It doesn’t matter if you’re a seasoned runner with a marathon (or more) behind you, a casual jogger who gets out a couple of times a week, or someone who’s just starting your journey to get off the couch and start your running journey. There’s something transformative about a good running book. From memoirs and novels to practical guides, the best running books offer a blend of motivation, insight, and enjoyment. So, we put together a list that captures the sport’s spirit and helps you hit the ground running.
The Best Running Books: Inspiring Memoirs & Biographies
This iconic book follows McDougall’s epic journey into the Copper Canyons of Mexico, where he discovers the reclusive Tarahumara tribe—known for their incredible distance-running abilities. Born to Run is a story of endurance, biomechanics, and the joy of running that combines scientific insights with a gripping adventure. This book has inspired countless runners and remains a must-read for its message of embracing running as a natural human ability.
“Fiendishly well-written, amusing, and deeply touching. This book can be enjoyed by runners and non-runners alike. It reads like the cracking adventure story that it is but packs in wisdom, intrigue, and some hard science to boot. I loved this book. It has inspired me to make pinole to fuel my own ultras. Essential reading for all pedestrians.”
Jason, via Amazon.com
What I Talk About When I Talk About Running by Haruki Murakami
Internationally acclaimed author Haruki Murakami offers a meditative journey into the mind of a runner and writer. Through his experiences in marathons, triathlons, and everyday runs, Murakami shares the mental strength, discipline, and introspection that come with long-distance running. His beautifully crafted prose and vivid recollections make this memoir a reflective, philosophical read for runners and non-runners alike. Sometimes funny, sometimes sobering, this book elevates the need we, as humans, have for movement.
“One is a runner, not because of an interest to be fit or appear a certain way, but because of the delightful acquiescence to our evolutionary drive to adapt to resistance. Murakami lays that bare here for all to understand and realize in themselves.”
David F., via Amazon.com
Rich Roll’s memoir is a deeply personal account of transformation—from an unhealthy, middle-aged man to an elite ultra-endurance athlete. Roll’s story touches on mental resilience, plant-based nutrition, and the surprising power of change. Finding Ultra provides both motivation and actionable steps for those seeking a healthier lifestyle, proving it’s truly never too late to find your path.
“This book changed my life. I was going through a complicated period in my life. Overweight, didn’t love my job, no purpose in life, etc. Rich Roll was my inspiration to regain control of my life and change everything.”
Rodrigo M., via Amazon.com
The Best Running Books: Novels About Running
Once a Runner: A Novel by John L. Parker Jr.
Dubbed a classic in the running community, Once a Runner tells the story of Quenton Cassidy, a competitive runner who sacrifices everything to train for his sport. This fictional yet realistic portrayal of the mental and physical demands of running resonates deeply with competitive athletes. Parker’s novel is as much about the grit of training as it is about personal growth, making it a cult favorite.
“As a modest runner myself who is chasing my own goal, this book is inspiring. It truly captures the sacrifices that are required to achieve your goal.”
Ronan, via Amazon
The Running Dream by Wendelin Van Draanen
This inspiring young adult novel centers around Jessica, a high school runner who loses her leg in a car accident. As she grapples with her new reality, Jessica’s determination to run again becomes a powerful tale of resilience. The Running Dream is a hopeful, uplifting story about overcoming obstacles and finding strength within.
“I really loved this book! Very well written with amazing detail about this young woman’s journey from tragedy to triumph. It should be required reading for all teens.”
Margo, via Amazon.com
The Best Running Books: Training & Performance Enhancement
Daniels’ Running Formula by Jack Daniels
Jack Daniels, a renowned running coach, presents science-based training programs for runners of all levels. His Running Formula is highly adaptable, with plans to suit everyone from beginners to elite athletes. Referred to as “the world’s best running coach,” Daniels’ training approach has helped hundreds of thousands of runners. His training is rooted in years of coaching experience, making it one of the most trusted resources for structured running improvements.
“Hands down the best book on running.”
Paolo, via Amazon.com
Running Rewired: Reinvent Your Run for Stability, Strength, and Speed by Jay Dicharry
Written by a leading physical therapist and biomechanics expert, Running Rewired focuses on exercises and strength routines to optimize your running form and reduce the risk of injury. It includes extensive self-tests to see where your body is in terms of joint mobility, stability, and alignment and then provides specific exercises to fix blocks and improve power. Dicharry’s cutting-edge approach is scientific, practical, and aimed at improving running efficiency through mobility and strength training, promising results within six weeks.
“This book has been very helpful for me. I struggled with one problem with my posture that had me struggling… One tip in this book was a game changer for me, and my times have been improving since I read the book. I now refer back to it regularly.”
Elizabeth L., via Amazon
The Science of Running: How to Find Your Limit and Train to Maximize Your Performance by Steve Magness
A comprehensive guide to the biomechanics, psychology, and physiology of running, The Science of Running tackles how different training methods affect performance and provides a roadmap for peak conditioning. Magness’ scientific yet accessible approach makes this book invaluable for serious runners who want to optimize their training using research-backed techniques.
“I liked this book a lot to learn more about training… There is a fair amount of more creative ideas or arguments that you don’t see in other books, which I found especially refreshing/enjoyable.”
Ryan, via Amazon.com
Your Next Read
Whether you’re looking for motivation, practical tips, or an inspiring story, these books deliver the depth and diversity found in the world of running. Each offers a unique perspective of the running community to provide inspiration and training techniques.
Reading at the end of a long day, on rest days, or grabbing an audiobook for long runs can keep you inspired and entertained as you connect with the world of running. So, either kick back or lace up, dive in, and let these books motivate you every step of the way.