It's the simplest, fastest, most accessible way to fitness and good health known to woman. You don't need a partner, equipment, or even much time. Now, Claire Kowalchik, former managing editor of Runner's World magazine, answers every question about the overwhelmingly popular activity that builds endurance, melts fat, and even prevents illness. In this total running book for women, you'll learn:

• How to get started and stay motivated

• What to eat for optimal nutrition

• How to run during pregnancy and after menopause

• Why running is the most effective form of exercise

• How to prevent and treat injury

• What to wear -- from sports bras to running shoes

• How to prepare for everything from a 5K to a marathon

Authoritative and friendly, The Complete Book of Running for Women is a sourcebook for both beginners and long-time runners. Along with wisdom drawn from the author's personal experience, you'll find advice from the experts: coaches, exercise physiologists, nutritionists, doctors, and other women runners. Including question-and-answer sections and a complete list of resources, The Complete Book of Running for Women tells you everything you need to know to be off and running toward better health and richer living.

This is not to say she promotes a meat- or dairy- oriented diet (like Atkins)-- she basically promotes the food pyramid, but does not seem very open to or informed about the advantages of a more vegetable-soy oriented diet, which is widely touted by nutrition experts as quite healthy and safe. For those serious about nutrition, I would skip this chapter of the book.


A permanent fixture on my nightstand!   November 24, 1999
 38 out of 40 found this review helpful

This is a great book for runners of every level! Not only does Claire take you through shopping for shoes, bras and treadmills, she explains how running is affected by menapause, pregnancy.. she talks about eating disorders and proper nutrition.. What i like the best is all the training information. How to do pace workouts, speed drills, strides, how to breathe and how do weighlift.. A great book overall!


Buy it, use it, change your life   October 15, 2004
 37 out of 39 found this review helpful

I used this book to start running again after a fourteen year hiatus. The beginner's schedule for running/walking is what got me going (don't forget a sports watch)--the anecdotes and stories written by other women kept me inspired. I've long since lost this book because I've lent it out so many times, but I recommend it to every woman who tells me they'd like to start, in fact, I did just this morning which is why I looked it up on Amazon. It's been seven years since I hit the road, and now I run four miles every other day. It's changed and strengthened my body, increased my stamina, provided a clear space in my mind and allowed me to get to know myself better. Give it a try! You have nothing to lose and many things to gain.