Description
Run the Way You Were Born to Run
Every runner wants a smooth, light, powerful, and resilient stride. But there isn’t one ideal form all runners should try to emulate. Instead, research and experience show that people can run effectively in a wide variety of patterns with some universal elements.
In lively, accessible prose, author Jonathan Beverly details his search for common ground among physical therapists, podiatrists, biomechanics researchers, and coaches, and reveals how individual runners can apply those principles and improve their performance, avoid injury, and enhance their enjoyment on the run.
With specific, illustrated exercises that show how to counteract tight muscles from excessive sitting, improve limited arm mobility from hunching over electronic devices, strengthen your feet for better balance, and improve speed by lengthening your stride, Runner’s World Your Best Stride is an approachable guide to human movement and a practical tool for improved running performance.
Scott Douglas (verified owner) –
Full disclosure: The author and I used to work together at Running Times. From this, I know that Jonathan is a fellow student of the sport, lifelong lover of running and hater of BS.
That’s to say that Jonathan has produced exactly the excellent guide to the whys and hows of running form that I thought he would. This deeply researched and informative book tells you everything you need to know about why good running form is so important, no matter what your running goals, and it provides clear guidelines on how to improve you form.
Two things that really separate this book from others on the topic: Jonathan’s focus on how the way that most of us spend our non-running hours harms how our bodies want to run, and simple do-at-home tests to determine where your body is most in need of improvement.
The how-to, prescriptive information is, like Jonathan, grounded in the real world, where most of us fit in our running the best we can around the many other pulls on our time. Jonathan’s main message here is that, like investing for retirement, small but frequent efforts compound over time to great effect.
If you’re like me, you probably often feel limited in your running not because of a lack of energy, and maybe not even time. Rather, you feel constrained mechanically, like your body is sometimes working against you rather than for you. Jonathan’s book will show you how to find and address your particular weaknesses so that, at the same level of effort, you’ll feel smoother, faster and freer while running. Who wouldn’t want that?
Terry Cockburn (verified owner) –
Your Best Stride is arguably the most pragmatic and up-to-date book there is on running technique. This comprehensive guide explores all aspects of optimal running form, with a rich education on why our movement patterns dictate how we run. Loaded with solid information and advice from some of the top names in running, this book is useful for any level of runner.
As a yoga teacher, run coach, and trainer, I appreciate the focus on functional body alignment, and the elucidation that all bodies are not created equal; with no golden standard in which to adhere to or strive for. The exercises in the book are intelligently sequenced, and presented in a way that are clear and easy to follow, with advice on how to fit them into your day. (squats while grinding coffee?? Genius!)
I find this book to be not only an extremely valuable resource, but a great motivator to add some of the practices and benchmarks into my running. Immediately after finishing, I handed my copy to my 15 year old son, as he embarks on his sophomore season of cross country, and plan to give the coach a copy, too!
Gordon Bakoulis (verified owner) –
Jonathan Beverly, the former editor-in-chief of Running Times, has been writing about running for over a quarter-century. This book distills his immense knowledge and wisdom about the sport and science of running and how to pursue it healthily—not just by improving our running form but by learning to move and position ourselves in space effectively throughout the day. Jonathan leads readers on a journey toward better running that draws on the expertise of scientists, coaches, physicians, and runners of all abilities. The book is grounded in the real world, which means that reading it is likely include frequent leaping up to try new exercises, postures, and even running techniques. Jonathan’s narration of the back-and-forth history of minimalist running footwear is especially fascinating. No matter what kind of runner or coach you are, you will find many ways to put the learnings in this book to excellent use.
Dave (verified owner) –
I just finished reading Your Best Stride, and found it to be the best resource I’ve come across for runners looking improve running mechanics and reduce injury risk. It was easy to read, well structured, and has useful takeaways that are easy to implement.
I am a running coach and while I understand the components of physical and mental training for runners, I shy away from changing runner mechanics because I’m afraid I’ll do more harm than good. I’ll be recommending this book regularly to the runners I coach.
RBNC (verified owner) –
This book provides a wonderful collection of insights and advice from various coaches, physical therapists, biomechanists, and other running specialists. The premise of the book is that good running form is individualized, but that there are things we can do to improve the way we run. With some smart work, we can become more efficient, stronger, and more resistant to injury. I’ve been running for many years, and I found several concepts and exercises in this book that will be helpful for my improvement journey.
Cheryl R. (verified owner) –
I enjoyed this book. It is easy to read and give common sense advice. Some is new and some is old, but never hurts to be reminded.
John C (verified owner) –
Easy to follow guidance on form stretching and strengthening.
Good2GoRun (verified owner) –
Great info!
Monica Poppe (verified owner) –
Great book to help “normal” runners improve overall form and running function! I’ve been applying all of the great advice and it has helped me immensely. A must have in every runners library.
mrdaverobbo (verified owner) –
Extremely thorough and informative collection of research, anecdotes, thoughts on running form and how to best improve it from some of the best minds in the business.
Runners of all levels of experience and ability really must read this book and act its advice to give themselves the best chance of running further, faster, easier and with less injuries (and way more enjoyment!).
As a running form coach myself I look forward to expanded on my current approaches using the material presented in this book.
Thank you and Run Better!
ks_comp (verified owner) –
Excellent book written for us non-elite (and never will be) runners. This book compiles a lot of information I’ve read in other places but it fits all the pieces together in a much better and understandable fashion. If you’re new to running or have experienced an overuse type injury (ITBS, plantar fasciitis, etc.) then it’s worth the money.
Mom in NC (verified owner) –
So far I’m really loving this book. Haven’t finished reading it yet, though.
Dayna Lorraine Smith (verified owner) –
Great book!!
Klemens (verified owner) –
Wer sich wirklich für das Laufen interressiert und dieses auch nicht nur als “Wochenendbetätigung” betreibt, dem wird dieses Buch einiges eröffnen. Nämlich worauf es beim Laufen wirklich ankommt und was neben Kilometerspulen zu beachten ist! Ein topaktuelles Buch mit neuestem Stand der Erkenntnisse!
P. Erickson (verified owner) –
I’m 77 years old and running a marathon in 10 days. I’ve changed five of my 45-year old running habits after reading this book. I’ll let you know.
Phil Erickson
O B (verified owner) –
The narrative is much the same as other running books, spoiler alert; our glutes are weak, the difference being with this book is that it actually gives you a compelling story as to why we should do strength work, so much so that it has changed my current training to sacrifice a proportion of my running time for this work. Lots of other books I’ve read (Chi Running, Born to Run, Run Better), whilst being mostly in the same vein about what correct form is, incorrectly (I believe) assume that we should all adhere to one running form despite the science pointing to the fact that doing so would make us inefficient due to our bio-mechanical/genetic differences. The real “aha!” moment for me was how it sells the idea that our running form is imperfect not because we’re doing it wrong but because our lifestyles have weakened muscles/core so much that we’re unable to run as we used to as kids, i.e. our version of right, which by definition is our most efficient running style. It’s not especially controversial in its views but I think the real game-changer is the way it inspires you to change the way you think about muscle weakness and potentially change the way you train. This book was a compelling read and I enjoyed every page.
Mattie S. (verified owner) –
Looking forward to implementing some of the advice in this book! Easy read and gives a very approachable way to improve your running game.
TMA (verified owner) –
Instead of yet another schedule of routines for running various distances, the author explores several neglected topics that are relevant to a typical recreational runner like me.
For me, the book’s most significant messages are about balance, body alignment, and proper footwear. Further, the author spends considerable time discussing how a sedantary life undermines proper form, and specifically addresses how to solve that problem.
James Lythgoe (verified owner) –
I came across some ideas in this book that I hadn’t considered before but am glad I am aware of them now. The exercises that are presented are definitely of value and if you are not doing them now you should be. I am an older runner and I have to do many of the exercises demonstrated in this book if I want to continue to run injury free. For anyone who wants to continue jogging injury free, yes read this book.
Dana McCarthy (verified owner) –
Bought this book for ideas about hip flexor and quad flexibility. The dynamic pre-run stretching, running posture and post-run stretches were very helpful. The author is frank about the practice and persistance needed to help improve form.
RUSH2112 (verified owner) –
Finally a book not filled with charts for completing a race of (place distance here.) It also avoids the endless recipes found in many fitness books.
It teaches form and performance. The foundation of proper running is key to any goal and this book will help you achieve that. Well written, easy to follow. If you want to run and would like to know the best way to use your body for performance this is a very good book.
Cathy (verified owner) –
Well written and well researched book that addresses the importance of several key factors to improve running form and efficiency in addition to decreasing the likelihood of common running injuries that I see in my office. This is easy to understand. Numerous pictures of evaluation tests and exercises provide valuable information for runners of all abilities.
Highly recommended.
TJJ (verified owner) –
Wow, who knew that an old guy could actually get faster and more efficient? I’ve been a long time runner who accepted the reality that personal bests were long gone. After listening to several podcasts featuring the author, I decided to buy the book. I have read lots of books on running. There is usually a message of what you “have” to do, or how you “have” to do it. Not so much the case here, and that is why it is such a great book for me. It is well written, with excellent diagrams, and most importantly for me; the “why’s” are well explained. The recommendations are easy to follow and attainable. There were also a lot of myths dispelled for me in this book. I have implemented several of the ideas and have already seen significant improvements in my time. But more importantly, several of those aches and pains that plague an older runner have disapated. Thats important for me, because I may never be speedy, but I can see improvement and avoid injury. A great read.
D. Deloso (verified owner) –
Great book. Easyto apply. So helpful to me.
Brandon Davis (verified owner) –
This is by far the best toolkit any runner can add to their repertoire whether you are a beginner or a veteran . Discipline and motivation coupled with the advice outlined in this book will unlock new levels in the most seasoned runner!
Larkmom (verified owner) –
Exactly what I needed. To the point and well-researched. I like the exercises outlined in the book as well – very well written. Highly recommended for anyone interested in improving their running both intellectually and physically.
Adolfo S. (verified owner) –
Even though I am a seasoned runner, this book has improved my running. Not only the form but the understanding of it, the why in each segment of the frame. And it is all explained in layman terms. Easy to understand. No need to have a degree in anatomy to figure out what to do and how to apply it.
After my last marathon I read the book and started applying the concepts and suggestions. Within no time I started running faster with the same effort as before. My heel striking has started to slowly shift to a midfoot strike just by tilting my pelvis. Following the suggested exercises my glutes have been getting stronger and I feel the difference every day.
Thank you so much for the book. I has been awesome. I hope more runners can benefit from its insight.
Peter J Schichtel (verified owner) –
This book is awesome. It has really improved my running.
RBC (verified owner) –
Lots of valuable insights here
Jerry W. (verified owner) –
Was okay
Roland (verified owner) –
I have not finished the book yet, but put the ideas and suggestions of the first chapters into use and could clearly improve my stride and my running style. It took a bit of effort and some time before I could see first results – the author points out that one can not undo a life time of bad habits in no time – but I am impressed by what I see now. My better stride (I assume that by making use of the remaining techniques and ideas of the later chapters I can further improve my stride) makes running easier and more fun. I can recommend this book to any runner.
ted Greenberg (verified owner) –
Great multitasking tips
charlie cocroft (verified owner) –
I’m already performing better by standing tall and sitting up straight. I’m sure different chapters will come to mind as I am running, or trying to, and better, more fluid running will follow.
Thanks!
pochang,chen (verified owner) –
Best boos to explain all the mysteries about running form.And how to improve it
lake (verified owner) –
A very frank and candid approach to improving running technique that moves away from the insistence of “foot strike”. It addresses issues with posture that help to strengthen and improve all related aspects of the running technique. A very easy and thoroughly interesting read!!
E. Lester (verified owner) –
If u r reading this book Jay Dicharry is also another great running mechanics author, running rewired.
C. WANG (verified owner) –
A must read for endurance and frequent runners. I train hard and often injure myself which I believe most like due to my running form. I’m sure this book will sit in front of my desk for a very long time, next to my aging Hanson’s Method.
Though I wish it comes with videos. Sometimes, words can’t express well.
Dinesh (verified owner) –
Learnt a lot from this book and hoping to improve my running. Simple, effective without getting too technical. Good work.
Jeff B. (verified owner) –
I loved this book. The information provided was easy to understand and follow and is perfect for the beginner to the advanced. I learned a lot about form, stretching, and running in general which has allowed me to progress with not only distance, but becoming faster as well.
It’s an excellent resource which I will be referring to often. Highly recommend.
Tracy (verified owner) –
I waited for a couple of months before buying this book in order to verify it’s quality. I even emailed the author with questions. When I finally bought the book I gobbled it up like a Thanksgiving turkey. I plan to read this book over & over til I sustain a repetitive use injury :). This book has the type of information in it that will be valid for years to come. It also covers all of the aspects of running with the exception of AFIB. Maybe we will see that critical topic covered in a future release. If you wish to stay injury free then you can do that by running more efficiently which happens to make running more enjoyable. Do not worry about having to think about more factors while trying to relax during a run. Jonathan explains them with your ease and comfort in mind. He even explains in excellent detail how to get over this perceived psychological hurdle. I personally am enjoying thinking like Galen Rupp, Meb and the other running superstars past and present that he mentions. To all running book authors past and present please read and take heed.
ShowMeMo (verified owner) –
Readable and understandable. Explains the consequences of too much sitting and provides ideas and exercises to address the problems. Focuses on improving posture and balance.
Daniel Gonzalez (verified owner) –
The best running form book I have read.
Wolfgang (verified owner) –
Cooles Buch mit viel Information
KW (verified owner) –
Reassuring
Peter Vu (verified owner) –
The book is really easy to understand. It goes to every details of the running from forms to shoes. The tips are easily applied and the best thing I like is: it does not take much of your time pre/post run (5 minutes) to improve your running. I also know more clearly (how and why should I) about using glute, hip extension, knee drive during running.
Katrina (verified owner) –
This book has been so helpful to think about posture, and running form and includes different stretches and excercises to do as well. thoroughly enjoying!
Altoria (verified owner) –
Bought as a gift. Teenager loved it
S. A. Corral Quintana (verified owner) –
Clear And very helpful book on running.
A must for serious (or not) runners
Laurie (verified owner) –
I’m new to running and this book was full of useful information. Definitely recommend
Carroll Thronesbery (verified owner) –
The advice is practical and well-articulated. I really like the fact that he cites lots of empirical studies and quotes lots of expert runners and coaches.
pintxoff (verified owner) –
Todavía no lo he leído entero, aporta valiosa información junto a numerosos ejercicios para corregir la postura. De momento resulta complicado aplicar la parte técnica a la carrera de manera constante ya que,como todos los vicios posturales, se requiere tiempo.
J. M. Rodriguez Valle (verified owner) –
I love it
R.M. (verified owner) –
This book has opened my eyes past the every day thinking of improving your running speed and running injury free. It gives you multiple ways to improve yourself as a runner using step by step small changes. It’s well worth the read!
jmac99 (verified owner) –
this book is very informative. I highly recommend it to anyone who needs knowledge of the proper running form and insight into core and lower body dynamic strength work. I have been an active runner for 25 years. I wish I found this book 10 years ago.
Wayne (verified owner) –
This is a well organized, clearly written book that presents the highlights of what is most accepted, best researched running knowledge. It separates what the present facts seem to be from what has been proven to be fiction. A reader will get clear descriptions of problems, instructions to self diagnose those problems and methods to eliminate or mitigate them. Other books referenced in “Best Stride” cover the same ground in more detail, but there is probably enough here to help a lot.
Sean Klingler (verified owner) –
I will be using the exercises in here to make my Crew team better runners. They need this for cross training.
dylan jones (verified owner) –
Probably one of the best fonts of running knowledge available. If you want to improve your form you need this book.