I've been running for over 20 years. I am, and alway have been, competitive; but I also just love to run as part of my day to day life. I guess I've been lucky, as not to have ever been sidelined for long periods with injuries through the years. I've always known my form was never that great, and frequently slipped into periods of good form, and periods of not so good form. In the past few years (I'm 45 now), I decided I wanted to refine my form, so that I can still run (efficiently) as the body starts it's natural decline related to age. That is to say, I know the older I get, the less "the luck" will keep me running healthy.
I began studying Chi Running, Evolution running, Pose running, Alexander Technique, barefoot running, and several others. It should be noted that all of these have many factors in common, though they all go about it in slightly different ways. I have made significant progress since I have started to adopt these techniques. Less effort, quicker recovery, no injuries, more natural stride, and starting to see quicker times again (times and pace took a back seat while re-learning the basics).
All that said, this book could save someone a lot of time researching and studying all these different options out there. Now I would like to add, if you have the desire and time, it's still worth reading up on all these other techniques. I feel I learned bits and pieces from everything I've read and seen. However, if you are like most, you will appreciate this book, as it does a fantastic job of teaching the common denominators of all these techniques.
I honestly believe ALL runners - escpecially those starting out, should read this book. Even if you just take a few things from it, it's well worth it. There's not a lot of extra material here, so it's not an intimidating read; it's meant for everyone.
Buy the book. Run better and keep away from injuries, for the rest of your life.
