Book Review: “Brain Training for Runners” by Matt Fitzgerald

The Dallas White Rock Marathon is 180 days from today.  In preparation for this race, I read Matt Fitzgerald’s “Brain Training for Runners.”  The whole premise of the book is that much of what we thought we understood about running and fatigue is in fact not quite accurate.  Fitzgerald attempts to describe the scientific events going on in our body while we run.  From this new information, he devises a new way to train, run, and prepare for a race.

In reality, much of what he says is already known through trial and error over decades and centuries of running, but he has several good points that I think runners should implement into their training.  To his credit, he provides the background behind different training programs and simplifies the process of running a certain pace during a specific type of workout.

Aside from the fact that he mentioned “evolutionary design” instead of something like “design by our Creator,” I did not like the book because it seems a little premature.  It is almost as if Fitzgerald wanted to be the first on the market with a book detailing the new discoveries in running.  I do not doubt that a better book will come along.

However, I did enjoy the book for several reasons, and I consider it a worthwhile read (although you should read The Ultimate Marathon Guide by Hal Higdon first).  He discusses the importance of proper stretching, sitting posture, and appropriate shoes to prevent injuries.

The shoes that we have come to characterize as best, may not in fact be the best at all.  Significant amounts of scientific research is being produced that shows we should actually run barefoot.  My brother and his future brother-in-law have already begun wearing a shoe that is as close to barefoot as you can get.  The Vibram Five Fingers has very little weight, preventing you from overstriding and causing damage to your joints.  It turns out we do not need as much support and cushion as we have come to believe and know.  I actually ran next to a guy that ran the White Rock Marathon completely barefoot.  (If you want more information there are a lot of great resources on the web.)

Overall, I think if you are looking for a new running workout, specifically because you are experiencing some common running injuries, then this book might be worth your time.  Otherwise, ask me if you want clarification or additional insight into the book and save yourself the time.