With spring temperatures finally beginning to arrive, it’s time for us to dust off our sneakers and head back outside. Whether you’re in need of a little boost to help you get back into a training mentality or just want some entertainment for a rainy April day, these books are sure to inspire your inner athlete and get you back on your A game.
If You’re Chasing a PR:
Let Your Mind Run: A Memoir of Thinking My Way to Victory by Deeana Kastor & Michelle Hamilton
As a young runner, Deena Kastor held tremendous promise, yet her career was almost cut short by a toxic blend of competitiveness, frustration and negativity. After moving to Alamosa, Colorado, she met legendary coach Joe Vigil, and discovered that by changing her way of thinking, she could become faster than ever. In her book “Let Your Mind Run,” Olympic medalist and American record-holder Deeana Kastor shares how changing your mindset and focusing on positivity can cultivate a healthy competitive edge.
If You Need a Good Stretch:
Stretching isn’t always the first thing on our minds, but focusing a small portion of our time on it can have major benefits. In his book “Better Stretching,” Joe Yoon―a certified personal trainer whose clientele includes Olympic gold medalists, world champions and NFL stars―offers his tips and techniques for greater mobility and enhanced performance. Plus, his methods only require a few minutes at a time. Whether you’re completely new to stretching or a world-class athlete, Yoon’s book caters to readers of all levels.
If You’re Feeling Water-Logged:
Silver Lining by Elizabeth Beisel & Beth Fehr
When Elizabeth Beisel watched the Olympics for the first time at age 7, she decided right then and there that she would compete in the Games one day. Now, the three-time Olympic swimmer, two-time Olympic medalist and Olympic Team captain for the United States is sharing her journey toward becoming one of the best athletes in the world—and the struggles that came with it.
If You’re Hungry:
Run Fast. Cook Fast. Eat Slow. by Shalane Flanagan & Elyse Kopecky
If you’re constantly on the run, you may not have as much time as you’d like to cook wholesome, healthy meals. Luckily, Olympian Shalane Flanagan and chef Elyse Kopecky are here to help. Their follow-up cookbook to “Run Fast. Eat Slow.” focuses on offering easy and flavorful recipes that can be pulled together quickly. From post-run recovery breakfasts to 30-minutes-or-less dinner recipes, all of Flanagan and Kopecky’s meals are nutritious, delicious and perfect for feeding solo runners or the whole family.
If You’re Going the Distance:
26 Marathons: What I Learned About Faith, Identity, Running, and Life from My Marathon Career by Meb Keflezighi
Over the course of his 26-marathon career, Meb Keflezighi became the first person in history to win both the Boston and New York City marathons, as well as an Olympic marathon medal. In his book, “26 Marathons,” Keflezighi reflects on the unique challenges, rewards and outcomes of his races and the wisdom he gleaned along the way. With everything from nutrition and training tips to personal stories of family and faith, Keflezighi offers readers equal parts practical advice and inspiration.
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