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The Runner's Guide to the Meaning of Life
"As runners, we all go through many transitions-- transitions that closely mimic the larger changes we experience in a lifetime. First, we try to run faster. Then we try to run harder. Then we learn to accept ourselves and our limitations, and at last, we can appreciate the true joy and meaning of running."
As its opening pages reveal, The Runner's Guide to the Meaning of Life is not merely about running. It is about living-- to your fullest potential. Amby Burfoot, one of running's wisest voices, here presents 15 essential life lessons about passion, courage, materialism, failure, regeneration, and more, all learned from experience during more than 35 years of running. In this book, Amby discusses the essential traits of a runner-- traits that also are essential for all people wishing to reach their long-term goals. He discusses the writings, music, and quotes that have inspired him throughout his long career. Most important, he explains that winners are not those who cross the finish line first, but rather those who are able to discover more about themselves with every step.
The Runner's Guide to the Meaning of Life is one in a series of Daybreak books that provide life lessons and spiritual perspectives from the vantage point of different occupations and passions.
As its opening pages reveal, The Runner's Guide to the Meaning of Life is not merely about running. It is about living-- to your fullest potential. Amby Burfoot, one of running's wisest voices, here presents 15 essential life lessons about passion, courage, materialism, failure, regeneration, and more, all learned from experience during more than 35 years of running. In this book, Amby discusses the essential traits of a runner-- traits that also are essential for all people wishing to reach their long-term goals. He discusses the writings, music, and quotes that have inspired him throughout his long career. Most important, he explains that winners are not those who cross the finish line first, but rather those who are able to discover more about themselves with every step.
The Runner's Guide to the Meaning of Life is one in a series of Daybreak books that provide life lessons and spiritual perspectives from the vantage point of different occupations and passions.
160 pages, Hardcover
First published April 4, 2000
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1363 people want to read
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July 25, 2008
Actually made me want to start running. Very inspiring. And then I ran. And then I stopped. But I can't blame the book for that.
July 9, 2011
Amby Burfoot is a long-time runner and editor of Runner's World. This book was a short, fun read. Each chapter's goal is to cover a different topic, (example: courage), and how running has helped with that life lesson. Despite being an excellent runner, he met with some failures. He was unable to get into the Olympics twice, and "I learned that losing isn't contagious. It's not a fatal condition, and it's not forever. It's more like a cold that makes you miserable for a week but then goes away, and quickly discovered that my 10-year Olympic quest hadn't taught me failure. Indeed, the discipline and training goal setting had prepared me for success in other areas." Later in the book, "Success comes from within. It comes from consistent dedication to core principles and values." The book isn't perfect, it's choppy and at times random, but I really enjoyed reading it and found inspiration in many parts of the book.
February 16, 2023
“The Runner’s Guide to the meaning of life” is a nonfiction book written by Amby Burfoot, winner of the 1968 Boston Marathon and executive editor of “Runner’s World” magazine since 1985.
The book consists of acknowledgments followed by fifteen chapters which are referred to as lessons. In addition to the fifteen lessons, Burfoot provides the reader with six insights he’s discovered during thirty-five years of running.
Lesson one focuses on why run and Burfoot shares what his coach taught him about the qualities of a runner which include not giving up and how running is the only sport that you don’t need skill to do. According to Burfoot through running, the mind/body connection is re-established and ideas are better able to flow freely without thinking about other things.
Lesson two focuses on how to create a life of continually new beginnings. In this lesson, Burfoot shares with the reader his unexpected start to running through his jayvee basketball team in high school. In addition, Burfoot expresses the excitement of being at a starting line in sport and in life and how although starting anything in life is scary in the beginning, over time, it becomes rewarding.
Lesson three focuses on connections and tapping into the power of human interaction through running. Burfoot shares the introduction of race pacing as a way for runners who are strangers to bond by achieving a common time goal. As the world has become more connected through technology, we become more disconnected from physical contact with others. Running provides a chance to share life as well as love, fears, and stresses while enjoying the scenery around you.
Lesson four focuses on winning and how in the race to be your best, there is no losing. As Burfoot reminisced on the San Francisco Bay to Breakers race, I thought fondly of my experience completing that race in 2017 and being dazzled by various runner’s costumes (or not wearing any clothes at all.) As a runner, the goal in a race isn’t to win but yo do your best with winning as an added bonus.
Lesson five focuses on traditions and Burfoot’s first road race experience. Although Burfoot initially shunned traditions as a teenager, he unexpectedly creates a tradition involving the running world. In a world that is constantly moving fast, traditions give us an anchor to hold onto to.
Lesson six focuses on time and how futile it is to focus on race time through sharing his experience completing the Comrades Marathon in South Africa. It’s important to learn to slow down and savor life versus wasting energy by rushing unnecessarily.
Lesson seven focuses on listening and capturing the sounds of the internal world. Running without music provides a way to connect with one’s surroundings as well as keeping one’s awake. By listening without headphones, this allows Burfoot to think more clearly, listen to his inner thoughts as well as protect himself from possible harm from cars or criminals. Running teaches you how to listen to yourself and believe in yourself.
Lesson eight focuses on losing and how all paths lead to victory. Losing doesn’t equal failure but is instead can be a springboard to bounce back from. I liked Burfoot’s statement that losing isn’t a fatal condition, it’s more like a cold that makes you miserable for a week then goes away. There’s no failure in running or in life as long as you keep moving forward.
Lesson nine focuses on materialism and Burfoot’s belief that what you really need, you already have. Running is the simplest of sports since all you technically need is a pair of running shoes. The equipment doesn’t make the runner. Unfortunately, advertising and testimonials lead runners to believe that their running success lies in buying a specific shoe which is an empty promise.
Lesson ten focuses on brothers and how regardless of what happens in life, family will always be there for you. Burfoot discusses the relationship with his family and his running reunited him with his younger brother. It resonated with me that though Burfoot doesn’t come from a family of talkers who share feelings openly, they do support each other when it counts by physically being present and giving words of encouragement.
Lesson eleven focuses on simplicity and the power of letting your mind go. Liked the idea that running is really advanced walking. Burfoot discusses the historical roots of running in that it was once use to chase down food as well as run from predators. By removing exercise from daily life, this has led to an increase in lifestyle diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, and other diseases. Running is simple, life is hard.
Lesson twelve focuses on courage and how potential greatness lies in each of us. Burfoot shares the story of Linda Downes who created a running club for those with various handicaps. Despite having polio and being unable to walk without the help of crutches, she completed the New York City Marathon. Burfoot also shares the story of Oprah Winfrey’s goal to run a marathon and his experience running with her during the Marine Corps Marathon.
Lesson thirteen focuses on goals and the importance of taking short steps for steady progress. While you always have to stay focused on your goal, you also need to be flexible enough to adapt to different conditions.
Lesson fourteen focuses on children and why it’s vital for them to choose their own paths in life. Burfoot shares how he wanted and expected his children to be like him but eventually realized that his two children have little to no interest in running. Overall, we all have unique passions and unique paths.
Lesson fifteen focuses on the new year and viewing the new year as a time of new beginnings. Like Burfoot, I occasionally enjoyed welcoming the New Year by completing a running event. Burfoot starts a unofficial yearly running/swimming event which is a non-competitive run done at the pace of the slowest runner. The event is more about togetherness than competition and is meant to be a fun way to meet old and new friends.
In between the lessons (aka chapters,) Burfoot shares insights he’s had over thirty-five years of running such as the essential traits of a runner, his personal runner’s heroes, the music of running, transcendent moments of a runner, a runner’s words of inspiration, and a runner’s essential reading list.
As I finished this book, I really embraced Burfoot’s mindset that the running journey is a process which transitions from wanting to run faster to wanting to run farther to accepting ourselves and appreciating the true joy of running.
The book consists of acknowledgments followed by fifteen chapters which are referred to as lessons. In addition to the fifteen lessons, Burfoot provides the reader with six insights he’s discovered during thirty-five years of running.
Lesson one focuses on why run and Burfoot shares what his coach taught him about the qualities of a runner which include not giving up and how running is the only sport that you don’t need skill to do. According to Burfoot through running, the mind/body connection is re-established and ideas are better able to flow freely without thinking about other things.
Lesson two focuses on how to create a life of continually new beginnings. In this lesson, Burfoot shares with the reader his unexpected start to running through his jayvee basketball team in high school. In addition, Burfoot expresses the excitement of being at a starting line in sport and in life and how although starting anything in life is scary in the beginning, over time, it becomes rewarding.
Lesson three focuses on connections and tapping into the power of human interaction through running. Burfoot shares the introduction of race pacing as a way for runners who are strangers to bond by achieving a common time goal. As the world has become more connected through technology, we become more disconnected from physical contact with others. Running provides a chance to share life as well as love, fears, and stresses while enjoying the scenery around you.
Lesson four focuses on winning and how in the race to be your best, there is no losing. As Burfoot reminisced on the San Francisco Bay to Breakers race, I thought fondly of my experience completing that race in 2017 and being dazzled by various runner’s costumes (or not wearing any clothes at all.) As a runner, the goal in a race isn’t to win but yo do your best with winning as an added bonus.
Lesson five focuses on traditions and Burfoot’s first road race experience. Although Burfoot initially shunned traditions as a teenager, he unexpectedly creates a tradition involving the running world. In a world that is constantly moving fast, traditions give us an anchor to hold onto to.
Lesson six focuses on time and how futile it is to focus on race time through sharing his experience completing the Comrades Marathon in South Africa. It’s important to learn to slow down and savor life versus wasting energy by rushing unnecessarily.
Lesson seven focuses on listening and capturing the sounds of the internal world. Running without music provides a way to connect with one’s surroundings as well as keeping one’s awake. By listening without headphones, this allows Burfoot to think more clearly, listen to his inner thoughts as well as protect himself from possible harm from cars or criminals. Running teaches you how to listen to yourself and believe in yourself.
Lesson eight focuses on losing and how all paths lead to victory. Losing doesn’t equal failure but is instead can be a springboard to bounce back from. I liked Burfoot’s statement that losing isn’t a fatal condition, it’s more like a cold that makes you miserable for a week then goes away. There’s no failure in running or in life as long as you keep moving forward.
Lesson nine focuses on materialism and Burfoot’s belief that what you really need, you already have. Running is the simplest of sports since all you technically need is a pair of running shoes. The equipment doesn’t make the runner. Unfortunately, advertising and testimonials lead runners to believe that their running success lies in buying a specific shoe which is an empty promise.
Lesson ten focuses on brothers and how regardless of what happens in life, family will always be there for you. Burfoot discusses the relationship with his family and his running reunited him with his younger brother. It resonated with me that though Burfoot doesn’t come from a family of talkers who share feelings openly, they do support each other when it counts by physically being present and giving words of encouragement.
Lesson eleven focuses on simplicity and the power of letting your mind go. Liked the idea that running is really advanced walking. Burfoot discusses the historical roots of running in that it was once use to chase down food as well as run from predators. By removing exercise from daily life, this has led to an increase in lifestyle diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, and other diseases. Running is simple, life is hard.
Lesson twelve focuses on courage and how potential greatness lies in each of us. Burfoot shares the story of Linda Downes who created a running club for those with various handicaps. Despite having polio and being unable to walk without the help of crutches, she completed the New York City Marathon. Burfoot also shares the story of Oprah Winfrey’s goal to run a marathon and his experience running with her during the Marine Corps Marathon.
Lesson thirteen focuses on goals and the importance of taking short steps for steady progress. While you always have to stay focused on your goal, you also need to be flexible enough to adapt to different conditions.
Lesson fourteen focuses on children and why it’s vital for them to choose their own paths in life. Burfoot shares how he wanted and expected his children to be like him but eventually realized that his two children have little to no interest in running. Overall, we all have unique passions and unique paths.
Lesson fifteen focuses on the new year and viewing the new year as a time of new beginnings. Like Burfoot, I occasionally enjoyed welcoming the New Year by completing a running event. Burfoot starts a unofficial yearly running/swimming event which is a non-competitive run done at the pace of the slowest runner. The event is more about togetherness than competition and is meant to be a fun way to meet old and new friends.
In between the lessons (aka chapters,) Burfoot shares insights he’s had over thirty-five years of running such as the essential traits of a runner, his personal runner’s heroes, the music of running, transcendent moments of a runner, a runner’s words of inspiration, and a runner’s essential reading list.
As I finished this book, I really embraced Burfoot’s mindset that the running journey is a process which transitions from wanting to run faster to wanting to run farther to accepting ourselves and appreciating the true joy of running.
November 12, 2013
Not really sure how to rate this book. I read the first half thinking that it wasn't what I was expecting. But I wasn't disappointed either. I guess I felt like in some of the stories, the author could have tried a little harder in relating them to the meaning of life. Some came out as just stories of his running career, which I don't want to take away from, as they are still great stories. The last few chapters on courage, goals and New Years were exactly what I was expecting when I started the book. Those chapters were very motivational, and more relatable. I have a "hill" day tomorrow in my training, and am actually looking forward to finding out whether his technique can get me to the top. If nothing else, he's got me motivated to try my damndest!
August 24, 2011
I'm always on the prowl for books about running, particularly ones with inspirational themes or motives.
I go through phases in my running, and sometimes books written by runners who are more passionate about the sport don't connect with me. This book was endearing to its core. Burfoot has a tone that is appealing to different types of runners. Sure, he won the 1968 Boston Marathon, but not once did he come across as condescending. His humility was present. Burfoot's writing style is clear and shows his experience in the writing world.
I think my biggest complaint about this book would be that it is so short. It left me wanting more, although I'm not sure what he'd have to add.
I go through phases in my running, and sometimes books written by runners who are more passionate about the sport don't connect with me. This book was endearing to its core. Burfoot has a tone that is appealing to different types of runners. Sure, he won the 1968 Boston Marathon, but not once did he come across as condescending. His humility was present. Burfoot's writing style is clear and shows his experience in the writing world.
I think my biggest complaint about this book would be that it is so short. It left me wanting more, although I'm not sure what he'd have to add.
July 7, 2013
Great lines in this book comparing running to life. I love this reference to Starting Lines - in a race, and in life. Opportunity, excitement and fright! Great metaphor to just put one foot in front of the other and the new beginning starts! In his Listening chapter he also talks about running teaching us to move on, there's always another day, another race, more. He's run more races than I ever will, and won the Boston Marathon to boot. Great lessons in this little book!
May 4, 2015
Originally posted at http://karlocallaghan.com/2015/05/04/...
The Runner's Guide to the Meaning of Life was written in 2000 by Amby Burfoot, winner of the 1968 Boston Marathon.
I bought the book because it appeared on the Amazon list of the 25 bestselling books on running. It is only available in print not in e-book format.
Most of the other books in the list were about the mechanics of running or preparing for a race. I put myself in the fairly seasoned runner category and so now I don't really go for the how-to books anymore. And having read Murakami Haruki's What I Talk About When I Talk About Running, I wanted something more autobiographical.
The version of the book that I bought was adorned with only one testimonial. I am used to seeing at least five or six on the cover, in the inside jacket and on the back cover. So the marketing of this book is somewhat understated.
The book's only testimonial appears on the front cover on one of those mock stickers: by Benjamin Cheever of Runner's World, who describes it as "one of the five best books on running". I'm sure that with a guy as well connected and respected as Burfoot, Skyhorse Publishing could have found a different or even a more inspiring testimonial. The big problem is that Cheever is a colleague of Burfoot's. So hardly an unbiased endorsement.
Yes, there are a few high points throughout the book, but on the whole, it was a bit pedestrian for a book about running. I was often left feeling "So what?"
He covers why humans run (because it's natural and doesn't require any skill), and how life is about beginning new things all the time (the starting line of a race is a proxy for overcoming the fear of starting new things in life).
Burfoot then goes on to discuss connections and networks. He obviously has great running groups and many friends that he runs with. He also talks of the deep conversations he has had while running. Being an introvert, running for me is a solitary activity. But I can definitely see the benefit of group running in pushing one another to go faster. So why didn't Burfoot get some of these people to write a testimonial then?
Burfoot is a winner. He won Boston in 1968 and set his fastest ever time (2:14:29) in Fukuoka, Japan later the same year. Now that he is older, he sees the other side: how most regular runners feel.
"One of the great benefits of running is that it teaches us to value the individual--our self. We run a race with 75,000 others, but we're primarily concerned about our own outcome."
For us foot soldiers, we are in it to beat one person: ourselves. In our hearts, if we beat our target or get a personal best, we know we have won.
"Winning is not about headlines... It's only about attitude. A winner is a person who goes out today and every day and attempts to be the best runner and best person he can be... Winning is about struggle and effort and optimism, and never, ever, ever giving up."
He doesn't just talk about winning. He addresses the other side of the coin too. It's a cliche by now that in order to succeed we must first encounter failure. Burfoot talks about missing out twice on qualifying for the Olympics. In hindsight he was able to go on and achieve in different areas.
"I have learned that there is no failure in running, or in life, as long as you keep moving. It's not about speed or gold medals. It's about refusing to be stopped."
Burfoot chooses to run without earphones. He likes to hear his own thoughts. When it snows, he enjoys the crisp noise underfoot. He makes an interesting observation that in all the seminars designed to make him a better listener, there is one thing missing:
"The more meetings I attend, however, the more I believe that something crucial is being left out. Yes, it's important to listen to everyone around you. But it's even more important to learn how to listen to yourself. Whether a decision is purely personal or involves dozens or even hundreds of others, you alone are the only person who has to make it, and you can only do it after listening to your own internal monologue."
Good advice. Running is definitely my thinking time when I resolve some of the issues of the day. I run with music, but find that when I am deep in thought, I don't even notice the music. I might try to run from time to time without music.
My biggest takeaway from the book is the importance of mentors - both learning from those who come before us, but also passing wisdom and knowledge to the generations that follow. Unfortunately, this author really didn't get through to me in the same way that other writers have done through their prose.
I was really hoping that Burfoot would get to one kernel of truth by the end of the book: he promises the meaning of life. Sadly I was disappointed.
If this is one of the top 5 books on running, the bar is pretty low.
The Runner's Guide to the Meaning of Life was written in 2000 by Amby Burfoot, winner of the 1968 Boston Marathon.
I bought the book because it appeared on the Amazon list of the 25 bestselling books on running. It is only available in print not in e-book format.
Most of the other books in the list were about the mechanics of running or preparing for a race. I put myself in the fairly seasoned runner category and so now I don't really go for the how-to books anymore. And having read Murakami Haruki's What I Talk About When I Talk About Running, I wanted something more autobiographical.
The version of the book that I bought was adorned with only one testimonial. I am used to seeing at least five or six on the cover, in the inside jacket and on the back cover. So the marketing of this book is somewhat understated.
The book's only testimonial appears on the front cover on one of those mock stickers: by Benjamin Cheever of Runner's World, who describes it as "one of the five best books on running". I'm sure that with a guy as well connected and respected as Burfoot, Skyhorse Publishing could have found a different or even a more inspiring testimonial. The big problem is that Cheever is a colleague of Burfoot's. So hardly an unbiased endorsement.
Yes, there are a few high points throughout the book, but on the whole, it was a bit pedestrian for a book about running. I was often left feeling "So what?"
He covers why humans run (because it's natural and doesn't require any skill), and how life is about beginning new things all the time (the starting line of a race is a proxy for overcoming the fear of starting new things in life).
Burfoot then goes on to discuss connections and networks. He obviously has great running groups and many friends that he runs with. He also talks of the deep conversations he has had while running. Being an introvert, running for me is a solitary activity. But I can definitely see the benefit of group running in pushing one another to go faster. So why didn't Burfoot get some of these people to write a testimonial then?
Burfoot is a winner. He won Boston in 1968 and set his fastest ever time (2:14:29) in Fukuoka, Japan later the same year. Now that he is older, he sees the other side: how most regular runners feel.
"One of the great benefits of running is that it teaches us to value the individual--our self. We run a race with 75,000 others, but we're primarily concerned about our own outcome."
For us foot soldiers, we are in it to beat one person: ourselves. In our hearts, if we beat our target or get a personal best, we know we have won.
"Winning is not about headlines... It's only about attitude. A winner is a person who goes out today and every day and attempts to be the best runner and best person he can be... Winning is about struggle and effort and optimism, and never, ever, ever giving up."
He doesn't just talk about winning. He addresses the other side of the coin too. It's a cliche by now that in order to succeed we must first encounter failure. Burfoot talks about missing out twice on qualifying for the Olympics. In hindsight he was able to go on and achieve in different areas.
"I have learned that there is no failure in running, or in life, as long as you keep moving. It's not about speed or gold medals. It's about refusing to be stopped."
Burfoot chooses to run without earphones. He likes to hear his own thoughts. When it snows, he enjoys the crisp noise underfoot. He makes an interesting observation that in all the seminars designed to make him a better listener, there is one thing missing:
"The more meetings I attend, however, the more I believe that something crucial is being left out. Yes, it's important to listen to everyone around you. But it's even more important to learn how to listen to yourself. Whether a decision is purely personal or involves dozens or even hundreds of others, you alone are the only person who has to make it, and you can only do it after listening to your own internal monologue."
Good advice. Running is definitely my thinking time when I resolve some of the issues of the day. I run with music, but find that when I am deep in thought, I don't even notice the music. I might try to run from time to time without music.
My biggest takeaway from the book is the importance of mentors - both learning from those who come before us, but also passing wisdom and knowledge to the generations that follow. Unfortunately, this author really didn't get through to me in the same way that other writers have done through their prose.
I was really hoping that Burfoot would get to one kernel of truth by the end of the book: he promises the meaning of life. Sadly I was disappointed.
If this is one of the top 5 books on running, the bar is pretty low.
July 11, 2014
Since picking up my new running habit a couple months ago, I can't seem to get enough of the topic: I listen to running podcasts and read running blogs and now I've read this short little book. This was very readable -- you can tell the author (Boston Marathon winner and editor at the magazine Runner's World) is also a writer. Lots of wisdom about life as it relates to running, coupled with some good stories. I liked some stuff well enough to write it down. Here are some quotes I liked:
---
"When the frustrations and obstacles seem too great, every runner is tempted to quit. This is when you most need patience. This is when you need to tell yourself that tomorrow or next week or next year is soon enough." (p. 14)
"Every runner invents even more embarrassing ways to humiliate himself. Fortunately, humility is a positive force. It teaches you that, even after a stumble, you can get up and start running again. If you're lucky, maybe no one noticed. If they did, so what? Everyone stumbles at one time or another. It's the human condition." (p.18)
"Time is the very stuff of life, the most precious substance we have ... When something is this important, it shouldn't be hurried." (p. 57)
"How strange that running, which seems so outwardly physical, is actually the most thought-full of activities. If you slow down and pay attention, you will be amazed at what you hear. And you will find that the thoughts that surface during a workout run strong and true through all the parts of your life." (p.70)
"Losing isn't contagious. It's not a fatal condition, and it's not forever. It's more like a cold that makes you miserable for a week but then goes away, and you're fine." (p. 73)
"I have learned that there is no failure in running, or in life, as long as you keep moving. It's not about speed and gold medals. It's about refusing to be stopped." (p. 77)
"I try to think of myself as an apple tree. Time is not linear, it moves in circles. Come spring, I will bloom again." (p. 149)
---
A lot of these quotes say basically the same thing ... that probably says more about me than the book!
---
"When the frustrations and obstacles seem too great, every runner is tempted to quit. This is when you most need patience. This is when you need to tell yourself that tomorrow or next week or next year is soon enough." (p. 14)
"Every runner invents even more embarrassing ways to humiliate himself. Fortunately, humility is a positive force. It teaches you that, even after a stumble, you can get up and start running again. If you're lucky, maybe no one noticed. If they did, so what? Everyone stumbles at one time or another. It's the human condition." (p.18)
"Time is the very stuff of life, the most precious substance we have ... When something is this important, it shouldn't be hurried." (p. 57)
"How strange that running, which seems so outwardly physical, is actually the most thought-full of activities. If you slow down and pay attention, you will be amazed at what you hear. And you will find that the thoughts that surface during a workout run strong and true through all the parts of your life." (p.70)
"Losing isn't contagious. It's not a fatal condition, and it's not forever. It's more like a cold that makes you miserable for a week but then goes away, and you're fine." (p. 73)
"I have learned that there is no failure in running, or in life, as long as you keep moving. It's not about speed and gold medals. It's about refusing to be stopped." (p. 77)
"I try to think of myself as an apple tree. Time is not linear, it moves in circles. Come spring, I will bloom again." (p. 149)
---
A lot of these quotes say basically the same thing ... that probably says more about me than the book!
December 21, 2016
Great reading, something all runners should read. Book covers fifteen lessons all runners can appreciate and incorporate beyond their athletic endeavors. The lesson on patience and courage particularly resonated with me. Patience to see the long road, to be patient in letting injuries both emotionally and physically heal on their own time and not on the timeline that you desire. Courage to continue to pursue new races, new beginnings no matter how lonely that journey might make you feel at times. I particularly like the author's emphasis on balance, I know I have a particular fond for obsessive behavior, whether is in sports, books, or almost every aspect of my life but recognizing this and continually striving to find balance is very important if one is to find inner peace. Really liked the quotes and the various forms of inspiration that author gets from writers, runners, and the everyday Joe who runs a 5k or a marathon. Will definitely look into the book recommendations, particularly with Timothy D. Noakes and of course George Sheenah.
December 23, 2014
The title choice is a bit grandiose; something like "Reflections on Some Ways Running Relates to Life" might represent more accurately the life-changing capacity of this book. But there's no chapter here I would consider a waste of time.
A short book, the chapters are brief as well, 5-8 pages with not many words on a page. It could be read in one sitting, though it would make a good bathroom book at a few minutes per chapter. In between some chapters are bits of supplementary material, such as "The Essential Traits of a Runner" and "A Runner's Essential Reading."
There's nothing mind-blowing here, yet while the insights aren't new or surprising, this is a nice collection of simply-stated wisdoms of which it's always good to be reminded. The last couple chapters, "Children" and "New Year" are my favorites, maybe because I just read them or perhaps because they seem to offer more detailed description and imagery than some other chapters.
November 12, 2014
Great short book that both provides inspiration for runners and outlines lessons learned through running. Some great sections cover themes like "Time" and "Losing", themes that we face not only in running, but in other areas of our lives. One of my favorite segments was a short insight section on traits of runners- his section on humility was fantastic: "No one escapes unscathed. If you run, you will eventually face a disastrous day. You'll drop out of a race. You'll finish last...And these are only the most commonplace things that will happen to you. Every runner invents ever more embarrassing ways to humiliate himself. Fortunately, humility is a positive force. It teaches you that, even after a stumble, you can get up and start running again."
March 11, 2012
I am giving this 5 stars because it really hit home with me, Burfoot's philosophy, experiences, and his writing style simply hit home with me. The book is organized into 15 lessons and 6 insight sections. The book captivated me at lesson one because he was discussing running in my local area; lesson two and the insights following really sealed my appreciation of this book. I laughed out loud at humility and read it to my husband. "No one escapes unscathed." He laughed along with me and said, yep you've done that and that and you probably ran into a parked car but won't admit it! This is a book to keep close and flip through and read a lesson or insight every once in a while.
August 23, 2013
great little read about running and all the metaphors from running that you can apply to other parts of your life. maybe only a book runners can enjoy or at least relate to. so true about being able to get past that wall around mile 22-23 in a marathon. you do whatever you can to just keep going and you feel absolutely supreme when you get to the finish line because you just accomplished something that seemed impossible.
December 29, 2013
This book was given to me on my 22nd birthday. I started running this past March with a group of ladies and stopped at the end of July because I let life get in the way. Now I have a renewed outlook on running thanks to this book. My quarterlife crisis can be avoided.
I highlighted so many lessons on the meaning of life and how to live it right. There's many lessons for the reader, no matter how old or where you are in life. A book I‘ll make a point to read every birthday from now on.
I highlighted so many lessons on the meaning of life and how to live it right. There's many lessons for the reader, no matter how old or where you are in life. A book I‘ll make a point to read every birthday from now on.
May 2, 2016
I read this book while recovering from a knee injury, and not running as a result. While some of Mr. Burfoot's lessons are less than applicable to me (children, mainly!) I found the positive nature of this book particularly welcome at this point in time. We can't all wish to be the kind of runner he is, but the lessons for thinking of running in a positive light are good for anyone from the back of the pack to the front.
November 23, 2011
Purely by coincidence I started reading this day of the NYC marathon which I ran and didn't do as well as hoped. This is a very inspirational book and helped me that day immediately put behind the negative thoughts and focus on the positive that I just ran a marathon! Lots of inspiring words and approaches to life in this small book!
April 19, 2012
Look, my best marathon was 5:26:36. This book was for me as well as the 2:30:00 marathoner or anyone who has included running as an important part of their life. Funny. Smart. Inspiring stories from his life and the lives of others.He provides alot of resources outside of his own book. Vey motivating and fun read.
April 26, 2010
Not your usual book on running...nothing on training methods, schedules, diet, nutrition, running form etc. Amby Burnfoot has instead chosen to use his years of running experience to reflect on the important aspects of both running and life. Definitely a must for runners.
May 2, 2010
This little book was very inspirational...written by a world class runner, I found it comforting that he shares much of the same feelings as this mere mortal! And finding it was perfectly timed for my half marathon. I will read it again before my next big race!
September 22, 2010
This was a quick read that initially I was somewhat disappointed with. Later it got me thinking of what is truly important in life and reminding me of how much you do get to think while running. If you are a runner, this is worth reading.
February 26, 2013
A quick read. He says, "first, we try to run faster. Then we try to run harder. Then we learn to accept ourselves and our limitations..." Working on that last part! Thanks for letting me borrow the book, Jenn!
March 15, 2015
A friend sent this to me, and I devoured it in two sittings. Essentially a collection of musings from a lifetime runner, there was much that resonated with me, and it was written in a way that seemed as if he were sitting right beside you, telling his stories.
From the introduction:
From the introduction:
June 22, 2015
Basically a look at running from a laid back perspective. This is a short book that will make you feel good. For younger perhaps it is more helpful and gives you a good perspective on running. It is an easy read, but I wasn't overly impressed.
December 31, 2017
Glad to have completed this as a year closes and the potential of another comes into sight.
I was facing a wall of my own and this played a great part in getting my feet into them shoes and out the door to just try, and try again.
I was facing a wall of my own and this played a great part in getting my feet into them shoes and out the door to just try, and try again.
August 19, 2010
Nice book to read by someone who enjoys running and reminds the read to relax and not be focused on "winning" but rather the pleasure of the sport.
March 18, 2017
Loved it as a short read and quick reference for later.
February 7, 2018
Good reminders for good runs and bad runs alike.
September 18, 2022
This is a novella-length memoir by a longtime runner who won the Boston Marathon at 21 years of age. Though Amby Burfooot dreamed of going to the Olympics, he tried twice and screwed it up. He became editor of Runner's World for a few decades maybe so I've read his work a few times, but didn't recognize the name that wrote the book.
His experience is inspiring, which it's meant to be. He hopes his readers will fall in love with running as he has since he discovered it in high school.
I was never a runner who ran with a friend usually. I didn't talk while running as Burfoot does. I often sang in my head, but didn't use headphones, either. I'm not positive I ran with my mouth closed for the most part, but I do know that taking a deep breath is not through your mouth as stated by Burfoot.
Most interesting was learning that Oprah Winfrey finished the Marine Corp Marathon in Washington in 2008 and Burfoot ran behind her in admiration. She never walked. One of his heroes, too, is a medical docctor/philosopher who always ran barefoot.
Nice tribute to the joys of running.
His experience is inspiring, which it's meant to be. He hopes his readers will fall in love with running as he has since he discovered it in high school.
I was never a runner who ran with a friend usually. I didn't talk while running as Burfoot does. I often sang in my head, but didn't use headphones, either. I'm not positive I ran with my mouth closed for the most part, but I do know that taking a deep breath is not through your mouth as stated by Burfoot.
Most interesting was learning that Oprah Winfrey finished the Marine Corp Marathon in Washington in 2008 and Burfoot ran behind her in admiration. She never walked. One of his heroes, too, is a medical docctor/philosopher who always ran barefoot.
Nice tribute to the joys of running.
December 4, 2018
I have two words about this book, "Own It!"
It isn't often that I buy books, because I'm an avid library user. Most of the ones I do own though I have bought from the author and had autographed. This one I picked up when Amby was the guest speaker at the New England 65+ Running Club annual luncheon. With one reading it has become one of my favorite running books of all time, right up there with Once A Runner (John L. Parker), The Olympian (Brian Glanville), and Five Kings of Distance (Peter Lovesey).
Only 150 pages, with short chapters that just plain make you feel good. Keep it by the bedside for a few easy minutes of reading that will send you off to sleep in a good mood. Don't simply borrow it. Own it because you will want to return to it over and over.
It isn't often that I buy books, because I'm an avid library user. Most of the ones I do own though I have bought from the author and had autographed. This one I picked up when Amby was the guest speaker at the New England 65+ Running Club annual luncheon. With one reading it has become one of my favorite running books of all time, right up there with Once A Runner (John L. Parker), The Olympian (Brian Glanville), and Five Kings of Distance (Peter Lovesey).
Only 150 pages, with short chapters that just plain make you feel good. Keep it by the bedside for a few easy minutes of reading that will send you off to sleep in a good mood. Don't simply borrow it. Own it because you will want to return to it over and over.
April 13, 2024
What a gem for a thrift find. I originally picked up because of the title, but then found a handwritten note from a coach to his runner dated from 2004. It made me tear up, so I opened up the acknowledgments section and immediately started crying haha.
This book has many little golden nuggets for runners and non-runners alike. As a runner, Burfoot was able to put into words what I have struggled for years. There’s some lessons in this short book that I needed to read.
This was a really special quick read for me.
This book has many little golden nuggets for runners and non-runners alike. As a runner, Burfoot was able to put into words what I have struggled for years. There’s some lessons in this short book that I needed to read.
This was a really special quick read for me.
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