Booklist Review
Approximately 50-million Americans run regularly, according to one 2020 report. Not a huge surprise, considering that the activity is healthy, easily accessible, and inexpensive. Science journalist and recreational runner van Sprudel examines conventional running wisdom, probing many traditions, rituals, and assumptions. Her topics include the evolution of human running, biomechanics, different kinds of running shoes and running barefoot, supplements, stretching, sports nutrition, and the psychology of athletic performance. Runners may have different motivations: fitness, weight loss, stress relief, competitiveness, pleasure, or some combination. Training is a balancing act; running too fast, too far, and too frequently can be a recipe for overuse injuries. The science of the sport is intriguing. Is there an optimal running physique? Is there a "secret" to speed? One gene (ACTN3) has been linked to velocity and power, another gene (ACE) is associated with stamina. Running is certainly advantageous for physical and mental well-being. While most of the ground covered in this well-researched discussion is hardly revolutionary, wannabes and runners of all levels should be engaged by this expert investigation of their favorite activity.