Must-Read Books for Ultra-Runners - Get Inspired and Ready to Hit the Trails!
Running is not just a sport, it is a lifestyle. Ultra-running is the next level of running- pushing yourself to the limits and going beyond. It is a journey of self-discovery, where you learn more about yourself and your capabilities than ever before.
If you're an ultra-runner or want to be an ultra-runner and looking for the best books to help you reach your goals, you've come to the right place! We have researched the best books for ultra-running that are sure to give you the information and motivation you need to become a successful ultra-runner.
From training and nutrition tips to inspirational stories, these books cover it all! Whether you're just starting or an experienced ultra-runner looking for a new challenge, these books have something for you.
If you’re an avid ultra-running enthusiast, you know just how important it is to stay on top of the latest tips and techniques from the pros. Luckily, some great ultra-running books can help you take your running to the next level.
Ultramarathon Man: Confessions of an All-Night Runner
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Ultramarathon Man: Confessions of an All-Night Runner by Dean Karnazes
Ultramarathon Man, Confessions of an All-Night Runner by Dean Karnazes, is a must-read for any ultra-runner. Written by legendary ultra-runner Dean Karnazes, this book offers an intimate look into the world of ultra-running and provides valuable insights on how to push yourself to the limit.
Karnazes reveals the mind-boggling adventures of his nonstop treks through the hell of Death Valley, the incomprehensible frigidity of the South Pole, and the breathtaking beauty of the mountains and canyons of the Sierra Nevada.
Available at amazon.com
Becoming a Supple Leopard - The Ultimate Guide to Resolving Pain, Preventing Injury, and Optimizing Athletic Performance
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Becoming a Supple Leopard - The Ultimate Guide to Resolving Pain, Preventing Injury, and Optimizing Athletic Performance By Kelly Starrett
This New York Times and Wall Street Journal bestseller has been thoroughly revised to make it even easier to put to use. Want to truly understand the principles that guide human movement? Becoming a Supple Leopard lays out a blueprint for moving safely and effectively through life and sport.
Learn how to apply those principles to specific movements, whether you are doing squats in the gym or picking up a bag of groceries. Hundreds of step-by-step photos show you not only how to perform a host of exercise movements, such as the squat, deadlift, pushup, kettlebell swing, clean, snatch, and muscle-up, but also how to correct the common faults associated with those movements.
Available at amazon.com
Eat & Run: My Unlikely Journey to Ultramarathon Greatness
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Eat & Run: My Unlikely Journey to Ultramarathon Greatness by Scott Jurek
Eat & Run: My Unlikely Journey to Ultramarathon Greatness by Scott Jurek: This inspiring memoir from one of the most successful ultra-runners of all time, Scott Jurek, offers an honest look at his life, from his humble beginnings to becoming one of the most successful ultra-runners ever.
For nearly two decades, Scott Jurek has been a dominant force - and darling - in the grueling and growing sport of ultrarunning. In 1999, as a complete unknown, he took the lead of the Western States Endurance Run, a 100-mile traverse over the old Gold Rush trails of the California Sierra Nevada. He won that race seven years in a row, setting a course record along the way.
Available at amazon.com
Can't Hurt Me: Master Your Mind and Defy the Odds
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Can't Hurt Me: Master Your Mind and Defy the Odds by David Goggins & Adam Skolnick
For David Goggins, childhood was a nightmare--poverty, prejudice, and physical abuse colored his days and haunted his nights. But through self-discipline, mental toughness, and hard work, Goggins transformed himself from a depressed, overweight young man with no future into a US Armed Forces icon and one of the world's top endurance athletes. The only man in history to complete elite training as a Navy SEAL, Army Ranger, and Air Force tactical air controller, he went on to set records in numerous endurance events, inspiring Outside magazine to name him the Fittest (Real) Man in America.
In Can't Hurt Me, he shares his astonishing life story and reveals that most of us tap into only 40 percent of our capabilities. Goggins calls this The 40% Rule, and his story illuminates a path that anyone can follow to push past pain, demolish fear, and reach their full potential.
Available at amazon.com
Best Ultra-Running Books FAQs
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned ultra-runner, these books are sure to provide invaluable insights and tips to help you get the most out of your running experience. Pick up one of these books today and take your running to the next level!
Q: Who is the best ultra runner of all time?
Answer: It's hard to say definitively who the best ultra runner of all time is, as many talented athletes have achieved great success in the sport.
However, if we had to pick one, we'd have to say that the legendary Karl Meltzer, who holds the record for the most career wins in ultra marathons (100+), is the best of all time. Karl has won some of the toughest and most iconic ultra marathons in the world, including the Hardrock 100, the Western States 100, and the Wasatch Front 100. He is an incredible athlete and a true inspiration for all runners.
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Q: What age do ultra runners peak?
Answer: Ultra running is a highly individualized sport and the age at which ultra runner peaks will depend on many factors such as individual fitness levels, training consistency, and overall dedication to the sport. Generally, most ultra runners reach peak performance between the ages of 30 and 40 when combined experience and physical peak come together.
However, there are many examples of ultra runners who have achieved peak performance both earlier and later in life. Ultimately, the age at which an ultra runner peaks is determined by the individual.
Q: Is it healthy to run ultra marathons?
Answer: Running ultra marathons can be a healthy choice for some people, depending on their overall fitness level and health. Generally, ultra marathons are considered to be more strenuous than traditional marathons, as they typically involve running distances greater than a full marathon (over 26.2 miles).
For this reason, it's important to consult with a doctor and consider your fitness level before attempting an ultra marathon. It's also important to ensure you have an adequate training plan that includes proper nutrition, hydration, and rest. Additionally, it's important to listen to your body and respond to its needs during the race. If you can follow these guidelines, ultra marathons can be a safe and enjoyable way to challenge yourself and push your physical limits.
Q: How hard is ultra running?
Answer: Ultra running can be a very challenging sport and is not for the faint of heart. It requires a great deal of physical and mental toughness to complete a race of this caliber. Physically, you will need to be in excellent condition, have good stamina, and be able to endure extreme conditions.
Mentally, it takes focus, determination, and the ability to stay motivated throughout the entire race. It can also be mentally draining at times, as the terrain is often difficult and the race can seem never-ending. Overall, ultra running is a difficult sport that requires a lot of dedication, but the reward of finishing a race like this is well worth the effort.
Q: Do ultra runners work speed?
Answer: Ultra runners typically focus on running longer distances as opposed to running at a faster speed. They spend time building their endurance and strength to tackle the long distances they set out to achieve. While some runners do incorporate speed-based workouts into their training, the focus is more on building the necessary endurance to complete the race rather than speed.