[D. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Neither too technical nor condescending, this is a running book that surpasses running books. It's one of the best books I've read and have tonnes of tips that I hadn't taken on board before. I've got a pile of ideas to try, thanks to this book.