10 Best Running Books 2025 in the United States

Daniels' Running Formula is a well-regarded guide in the running community, authored by Jack Daniels, a highly respected exercise physiologist and coach. His expertise is evident throughout the book, which provides detailed, scientifically-backed training plans suitable for runners of various levels, from beginners to advanced athletes. The book's target audience is mainly adult runners (18 years and up) who are committed to improving their performance and understanding the science behind their training.

The training plans are comprehensive and customizable, offering clear explanations and structured schedules that are easy to follow. Additionally, the book includes motivational content to keep readers inspired and focused on their goals. Technical information is presented in an accessible manner, making complex concepts understandable without overwhelming the reader.

The physical dimensions of the book (7 x 0.9 x 9.9 inches) and its weight (1.4 pounds) make it a convenient size for reading or carrying to the gym. Published by Human Kinetics, the fourth edition is current as of March 2021, ensuring updated content. While it may not appeal to casual joggers looking for light reading, dedicated runners seeking to enhance their training regimen will find it highly beneficial.

'How Bad Do You Want It?: Mastering the Psychology of Mind over Muscle' is written by Matt Fitzgerald, a well-regarded author in the field of endurance sports. His expertise is evident as he blends psychological principles with athletic performance, making the book a valuable read for runners and athletes looking to enhance their mental toughness. The target audience spans from amateur runners to seasoned athletes, as the book addresses common mental challenges faced during training and competition.

One of the book's strengths is its motivational content, which is woven throughout the narratives of various athletes' experiences. This storytelling approach can inspire readers to push through their own mental barriers. On the technical side, the book does not offer specific training plans, which might be a drawback for those looking for concrete guidance to incorporate into their routines. Instead, it focuses more on the psychological aspects of training. The technical information on sports psychology is accessible yet insightful, making complex ideas understandable for most readers.

'How Bad Do You Want It?' excels in its motivational and psychological insights, making it a worthwhile read for those looking to strengthen their mental game in running and other endurance sports.

Runner's World How to Make Yourself Poop: And 999 Other Tips All Runners Should Know offers a comprehensive and light-hearted collection of tips for runners, covering a wide array of topics. Written by experts from Runner's World, it brings a wealth of knowledge and practical advice that resonates with both beginners and seasoned runners. The book's primary strength lies in its engaging and humorous approach, which makes complex and common running issues more accessible and less intimidating. This approach can be particularly motivating and enjoyable for readers who might find traditional training guides too dry or technical.

The book is designed for a broad audience, including both casual joggers and competitive athletes, providing valuable insights and training tips that cater to various levels of experience. The inclusion of 1,000 tips ensures that there's something useful for everyone, regardless of their running goals or expertise level. While the book excels in providing motivational content and practical advice, it may not offer in-depth technical training plans or highly detailed scientific explanations that some advanced runners might seek.

Additionally, the paperback format and its relatively lightweight nature make it portable and easy to carry around, which is a plus for those who like to read on the go.