I was in need of an excerise program that was simple and consistent. I knew that running fit the bill, but had tried a few times in the past to begin but years of inactivity -- I had been a runner 10 years prior -- made each attempt a frustrating one. I reached a point where I had to have a detailed step-by-step program to help re-establish a running routine. This led me to search the 'Running for Dummies' genere. This book is the best of the lot. It takes you from ground zero to a 10k in 13 weeks -- provided you are in good health. If you are not, the authors address that issue too. They are very keen on making running something you ease into as they contend this allows your body to adapt to a sport than can be a shock to the system when rushed -- don't I know it! :-(

I used it to prepare for the Peachtree Road Race here in Atlanta. Its a wonderful program and there is even an additional 13 week 'intermediate' program to help you continue the process along with a lot of other fun tips and tricks!

If you want to start a running program, get your hands on this book today!

I started tentatively, being 85 pounds overweight, a smoker, a couch potato, and an overeater (obviously), with bad knees and a bad back but I knew I had to do SOMETHING to start participating in my own life and destiny. If you're in a similar spot, and you've gotten as far as "What", this book is a tool that will give you the "Hows."

Written economically and informally, it's packed with information beginning runners and walkers need, from stretching and shoe selection to injury prevention. The heart of the program is an easy-to-follow schedule that starts slow (run 30 seconds, then walk 4:30, and repeat seven times your first day) and builds every week. The plan is flexible, simple, and requires nothing more than a watch, a pair of shoes, and your commitment to yourself three times per week. If you're completely sedentary, you can start with the 13-week walk program to build your stamina before taking on running. And there's an intermediate program, when you're done with your first 13 weeks of running and looking for the "next cut."

At the end of thirteen weeks, I was running 65 minutes without stopping, I had shed 35 pounds, I avoided injury and felt BETTER than when I started. I was having FUN! I realized that completing the program was about far more than running -- I had a grip on my destiny, and I was participating in life, not just watching everyone else. I realized, in my bones, that I can do ANYTHING, and breathing hard three times a week seemed a small price to pay for that. Now I look forward to my runs, and haven't missed a running day since I started over a year ago, and all 85 extra pounds are gone for good. If you're committed to yourself, this book is the tool you need.

I had run several 5K's, but had never figured out how to ramp up to a 10K. Running over 3.1 miles just seemed insurmountable. So after starting a running program and giving up several times, I found this book, and decided to give running a 10K one more shot. After 15 weeks (my race didn't time out perfectly with the program) I finished my first 10K! And I didn't finish last!

If you are dedicated in your desire to run a 10K, this book takes you through all the steps you need to accomplish your goal. It even had a training log, so you can keep track of your accomplishments, day by day. With the book and your race bib, in the end you have a great souvenir.

One final note, the training gets pretty intense at week 10, and ramps up quickly to race day. If you aren't in the best shape (I wasn't) it can get frustrating, so you may want to give yourself a couple of extra weeks to slow down the pace a little during weeks 10, 11 and 12.

If you decide to give the program a try, best of luck to you!