for the non-runner (by Happy Skywalker

The Non-Runner’s Marathon Trainer By David A Whitsett, Forrest A. Dolgener, and Tanjala Mabon Kole Reviewed by Happy Skywalker

“If you listen to what others say, you may not try at all. If you listen to your body, you may quit too soon. What your mind believes, your body believes. Your mind is the key.” — David Whitsett, The Non-Runner’s Marathon Trainer

About the Book

The first thing you may notice about this book is that it’s not a new release. In fact, it was originally published in 1998. I picked it to review not because it’s popular, but because it’s the book I used before completing my first marathon, in 2009. And I loved it.

This guide delivers a specific training plan, working all the way from non-runner to marathon finisher. There’s one chapter of inspiration and information tailored to each week of training. This format is especially helpful in keeping new information manageable, timely and relevant to your runs.

The weekly lessons are both mental and physical. The authors teach mental toughness, tools for acting with self confidence, visualization, and dealing with “the wall.” Also picking out running clothes, physical form, nutrition and sleep. Seemingly all the bases are covered.

But there’s still more! There are entries from other new runners going through the same program to reassure you, talk about their experiences and offer their wisdom. I found this to be affirming and supportive on hard weeks. Some of these can feel very personal and familiar.

You’ll love this book if: you’re thinking of doing your first marathon, and you need a little guidance and support. And by “doing” I mean finishing, not running. You won’t love this book if: Your focus is speed, you literally are uninterested in marathon distance, or you’ve been running longer distances for a while.

About the Author

David A Whitsett and Forrest A Dolegener taught a class together at the University of Northern Iowa called “Fitness and Mental Health”, that was commonly called “the marathon class.” Tanjala Mabon Kole was a student in one of their classes.

Most students had never run 3 miles, but out of over 200 students who took the class, only one didn’t finish the distance on race day. The authors compiled the data taken from classes to learn insights as they went.

This book is available in paperback or ebook.