Synopses & Reviews
Synopsis
The Trail Runner s Companion provides a goal-oriented guide that coaches and inspires the reader to make steady progress toward becoming a better and more satisfied runner through trail running. Written by veteran trail runner and competitor, Sarah Lavender Smith, each chapter is anchored by a goal and opens with a compelling anecdote or example, told in the author s engaging voice. From learning the basics, to rising to the numerous challenges and adventures of the sport, to finishing an ultramarathon, this book appeals primarily to recreational road and trail runners of both genders who want to improve their running and enhance their overall wellness by trail running and racing. Secondarily, it draws in readers tempted by the challenge of ultramarathons and who seek a path to reach that stretch goal. Combining the storytelling and coaching expertise of the author, who also interviews other pro trail runners to incorporate their insights, The Trail Runner's Companion delivers practical, sophisticated, yet uncomplicated advice through a well-known, trusted, and inspiring personality in the sport of trail running."
Synopsis
The Trail Runner's Companion provides an inspirational, practical, and goal-oriented guide. Readers will embark on a journey that begins with safe, consistent training and culminates in adventurous, ambitious trail racing. Along the way, they'll learn the basics of technique and gear; deepen their appreciation for the ethos and characters who make up the sport; understand how to tackle numerous challenges during a trail run; and develop the physical and mental tenacity to complete an ultra-distance trail race. Combining the storytelling and coaching expertise of the author, Sarah Lavender Smith, along with the insights of many pro trail runners, The Trail Runner's Companion delivers sophisticated, yet uncomplicated advice through a well-known and trusted personality in the sport of trail running. -Sarah Lavender Smith has long been one of trail running's finest and most insightful writers, and her first book, The Trail Runner's Companion, ties everything together for all trail runners, from newbies to veterans and all abilities in between. She expertly and empathetically describes how one should train, eat, drink, and think while becoming a trail runner. But perhaps most importantly of all, she tells us what it means to be a trail runner--why this journey, in her words, 'all the way up to the summit and back down, ' is worth the effort. If you already are a trail runner, The Trail Runner's Companion will make you want to become a better trail runner. If you aren't yet a trail runner, The Trail Runner's Companion will make you want to become one.- - John Trent, longtime ultrarunner, race director, Western States 100-Mile Endurance Run board member, and award-winning sportswriter -The Trail Runner's Companion is a must-have for all trail runners, both new and experienced. It brings a wealth of knowledge and entertaining stories to keep you engaged in the valuable content of the book. If only I had The Trail Runner's Companion to read before my first trail race, I could have avoided so many mistakes I highly recommend it.- - Kaci Lickteig, 2016 UltraRunning Magazine UltraRunner of the Year and Western States 100-Mile Endurance Run champion
Synopsis
The sport of trail running is booming as more runners seek more adventurous routes and a deeper connection with nature. Not only are runners taking to the trail, but a growing number are challenging themselves to go past the conventional 26.2-mile marathon point. The time is right for a book that covers everything a runner needs to safely and successfully run and race trails, from 5Ks to ultra distances. Like a trusted coach, The Trail Runner's Companion offers an inspiring, practical, and goal-oriented approach to trail running and racing. Whether readers are looking to up their distance or tackle new terrain, they'll find sophisticated, yet clear advice that boosts performance and enhances well-being. Along the way, they'll learn: -Trail-specific techniques and must-have gear -What to eat, drink, and think--before, during, and after any trail run -How to develop mental tenacity and troubleshoot challenges on longer trail adventures -Colorful commentary on the characters and culture that make the sport special With an engaging, encouraging voice, including tips and anecdotes from well-known names in the sport, The Trail Runner's Companion is the ultimate guide to achieving peak performance--and happiness-- out on the trails. "Sarah Lavender Smith has long been one of trail running's finest and most insightful writers, and her first book, The Trail Runner's Companion, ties everything together for all trail runners, from newbies to veterans and all abilities in between. She expertly and empathetically describes how one should train, eat, drink, and think while becoming a trail runner. But perhaps most importantly of all, she tells us what it means to be a trail runner--why this journey, in her words, 'all the way up to the summit and back down, ' is worth the effort. If you already are a trail runner, The Trail Runner's Companion will make you want to become a better trail runner. If you aren't yet a trail runner, The Trail Runner's Companion will make you want to become one." - John Trent, longtime ultrarunner, race director, Western States 100-Mile Endurance Run board member, and award-winning sportswriter "The Trail Runner's Companion is a must-have for all trail runners, both new and experienced. It brings a wealth of knowledge and entertaining stories to keep you engaged in the valuable content of the book. If only I had The Trail Runner's Companion to read before my first trail race, I could have avoided so many mistakes I highly recommend it." - Kaci Lickteig, 2016 UltraRunning Magazine UltraRunner of the Year and Western States 100-Mile Endurance Run champion