Running Dialog
By
Woody Green
of
RUNNERS NICHE
Two very different books on running training have appeared
on the market, and each has its own appeal.
"Running Dialog" is written by David Holt, an English 31-
minute 10 K runner and registered Nurse. The 282-page book
is sub-titled "A Humorous Look at How to Train... From the
5 K to the Marathon, Beginner to Expert."
Holt avoids the common text book format used so frequently
in training advice books. While he provides a fair amount
of scientific explanation about the physiology of running,
it is done in a light, humorous manner. An outer-space
alien with training tips and several cartoons all add to
the comical presentation.
The book begins with an explanation of how to form a sound
training foundation, with an emphasis on how beginners
should start off. From there he adds training components
such as long runs, speedwork, tempo runs and intervals. He
also explains the possible benefits of strength work,
resistance training and cross-training. Finally he sums up
the strictly running portion of the book with racing
preparation and strategy.
The book continues with advice on diet, injury prevention,
special considerations for marathon runners and several
extra topics. Finally there are a few fun to read essays at
the end of the book.
A nice feature is the side bar pieces sprinkled throughout
the book from coaches, runners and writers such as Roy
Benson, John Babington, Scott Douglas, and many others.
Hult has certainly done a good job of presenting a large
amount of training guidance in a relatively compact
package. As with any training advice book, Hult has certain
training recommendations that are somewhat uniquely his.
The main concepts and ideas, however, are strictly
scientific in origin and any runner will benefit from
reading this work.
If there is a weakness, I believe that it can become a bit
difficult to follow each training scheme as it is presented
in a narrative format. Hult seldom presents training
information in table or outline form, and the detailed text
explanations can be hard to plow through. Of course, this
may be an attribute for certain people who prefer a less
academic feel to their reading.
Hult deserves credit for trying something new, and this
book is a good addition to the library of either an
experienced veteran or a new, first time runner.
RUNNER'S NICHE BOOK RATING: 4 out of a possible 5 winged
feet.
