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10 Best Running Books 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

9.8 score

Daniels' Running Formula

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Daniels' Running Formula

Human Kinetics

9.8 score

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Daniels' Running Formula is a well-regarded guide in the running community, authored by Jack Daniels, a highly respected exercise physiologist and coach. His expertise is evident throughout the book, which provides detailed, scientifically-backed training plans suitable for runners of various levels, from beginners to advanced athletes. The book's target audience is mainly adult runners (18 years and up) who are committed to improving their performance and understanding the science behind their training.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,165
Author Expertise
Training Plans
Technical Information

Most important from
1166 reviews

Author Expertise
Jack Daniels is an excellent coach with many years of experience, and his methods truly work.
Training Plans
Jack Daniels' training methods helped me achieve a top finish in a 10K event and continue to enhance my enjoyment of running.
Technical Information
While foundational for American distance running, the book could benefit from updates to reflect the latest advancements in sports science.
Reviews and Recommendations
An excellent resource for runners looking to improve their performance.
#2
9.6 score

How Bad Do You Want It?: Mastering the Psychology of Mind over Muscle

How Bad Do You Want It?: Mastering the Psychology of Mind over Muscle

VeloPress

9.6 score

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'How Bad Do You Want It?: Mastering the Psychology of Mind over Muscle' is written by Matt Fitzgerald, a well-regarded author in the field of endurance sports. His expertise is evident as he blends psychological principles with athletic performance, making the book a valuable read for runners and athletes looking to enhance their mental toughness. The target audience spans from amateur runners to seasoned athletes, as the book addresses common mental challenges faced during training and competition.

Rating
9.6
Author Expertise
Target Audience
Motivational Content

Most important from
2187 reviews

Author Expertise
Matt Fitzgerald's book offers stories of elite athletes who have achieved their best through better mental training skills and mindsets, making it truly inspirational.
Target Audience
The purpose of the book is to help readers become their own sports psychologists, understanding that the muscles can only perform to the degree that the mind is able to cope.
Motivational Content
The combination of science and personal narratives makes complex ideas easy to grasp, leaving a lasting impact and a renewed sense of motivation.
Technical Information
The book seamlessly blends scientific insights with real-life experiences, creating a powerful and engaging read.

Top 10 Best Running Books 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

9.8 score

Slide 1

Human Kinetics

Daniels' Running Formula

Author Expertise: Jack Daniels, physiologist and coach
Target Audience: Adult runners (18+ years)
Training Plans: Detailed, scientific, customizable
Motivational Content: Included
Technical Information: Complex concepts made understandable

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24% OFF

Chosen by 1165 this week

#2

9.6 score

Slide 1Slide 2

VeloPress

How Bad Do You Want It?: Mastering the Psychology of Mind over Muscle

Author Expertise: Matt Fitzgerald, endurance sports expert
Target Audience: Amateur runners, seasoned athletes
Motivational Content: Woven through athletes' experiences
Technical Information: Psychological training aspects, accessible

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#3

9.3 score

Slide 1

Scribner Book Company

Shoe Dog: A Memoir by the Creator of Nike

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56% OFF
#4

9.1 score

Slide 1

Rodale

Runner's World How to Make Yourself Poop: And 999 Other Tips All Runners Should Know

Author Expertise: Experts from Runner's World
Target Audience: Casual joggers, competitive athletes
Motivational Content: Engaging, humorous approach

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30% OFF
#5

8.8 score

Slide 1

Human Kinetics

Lore of Running, 4th Edition

Author Expertise: Timothy Noakes, sports science expert
Target Audience: beginners and advanced runners
Training Plans: detailed training plans
Motivational Content: inspiring motivational content
Technical Information: technical insights

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49% OFF

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#6

8.6 score

Slide 1

Rodale

Runner's World Training Journal: A Daily Dose of Motivation, Training Tips & Running Wisdom for Every Kind of Runner--From Fitness Runners to Competitive Racers

Author Expertise: Backed by Runner's World
Target Audience: Beginners to seasoned competitors
Motivational Content: Motivational content, tips, running wisdom

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#7

8.3 score

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VeloPress

Girls Running: All You Need to Strive, Thrive, and Run Your Best

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#8

8.1 score

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Human Kinetics

Personal Best Running: Coach Coogan’s Strategies for the Mile to the Marathon

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#9

7.8 score

Slide 1

Rodale

The Runner's World Big Book of Marathon and Half-Marathon Training: Winning Strategies, Inpiring Stories, and the Ultimate Training Tools

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#10

7.5 score

Slide 1

Rowman & Littlefield Publishers

The Trail Runner's Companion: A Step-by-Step Guide to Trail Running and Racing, from 5Ks to Ultras

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Buying Guide for the Best Running Books

Choosing the right running book can be a great way to enhance your running experience, whether you're a beginner or an experienced runner. The right book can provide you with valuable insights, training plans, motivational stories, and tips on improving your technique and performance. To find the best fit for you, consider the following key aspects and how they align with your personal needs and goals.
Author ExpertiseThe expertise of the author is crucial because it determines the credibility and reliability of the information presented. Look for books written by experienced runners, coaches, or sports scientists. If you're a beginner, you might prefer an author who has a reputation for making complex concepts easy to understand. For more advanced runners, an author with a deep technical background might be more beneficial.
Target AudienceRunning books are often tailored to specific audiences, such as beginners, intermediate runners, or advanced athletes. It's important to choose a book that matches your current level of experience. Beginners should look for books that cover the basics of running, including starting plans and injury prevention. Intermediate and advanced runners might seek books that offer advanced training techniques, race strategies, and performance optimization.
Training PlansTraining plans are a key component of many running books, providing structured schedules to help you achieve your goals. These plans can vary in length and intensity. If you're training for a specific event, like a marathon or a 5K, look for books that offer tailored plans for those distances. Ensure the plan aligns with your current fitness level and time availability.
Motivational ContentMotivational content can be a significant factor in keeping you inspired and committed to your running journey. Some books focus heavily on personal stories, overcoming obstacles, and mental strategies. If you find it challenging to stay motivated, a book with a strong motivational component might be the best fit for you.
Technical InformationTechnical information includes details on running form, biomechanics, nutrition, and injury prevention. This content is essential for improving your performance and staying healthy. Beginners might need more basic explanations, while advanced runners could benefit from in-depth technical analysis. Choose a book that matches your interest and understanding of these topics.
Reviews and RecommendationsReviews and recommendations from other runners can provide valuable insights into the book's effectiveness and readability. Look for books with positive feedback from readers who share similar goals and experience levels. Online reviews, running forums, and recommendations from running clubs can help you gauge the book's suitability for your needs.

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