Running Like A Girl by Alexandra Heminsley

Running Like A Girl by Alexandra Heminsley
Buy Running Like A Girl by Alexandra Heminsley at Amazon.co.uk or Amazon.com
Category: Sport
Reviewer: Loralei Haylock
Summary: An honest and generous story of one woman's turbulent relationship with running that's ultimately uplifting and inspiring. Coupled with the tips she gives for how to get started - and keep going - this is guaranteed to get anyone who's been flirting with the idea of running off the sofa and out the door.
Buy? Yes	Borrow? Yes
Pages: 240	Date: January 2014
Publisher: Windmill Books
ISBN: 978-0099558958
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Running is awful. So starts Heminsley's book about running.

And she's not wrong.

Anyone who's ever braved the streets of their home town for a quick jog will know that running is one of the most unnatural, painful, horrible forms of exercise there is. And yet, there are people who swear by it, who run frequently, competing in 5ks, 10ks, half marathons, full marathons. If you've ever looked at people like that and thought they were crazy, this is definitely the book for you.

Because what Heminsley manages to capture so successfully is the emotional highs and lows of running. She's unflinchingly honest about her most embarrassing moments and because of this, her highs are all the more powerful. Her clear and precise writing giving voice to every feeling and emotion experienced, drawing you into the moment. As you read about her marathons, you'll feel almost as if you've been there, running right next to her.

As an inspiration to run, the book is perfect. Her bad moments let you know you aren't alone, they hold your hand when you're out pounding the pavement and feeling like hell, reminding you that it does get better. And the good moments are motivation to get out there in the first place.

Along with her inspirational story, Heminsley provides you with information about everything from how to buy trainers, what bras are the best for the busty and how to avoid, and deal with, injury. It's not completely comprehensive, by any stretch, but as a friendly beginner's guide, or even as tips for the slightly more experienced runner looking to take things to the next level, this has everything you need.

I'm a runner. I've done one 10k race around my hometown, though my general distance is 5k. I've always thought people who went much further than that were crazy. Reading Running Like a Girl got me thinking about half marathons in a curious, rather than scathing frame of mind. If you knew me, you would know I can give no higher praise than that!

My thanks to the publishers for sending a copy.

For another inspirational story about a woman in sport, try Taking on the World by Ellen MacArthur.

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You can read more book reviews or buy Running Like A Girl by Alexandra Heminsley at Amazon.co.uk Amazon currently charges £2.99 for standard delivery for orders under £20, over which delivery is free.

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