The Inner Runner: Running to a More Successful, Creative, and Confident You

Karp, an exercise physiologist and prolific author of running books (Running a Marathon for Dummies, etc.), offers a new outlook on running that is not outcome-based. Instead, he explores the sport’s emotional and philosophical components. Rather than explaining how to become faster, Karp narrows in on the ways that running can help runners to be more creative, productive, and successful. He begins by examining the reasons why humans run and then discusses, in individual chapters, various types of runs: “healthful,” “better,” “creative and imaginative,” “productive,” and “confident.” Karp explores potential health benefits, both for those with and without health complications; why slow runs are “good for becoming a better runner”; and how running can change the brain, prime intelligence, and equip one with the confidence to take risks in life. In the concluding chapter, Karp provides advice aimed at helping readers become better runners, covering topics such as commitment, focus, motivation, and belief. This thorough gem, filled with revealing anecdotes and easily comprehensible science, demonstrates that Karp wants his readers to become better people, not just better runners. (Apr.)