By: Christopher McDougall
Rating: 5 stars (easily)
This book was singlehandedly the best book I’ve read all year, and one of the best I’ve ever read. So first, a huge thank you to our friend Michael, who gave us this book last year.
This book tells the story of the Tarahumara Indians, a native population who live in Mexico’s Copper Canyons, and who for years, had been merely mythical in the running community. Tales had been told of their speed, stamina, and culture, setting them apart as a reclusive community who enjoy running hundreds of miles without rest, and being able to run down a deer–all without illness or injury.
I loved that the book was a combination of true story, adventure, anthropology, and culture study. Every page kept my attention, and I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know the Tarahumara through McDougall’s book.
This book made me think about and question what I “know” about running as it exists in today’s culture. The biomechanics, the nutrition, the gear, the philosophy–everything. I’ve enjoyed pondering these things in the context of the book. Who knows? Maybe I’ll share my ponderings soon.
Definitely worth a read–in fact, it should be at the top of your lists.
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