Extreme sports Books

Book SynopsisAt the heart of Born to Run lies a mysterious tribe of Mexican Indians, the Tarahumara, who live quietly in canyons and are reputed to be the best distance runners in the world; in 1993, one of them, aged 57, came first in a prestigious 100-mile race wearing a toga and sandals. A small group of the world's top ultra-runners (and the awe-inspiring author) make the treacherous journey into the canyons to try to learn the tribe's secrets and then take them on over a course 50 miles long. With incredible energy and smart observation, McDougall tells this story while asking what the secrets are to being an incredible runner. Travelling to labs at Harvard, Nike, and elsewhere, he comes across an incredible cast of characters, including the woman who recently broke the world record for 100 miles and for her encore ran a 2:50 marathon in a bikini, pausing to down a beer at the 20 mile mark.Trade ReviewAmazing, really incredibly inspiring book -- Joe WicksQuite simply the best book you'll ever read about running - it's brilliant, and brilliantly life-affirming. -- Lloyd Bradley, author of The Rough Guide to RunningA classic ... in ultrarunners McDougall uncovers a tribe worthy of the pioneering drifters that fired the American spirit, and in McDougall ultrarunners have found their own Kerouac or Krakauer. -- Tim Butcher, author of Blood RiverReaches the state of bliss that runners very occasionally experience in the midst of an endless run. -- Simon Kuper * FT *Fascinating stuff, particularly for anyone who's ever been frustrated by the apparently shoddy mechanics of their own running body. -- Victoria Moore * Daily Mail *A sensation ... a rollicking tale well told -- Rick Broadbent * The Times *Part how-to manual, part scientific treatise but throughout a ripping yarn, this book will inspire everyone who reads it to think on their feet. -- Simon Redfern * Independent on Sunday *If you're a runner, you probably won't reach the end of the first chapter without bolting for the door to get some miles behind you. * Leeds Guide *[A] major voice of a new movement. -- Bernard Goldberg * HBO *Good books about running are rare - Haruki Murakami's What I Talk About When I Talk About Running is a meditative jog compared to this blistering endurance tester - but this ranks among the strongest. -- Julian Fleming * Sunday Business Post *Utterly unputdownable ... a fascinating peek into the lives of the publicity-shy Tarahumara and the collection of misfits who populate the world of ultra-running ... the final race in Mexico's Copper Canyon will have you turning pages faster than Usain Bolt can run for a bus. -- Natasha Young * Wanderlust *If you're a runner, you'll love it. It's about how far we can go spiritually and physically. -- Kate Hudson, Actress * Elle *Inspiring stuff -- Amy Lawrenson * Elle *I read Born to Run last year and it affected me profoundly. I thought, "F*** it. I'm gonna run a marathon." -- Flea (of Red Hot Chili Peppers) * Runner's World *Loved this book ... completely wonderful. It will inspire you whether you're already a runner or not. -- Lauren Laverne * Twitter *

Read more less

Book SynopsisFrom the author of the international Bestseller Breath Covering a diving championship in Greece on a hot and sticky assignment for Outside magazine, James Nestor discovered free diving. He had stumbled on one of the most extreme sports in existence: a quest to extend the frontiers of human experience, in which divers descend without breathing equipment, for hundreds of feet below the water, for minutes after they should have died from lack of oxygen. Sometimes they emerge unconscious, or bleeding from the nose and ears, and sometimes they don't come up at all. The free divers were Nestor's way into an exhilarating and dangerous world of deep-sea pioneers, underwater athletes, scientists, spear fishermen, billionaires and ordinary men and women who are poised on the brink of some amazing discoveries about the ocean. Soon he was visiting the scientists who live 60ft underwater (and are permanently high on nitrous dioxide), swimming with the notorious man-eating sharks of Réunion and descending thousands of feet in a homemade submarine. And on the way down, he learnt about the amazing amphibious reflexes activated in the human body under deep-water conditions, why dolphins were injected with LSD in an attempt to teach them to talk, and why sharks like AC/DC. The sea covers seventy per cent of Earth's surface, and still contains answers to questions about the world we are only beginning to ask: Deep blends science and adventure to uncover its amazing secrets.Trade ReviewA fascinating, informative, exhilarating book. * Wall Street Journal *Idiosyncratic and Illuminating... Deep demonstrates that a rich, life-filled, mysterious realm of vast possibility is contained in that blackness. It will certainly enrich the thinking of anyone planning to spend time at the beach. -- Horatio Clare * The Independent *Deep is a heartfelt, eccentric and pleasantly eccentric guide to the planet's most mysterious region. It should encourage plenty of readers to take the plunge. * Sunday Business Post *Engaging and eye-popping. * Esquire *

Read more less

Book Synopsis Advance your mountain biking experience even further with Mastering Mountain Bike Skills, Third Edition. Learn from the firsthand advice and personal experiences of world champion Brian Lopes. The third edition features more high-quality photos, improved instruction, and new techniques and tips for every riding style. Trade Review“I’ve known Brian for years, and he is one of the best mountain bike riders I ever rode with. Reading his book is sure to take your skills to the next level.” —Nino Schurter, MTB Olympic Gold Medalist (2016), Five-Time Cross Country World Champion “Brian helped me achieve my dream to become a great bike racer. He showed me the dedication and discipline that one needs to make this happen. The experience Brian shares in his book will allow everyone to achieve their goals of becoming a better and safer rider.” —Cédric Gracia,4X World Cup and World Champion “Working with Lee changed my world of mountain biking. He simply is THE best skills coach in the world. He took me from a pathetic off-road triathlete to an elite World Cup mountain bike racer.” —Lesley Paterson,XTERRA World Champion and Professional MTB Racer Table of Contents Introduction Chapter 1: Choose Your Weapon Chapter 2: Become One With Your Bike Chapter 3: Control Your Speed Chapter 4: Make Great Power Chapter 5: Carve Any Corner Chapter 6: Ride Down Almost Anything Chapter 7: Ride Up Almost Everything Chapter 8: Pump Bumps for Free Speed Chapter 9: Wheelie, Manual and Hop Like a Boss Chapter 10: Might as Well Jump Chapter 11: Avoid Injuries Chapter 12: Handle Every Condition Chapter 13: Flow on Any Trail Chapter 14: Race Like a Champ Glossary

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis new and improved edition of "The Ultimate Parkour & Freerunning book" contains precise illustrations for the teaching of all basic techniques, easy to follow movement breakdowns and methodical tips for indoor and outdoor training. All the most common terms from the scene are listed for reference in English and French. History, philosophy, rules of behavior, training advice based on the latest sports science knowledge, interviews from the scene about motivations and trends, advice for schools and explanations of competitions and competition criteria are a few examples of the book's contents.

Read more less

Book SynopsisVoytek Kurtyka is one of the greatest alpinists of all time. Born in 1947, he was one of the leading lights of the Polish golden age of mountaineering that redefined Himalayan climbing in the 1970s and 1980s.His visionary approach to climbing resulted in many renowned ascents, such as the complete Broad Peak traverse, the ‘night-naked’ speed climbs of Cho Oyu and Shishapangma and, above all, the alpine-style first ascent of the west face of Gasherbrum IV. Dubbed the ‘climb of the century’, his route on GIV with the Austrian Robert Schauer is – as of 2017 – unrepeated. His most frequent climbing partners were alpine legends of their time: Polish Himalayan giant Jerzy Kukuczka, Swiss mountain guide Erhard Loretan and British alpinist Alex MacIntyre.After repeated requests to accept the Piolets d’Or lifetime achievement award (the Oscars of the climbing world), Kurtyka finally accepted the honour in the spring of 2016. A fiercely private individual, he has declined countless invitations for interviews, lectures and festival appearances, but he has agreed to collaborate with internationally renowned and award-winning author Bernadette McDonald on this long-awaited biography.Art of Freedom is a profound and moving profile of one of the international climbing world’s most respected, complex and reclusive mountaineers.Trade ReviewThis biography of the enigmatic Voytek Kurtyka is intimate and poised, revealing much that we did not know about Kurtyka, but never dispelling the mystery that surrounds him. -- John PorterVoytek Kurtyka is an artist and his art is alpinism. -- Barry BlanchardTable of ContentsIntroduction; One Rock Animal; Two Alpinist in Training; Three Hindu Kush - Unleashed; Four Troll Wall; Five Bandaka - The Mordor Beauty; Six Hungry for Hunger; Seven Dancing in the Moment; Eight Enfant Terrible; Nine Line against the Sky; Ten The Shining Wall; Eleven Fork in the Road; Twelve Trango Tower; Thirteen Night Naked; Fourteen Dance of the Underclings; Fifteen Chinese Maharaja; Sixteen Metaphysical Think Tank; Epilogue The Crux; Appendix Chronology of Selected Climbs; Acknowledgements; Notes; Sources; Index.

Read more less

Book SynopsisLonglisted for the William Hill Sports Book of the Year 2012. On October 14, 1989, driven by one of the most intense and lasting two-man rivalries in any sport, a pair of generational talents at the height of their powers ran a race that redefined human limits. The battle between Dave Scott and Mark Allen at the 13th Hawaii Ironman stands as one of the most dramatic stories in the history of athletics. The two greatest athletes of triathlon's pioneering generation raced side by side, literally, for eight straight hours at breakneck speed before Allen finally tore away from his longtime nemesis with less than two miles left in the 140.6-mile event. His margin of victory was a scant 58 seconds. So intense was the drama, the race came to be known as 'Iron War' - the single most awe-inspiring sporting event ever witnessed. More than a compelling story, Iron War is a fascinating exploration of how Scott and Allen pushed themselves and each other - and what it takes for anyone to break through perceived limits. Much as Christopher McDougall added depth to Born to Run by tying in new research on the evolutionary origins of humans as runners, Iron War shows how new discoveries in neuroscience explain how some elite athletes are able to literally will their bodies to do things that should be beyond their capacities. The book weaves an examination of the anatomy of mental toughness into a gripping tale of athletic adventure. With its emotional and intellectual depth, Iron War is a captivating and thought-provoking portrait of the human will..Trade Review'The greatest race in the history of triathlon' 220 Triathlon. * 220 Triathlon *'A riveting read' Loaded. * Loaded magazine *'It is a great read about an amazing event' Triathlete Europe. * Triathlete Europe *Table of ContentsThe Moment. A Drop Too Much. Get a Grip. Pain Community. You Again. Dig Me Beach. Iron Will. Shot Out of a Cannon. Burning Matches. Vision Quest. Breaking Point. The Man's Search for Meaning. Shaman Surfer. Epilogue. Notes. Photo Credits. Course Map. Iron War Timeline. Acknowledgments. About the Author.

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisIn 2007, Adam, then a toaster salesman, was inspired by a film about a man attempting to change his life by swimming the English Channel to try to emulate the feat. After a year of rigorous training without a coach, Adam achieved his goal in 11 hours 35 minutes, despite a ruptured bicep tendon leading to medical advice to give up long-distance swimming. In 2011, after two operations and a change to his swimming style to take pressure off his injured shoulder, he became the first Briton to achieve a two-way crossing from Spain to Morocco and back. In the process, he broke the British record one way. Shortly afterwards, the Ocean's Seven challenge was born, a gruelling equivalent to the Seven Summits mountaineering challenge. At first it seemed that injury would prevent Adam from participating but, ignoring medical advice, he developed an innovative technique - the Ocean Walker stroke - that would enable him to continue with the ultimate aim of completing this seemingly impossible feat. Whether man would triumph over ocean, or fail in the attempt, forms the core of this extraordinary autobiography. Always intriguing, sometimes terrifying, and occasionally very funny, Adam's story is about sport in its truest form: rather than competitions between teams and individuals, it is about man against nature - and against his own failings and demons. In that, it is truly inspirational.

Read more less

Book SynopsisLarry Linkogle was a child-prodigy motocross racer who turned pro at age 15. A daredevil and rebel from the start, he quit the sport in spectacular fashion during a major national event and went home to create a new extreme sport -- Freestyle Motocross (FMX) -- marked by high-flying stunts and death-defying action. From there, the ride just got wilder. On a lark, he and a friend created The Metal Mulisha -- now a top brand in FMX -- and he was on a fast track to the good life. But after a near-fatal accident, Link made a series of decisions that almost finished him off for good -- getting involved in prescription drugs, drug and gun running, underground fistfighting, and other behavior that compromised his health, his relationships, and his career. After hitting rock bottom and experiencing a moment of clarity, Link began to turn things around, salvaging and strengthening the things that mattered most. Now an icon to millions of extreme sports fans, Link is well on the road to a happy ending.Trade ReviewThrottlermagazine.com Linkogle's book is like a roller coaster that just keeps going faster and you just know the end is coming... couldn't put it down. ... Although we all knew the sport had its seedy side, I don't think many of us realized the crazy journey Larry Linkogle was on. But now we know for sure. Highly recommended.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe Impossible aims to get skateboarding right. Journalist Cole Louison gets inside the history, culture, and major personalities of skating.Trade Review“David Foster Wallace on a skateboard.” — GQ “With its infectious enthusiasm, precise lyricism, and rigorous deeply-felt reporting, the book brings to life the sport’s historical roots, its cultural significance, and most of all, its artistic possibilities. I was hooked from the start. —Ian Crouch, The New Yorker “The last time I thought seriously about professional skateboarders, I was hoping to become one. This book blew it wide open for me. Until now, only obsessive freaks had any idea how interesting this sport is. And even obsessive freaks should stick around for the tale Louison has so lucidly spun. —John Jeremiah Sullivan, author of Blood Horses and Pulphead “I’d never so much as stood on a board, let alone heard the names Sheckler and Mullen, but I found myself entranced by the fascinating cultural movement they created. The Impossible is a universal story, told in imminently readable fashion by a tremendously talented writer." --Michael Koryta, New York Times best-selling author of The Ridge and Those Who Wish Me Dead “The book provides a deep and nuanced insight into how contemporary skateboarding has evolved and where it will go. It honors the beauty, danger, and complexity of the sport, and lays bare its physical and psychological demands, and greatness. The Impossible is some of the finest writing on skating I’ve seen. I read it in one sitting." —Bret Anthony Johnston, best-selling author of Corpus Christi and Remember Me Like This

Read more less

Book SynopsisRide lays bare the harrowing beginnings and the tough life lessons learned by superstar John Buultjens on his rise to BMX Glory, Against All the Odds. Raised by his poor family on Glasgow's Drumchapel estate, he slept rough to escape his violent father's beatings. Placed in a children's home by his mother, he was then adopted by a bi-racial couple. After conquering his own racism, his life turned around, and the blockbuster movie E.T. inspired a love of BMX. Although spurred by bitterness, John's emigration to Australia saw him take his sporting enthusiasm to new levels, becoming one of BMX's biggest names. Then came the call from California to lead the most famous BMX brand of them all, Haro. As their global brand manager, he now backs and sponsors riders across the globe. Hollywood has since turned his unbelievable journey into a movie, set for release in November 2017. Here, John reveals inner secrets including family murders, hatred, sexual abuse - and how his white-knuckle ride has taken him to the top against all the odds.

Read more less

Book SynopsisTable of ContentsIntroduction 1 Part 1: Getting On the Right Boating Track 7 Chapter 1: Powering Up to Be a Boater 9 Chapter 2: Choosing the Right Boat Type and Engine for Your Boating Needs 21 Chapter 3: Finding and Buying the Right Boat for You 41 Chapter 4: Accessorizing Your Boat for Safety and Fun 67 Part 2: Safely Operating Your Boat 83 Chapter 5: Towing Your Boat and Maintaining Your Trailer 85 Chapter 6: Launching and Loading Your Trailered Boat 101 Chapter 7: Hitting the Open Water: Driving Your Boat 129 Chapter 8: Docking, Rafting Up, and Anchoring 147 Chapter 9: Finding a Safe Harbor for Your Boat 167 Part 3: With Much Boating Fun Comes Much Responsibility 189 Chapter 10: Rules Do Apply: Navigating to Avoid Collisions and Confusion 191 Chapter 11: Finding Your Way on the Water 207 Chapter 12: Navigating Bad Weather 229 Chapter 13: Preparing for and Handling Boating Emergencies 247 Part 4: Keeping Your Boat Shipshape 267 Chapter 14: Keeping Up with Routine Boat Maintenance 269 Chapter 15: Getting Your Boat Ready for Winter and Spring 295 Chapter 16: Repairing Leaks and Other Damage to Your Boat 303 Part 5: The Part of Tens 325 Chapter 17: Ten Tactics That Separate Pros from Amateurs 327 Chapter 18: Ten Important Items to Keep Onboard 335 Chapter 19: Ten (Plus Two) Mechanical Checks for Buying a Pre-Owned Boat 341 Index 349

Read more less

Book SynopsisLONGLISTED FOR THE 2023 WILLIAM HILL SPORTS BOOK OF THE YEARJOIN THE QUEST TO SURF THE BIGGEST WAVE IN HISTORY.In a small fishing village on the coast of Portugal, a select band of surfers take unimaginable risks, pushing the boundaries of their death-defying sport as they seek to go bigger than ever before.Their goal? To ride the Everest of the ocean - the 100-foot wave.Sports journalist Matt Majendie is welcomed into the inner circle of Nazaré's tight community of big-wave surfers and extreme thrill-seekers, living among them for a season as he chronicles their incredible highs and terrifying lows.Follow the endeavours of Britain's leading big-wave surfer, a former plumber from Devon, Andrew Cotton; trailblazing Brazilian female surfer Maya Gabeira; current World Record holder German Sebastian Steudtner; Portuguese Nic von Rupp and jet-ski driver Sérgio Cosme, nicknamed 'the Guardian Angel of Nazaré' for his daring rescues, in this gripping read.

Read more less

Book Synopsis'Anyone who has ever tried to do something well, anyone who has ever made personal sacrifices for an art or an idea, will have no trouble understanding what it is about' Paul Auster - The star of MAN ON WIRE offers a meditation on the ecstasy of conquering our fears and reaching for the starsTrade ReviewThis is a book of instructions to those who will dare one day the impossible. It shows the art to fill and illuminate the Void, a void between two towers, two edges of a ravine, or two planets, or the space between heart and mind. A wire connects what would have been separated in loneliness forever. I salute you, Philippe, the Fragile Man of the Wire, the Emperor of the air. I bow my head in reverence -- WERNER HERZOGPetit meditates on his calling, his prose aphoristic, gem-like. The book is about what he does, but it's also about what we all do, if there's anything we're obsessed with, or passionate about. He outlines a whole approach to life, and his vision is pure, primitive and poetic . . . The lessons are simple, universal. Be committed. Feel alive. Give everything * INDEPENDENT *Fascinating. You will learn about the man, his work, his passion, his tenacity and lucidity -- MARCEL MARCEAUPhilippe Petit is an artist whose theatre is the sky -- ROBIN WILLIAMSA remarkable book . . . the high wire is an art of solitude, a way of coming to grips with one's life in the darkest, most secret corner of the self. When read carefully, the book is transformed into the story of a quest, an exemplary tale of one man's search for perfection. As such, it has more to do with the inner life than the high wire . . . anyone who has ever tried to do something well, anyone who has ever made personal sacrifices for an art or an idea, will have no trouble understanding what it is about -- PAUL AUSTER, from the IntroductionWhat sets Philippe in a class all his own is his restless quest to conquer the greatest physical heights, achieving a precise balance of chaos and creativity. He is an inspiration -- MIKHAIL BARYSHNIKOV

Read more less

Book SynopsisShortlisted for Biography of the Year at the Telegraph Sports Book Awards 2020Shortlisted for Adventure Travel Book of the Year at the Edward Stanford Travel Writing Awards 2020On June 3rd 2017, professional climber Mark Synnott was in Yosemite to witness something that only a handful of people knew was about to occur: his friend, Alex Honnold, was going to attempt to summit one of the world's most challenging ascents, a route called Freerider on the notorious rock formation El Capitan. It is an extraordinarily dangerous and difficult climb, and yet Alex was going to do it 'free solo'. Meaning no help. No partner. No equipment. No rope. Where a single small mistake would mean certain death. Indeed, to summit El Cap free solo was a feat likened to Neil Armstrong first walking on the moon.As Alex plots, rehearses and ultimately attempts his heart-stopping ascent, Mark also shares his own personal history of climbing, filled with triumphs, defeats and dilemmas, in this deeply reported, inspiring exhortation to live life to the fullest.Trade ReviewAn enthralling new book. Few sports have as rich and varied a literature as climbing...and this gripping work from the vastly experienced mountaineer and adventurer Mark Synnott is a magnificent addition to the canon...This compelling book reads like a thriller as it ranges over the rarefied world of extreme climbing. * Daily Mail *With the possible exception of the lunar landings, free-soloing El Capitan may rank as one of the most audacious--and terrifying--things a human being has ever done. Synnott's narrative plasters you to a 3,000-foot granite cliff and doesn't let you go until the climb is done. It is one of the most compelling accounts of a climb and the climbing ethos that I've ever read. -- Sebastian Junger, author of THE PERFECT STORMImmensely enjoyable. Tapping his own impressive mountaineering resume, Mark Synnott dives deep into the rebellious counterculture of extreme climbing to get inside the head of Alex Honnold, the planet's foremost rock climber. What motivated Honnold to free climb El Capitan without a rope? "Because it's there" doesn't come close to explaining it. Synnott's The Impossible Climb does. -- Andy Hall, author of DENALI'S HOWLMark Synnott's The Impossible Climb is to climbing what William Finnegan's Barbarian Days is to surfing. -- John Long, writer, producer, and pioneer of 'free solo' rock climbingYes, The Impossible Climb is the gripping story of the most perilous rock ascent of all time - but it's much more than that. In seamlessly fusing memoir, reporting, social history, climbing lore, technical expertise and intimate glimpses of his tribe, Mark Synnott has given us a kind of epic of life on the edge. Even readers who have never set toe to rock are going to find themselves glued to this insanely brilliant account of extreme athletic ambition and endurance. -- David Laskin, author of THE CHILDREN'S BLIZZARDAn accomplished portrait of two remarkable lives * New York Times Book Review *Fast paced and enjoyable. * Wall Street Journal *Synnott, with the skill of a master craftsman, weaves into this text stories about Alex's climbing. . . . fascinating reading. . . . Synnott uses his experience both as a climber and as a writer to paint an incredible canvas. The Impossible Climb is not to be missed. -- Keith Sharples * Climber *Table of ContentsPart One: Youth 1: "The Hon Is Going to Solo El Cap" 2: Crazy Kids of America 3: A Vision of the Stonemasters' Lightning 4: The Stone Monkey Part Two: The Professional World 5: Crashing the Gravy Train on the Vertical Mile 6: The Secret Weapon, Mr. Safety, and Xiao Pung 7: Nonprofit 8: Secret Dawn Walls Part Two: Topping Out 9: Amygdala 10: The Source 11: "Her Attitude Is Awesome" 12: Fun

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisIncluding two new chapters on Alex Honnold’s free solo ascent of the iconic 3,000-foot El Capitan in Yosemite National Park.Trade Review"Alex Honnold spends his life cheating death." -- New York Times Magazine"Honnold here recounts his ascents on some of the world's most dangerous rock walls. You'll come away questioning his sanity for choosing this controversial sport…but it's also impossible not to feel awe." -- People"Honnold blows wide open any conventional understanding of the term 'comfort zone.'…He engagingly conveys his love of climbing." -- Barbara J. King - NPR"[Honnold] is the foremost practitioner of the dark art of free solo rock climbing—ascending extremely difficult cliffs hundreds, sometimes thousands, of feet tall without ropes or protection hardware of any kind. That is every bit as stupefying as it sounds." -- Wall Street Journal"Alone on the Wall is set to inspire multitudes [of climbers]. With his off-the-charts abilities and laconic, whip-smart, no-B.S. persona, Honnold has made climbing cool." -- Men's Health"[Honnold's] ability to connect with a larger audience and bring a humble perspective to his many accomplishments makes him a great ambassador to the sport…[R]eading the vivid descriptions captured by Honnold and Roberts will surely cover the book's pages in a fine layer of palm sweat." -- Gripped Magazine

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisEmbark on a remarkable journey with The Ultimate Adventure Guide, the go-to companion for exploring the exhilarating world of adventure sports and activities. Packed with breathtaking photography, this guide delves into the origins of each sport and traces its evolution into unique disciplines.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe first book by professional BMX athlete, entrepreneur, content creator, and cultural icon Nigel Sylvester; photographed by director, cinematographer, and graphic designer Harrison Boyce.Inspired by his globally acclaimed digital series GO, which documents the Queens, NY native?s ambitious desire to ride his bicycle around the world, the two hundred-plus page coffee table book (out this October with Rizzoli) transports audiences to marquee cities worldwide, placing them in the front seat to various thrill-seeking moments documented through dynamic photos and short stories including sumo wrestling in Tokyo, fencing at Somerset House in London, racing Ferraris along the Malibu coast, and jumping out of a plane with his BMX bike in hand into the Dubai desert, just to name a few. Unprecedented moments like this make it easy to understand how the BMX icon''s ubiquitous influence has redefined the sport on his terms and become one of the most recognizable faces in the sports world.Sylvester''s cultural relevance is also embedded throughout the book, with cameos from Nigo, Super Bowl champion wide receiver Victor Cruz, rapper Rick Ross, DJ Khaled, celebrity jeweler Greg Yuna, Jamie Chung, ASAP Ferg, Steve Aoki, and NBA champion Nick Young.

Read more less

Book SynopsisTrade Review"Combining lucid prose and informed by critical scholarship, Kidder elucidates the meanings and cultures of a twenty-first century sport from the streets of the megacity to the hand-held social media device. Timely and sound, Parkour and the City has much to offer to the community." -- Paul Gilchrist * coeditor of The Politics of Sport *"In this fascinating book, Kidder reveals the complex ways in which parkour participants engage with risk and perform hegemonic forms of sporting masculinity. Parkour and the City reveals many of the paradoxes of informal lifestyle sporting activities and the ways they resonate with postmodern culture." -- Belinda Wheaton * School of Human Development and Movement Studies, University of Waikato *"Kidder’s descriptive and engaging text touches deftly on a number of timely and relevant areas of interest for scholars in many fields and many places." * International Review for the Sociology of Sport *"Kidder walks the reader through his conclusions and makes compelling arguments, and overall, the book is well written and clearly organized. The most interesting chapter discusses traceurs’ hedgework, rituals of risk, and symbolic practices of safety. It is easily accessible for readers who want to learn more about the sport of parkour. In reading Kidder’s book, one is instantly inserted into a parkour jam but with a sociological lens." * Gender & Society *"The book is well written, and I recommend it to all scholars and students who are interested in lifestyle sport, urban sociology or to those who are looking for a good example of how sport (as well as all human activity) is significant beyond itself." * idrottsforum.org *"This is a well-researched, well-written, and ultimately intriguing study that will position Kidder at the forefront of scholarship on this cultural form for some time to come." * American Journal of Sociology *Table of ContentsAcknowledgments Introduction: Thinking Sociologically about Parkour1 Developing the Discipline and Creating a Sport2 New Prisms of the Possible3 Young Men in the City4 Hedging Their BetsConclusions: Appropriating the City Appendix A: Brief Note on Data and MethodAppendix B: On the Parkour Terminology Used in This BookNotesBibliographyIndex

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe essential and fully updated reference for all aspiring and improving kiteboarders, explaining the theory, how to get started, all the way through to competing and instructing. Your complete practical guide to this fast-paced and addictive sport. Kiteboarding has gone from strength to strength over the last few years, and interest is only set to increase within its inclusion in the 2024 Paris Olympics. In this book, Andy Gratwick (Head of Training for British Kitesports) gets you started with the kite and takes you through to flying it on the water, jumping, tricks and racing, as well as covering weather, wind and tide theory, and helping you select the right kit. Sections cover: - The origins of kiteboarding and massive rise in popularity in recent years - How a kite flies and basic weather principles as well as background on tides and currents, waves, and wind vs tide - Getting started on land LEI rigging, assembly, launching and flying, body-draTable of ContentsINTRODUCTION PART 1 Need To Know 01 The sport: a brief history 02 Air 03 Water PART 2 The Journey: Becoming A Kiteboarder 04 Getting started 05 The kite 06 The board 07 Safety, breakages and self-rescues 08 Advanced techniques 09 Points of sailing 10 Going upwind 11 Airtime 12 Equipment PART 3 The Future 13 Kiteboarding disciplines 14 Competitions 15 Governance 16 Taking it to a new level INDEX ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND PICTURE CREDITS

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe World Marathon Challenge—seven marathons on seven continents in seven days—is the ultimate race for adventurous runners. It tests the athletes to their limits, going from biting cold Antarctic conditions one day to dry desert heat another. To survive the onslaught of sensations—fear, fatigue, depression, elation—takes a special sort of determination and strength of will. Few would take on such a challenge, and fewer still would finish it. Relentless: Seven Marathons, Seven Continents, Seven Days is David Gething’s amazing story of his journey from a middle-aged couch potato to a World Marathon champion. Gething gives a deeply personal and candid view of what it is like to compete in one of the most demanding amateur sporting events on the planet, including the sacrifices made just to get to the start of the race and what it takes to win. He describes in detail each individual contest—originating in Antarctica and ending in Australia—and the physical, emotional, and psychological sides of this grueling stage race. Far from just depicting the event itself, Gething also delves into the interpersonal relationships, rivalries, and bonds that form on this adventure that is like no other. Featuring photographs taken during the event from Gething’s personal collection, and including private emails to and from the author and his family and friends, Relentless gives a truly unique and intimate view into the inner workings of this punishing ultra-endurance battle. Marathon runners, sporting enthusiasts, and anyone with a dream and a determination to succeed despite the odds will find Gething’s journey a fascinating and inspiring story.Trade ReviewIn 2007, the author’s pregnant wife pointed out that he was getting a little soft: too much bad food, not enough exercise, perhaps not quite the right role model for their soon-to-be-born child. Gething took her observation to heart and vowed to get into shape. He started running, eventually graduating to marathons, and, in 2015, he entered and won the very first World Marathon Challenge, which is just as hard as it sounds: seven full marathons in the space of a week in Antarctica, South America, North America, Europe, Africa, Asia, and Australia. It sounds like an incredible ordeal, the kind of thing you wonder why anyone would subject himself to, and indeed that’s a big part of this memoir: the author explaining how and why he went, in the space of less than a decade, from an ordinary, out-of-shape guy to a world-class marathon runner. Full of interesting and surprising stories—it really was quite a journey, and it’s populated by an engaging cast of real-life characters—the book should appeal to runners of all kinds, from newbies to veterans. * Booklist *This is the autobiographical story of a man who transforms himself from a ‘middle-aged couch potato’ into an athlete who attempts to complete ‘seven marathons on seven continents in seven days.’ The book is organized into separate chapters for each marathon. . . .It is difficult to imagine undertaking such a grueling challenge, but the author's recollection of details and his thoughts throughout the seven events provide readers with an insight into the experience. There is no bravado one might expect from a recounting of an adventure of this scale. Instead, readers are provided with a narrative that is self-deprecating and honest. The author writes of when his wife confronts him about his drinking, smoking, and weight issues, which propel him to adopt a healthier lifestyle. Eventually this leads to his competing in increasingly grueling races that culminate in the events detailed in this book. Though it obviously recounts the story of the marathons, it is also an interesting story of how a man transformed himself from a sedentary and unhealthy person into a world-class marathoner. Summing Up: Recommended. All readers. * CHOICE *The ambition and dedication that David Gething demonstrates in his remarkable achievement shows that he has the true spirit of an IRONMAN: Anything is Possible with the right amount of dedication and commitment. -- Andrew Messick, CEO of IronmanA wonderfully told adventure about pushing your limits—for runners and non-runners alike. I couldn't put it down. -- John Ellis, Ultra RunnerDavid Gething has done an excellent job of capturing the essence of the event—the characters, courses, logistics, the internal dialogues and doubts, the issues and ethics and, in the end, the sheer magnitude of it all. Yet, like Ultraman, despite its length and relatively small number of competitors, Gething draws the reader into the art and heart of what it means to be a champion. Gething translates the nuances of such a multi-day challenge into an exciting finale both on and off the pages of the book. I was totally impressed and engrossed. An excellent read—I would totally recommend the book. -- Steve King, Ironman, Ultraman, and Ultramarathon legendWhen David first approached me about racing the 7 marathons in 7 days on 7 continents challenge, I first wondered how it was even possible. But then I also realized that David is one of those special athletes with the physical strength to handle the punishment that would need to be endured—and even more importantly, the mental strength to stay focused and keep pushing right to the end no matter how much suffering he would have to endure. -- Nigel Gray, elite professional triathlete and coach, NRG Performance TrainingTable of ContentsACKNOWLEDGMENTS INTRODUCTION: The Story of the Beginning Chapter 1: THE STARTING LINE Chapter 2: MARATHON 1: ANTARCTICA: Union Glacier: A Trial byFire in the Coldest Place on Earth Chapter 3: MARATHON 2: SOUTH AMERICA: Punta Arenas, Chile: The Shakedown Chapter 4: MARATHON 3: NORTH AMERICA: Miami, United States of America: The Forging of the Alliance Chapter 5: MARATHON 4: EUROPE: Madrid, Spain: The Painful Test Chapter 6: MARATHON 5: AFRICA: Marrakech, Morocco: The Unraveling Chapter 7: MARATHON 6: ASIA: Dubai, United Arab Emirates: When to Win Alone Would Have Been a Loss Chapter 8: MARATHON 7: OCEANIA: Sydney, Australia: The Final Showdown EPILOGUE APPENDIX: The Final Standings INDEX ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Read more less

Book SynopsisA Wall Street Journal bestseller. In this groundbreaking book, New York Times bestselling author Steven Kotler decodes the mystery of ultimate human performance. Drawing on over a decade of research and firsthand reporting with dozens of top action and adventure sports athletes like big wave legend Laird Hamilton, big mountain snowboarder Jeremy Jones, and skateboarding pioneer Danny Way, Kotler explores the frontier science of “flow,” an optimal state of consciousness in which we perform and feel our best. Building a bridge between the extreme and the mainstream, The Rise of Superman explains how these athletes are using flow to do the impossible and how we can use this information to radically accelerate performance in our own lives. At its core, this is a book about profound possibility; about what is actually possible for our species; about where—if anywhere—our limits lie.Trade ReviewWall Street Journal Bestseller New York Times Bestseller “A thrill ride of a book, empowering in its implications of what any individual can achieve.” —Kirkus Reviews “A fascinating primer on how athletes of extreme sports use flow to accomplish what seem like impossible goals, such as skiing down cliffs or surfing 100-foot waves. But a close reading of the book also provides great insights into how everyday athletes can use flow in their workouts and the rest of their lives.” —Financial Times “Kotler takes on the latest research on flow through the lens of action and adventure athletics…[Writing] primarily about flow in high-stakes sports like surfing—where focus and concentration can be the difference between a tubular ride and a watery death—but the concept could also have big implications for the business world.” —Fortune “In this high-octane study, Steven Kotler explores ‘flow’, a neurochemically rich state in which cognitive and physiological processes mesh. The stupendous physical feats of the late ski-base jumper Shane McConkey and others are riveting. Equally surprising is what we know of flow science, such as how the brain’s superior frontal gyrus deactivates to speed decision-making” —Nature “The Rise of Superman is full of scientific explanations about why flow helps athletes perform at their peak, why this is on the upswing in recent decades, and how almost anybody can better tap their ultimate potential.” —Surfer Magazine “Kotler focuses on extreme sports for good reason. These athletes face a constant choice, “flow or die,” and his book contains some compelling characters…Flow is rooted in the brain, and Kotler does a good job of explaining that science.” —The Washington Post “In Kotler’s riveting and beautifully written book, he explains the neuroscience behind the mystery of the flow state, and provides the key to unlock innovation, creativity and ultimate achievement for leaders, entrepreneurs and anyone interested in the big and bold.” —Peter Diamandis, New York Times bestselling author, founder of the X Prize, co-founder of Singularity University “The Rise of Superman is an electrifying book about a potent state of mind. If you aren’t inspired to brainhack your way up to the next level, start again at page one.” —David Eagleman, Neuroscientist, New York Times bestselling author of Incognito “The Rise of Superman is a page-turning, game-changing account of the secrets of ultimate human performance—a must read for anyone interested in seriously raising the level of their game.” —Ray Kurzweil, Director of Engineering at Google, author of How to Create a Mind and The Singularity is Near “In The Rise Of Superman, Steven Kotler breaks down the elusive and ecstatic ‘flow state’ that so many high performance athletes, musicians, and artists refer to as indispensable to their creativity and virtuosity—and in doing so, offers us a map to achieve massive upgrades in our capacities and potential.” —Jason Silva, futurist, host of National Geographic’s Brain Games “The Rise Of Superman is a tour de force. Rare the book that is learned, clever, fascinating, and useful. This book is all four. Inspiring, impeccably researched, and supremely practical, Kotler’s book is a must-read for everyone who wants in on the secrets on how to surpass their personal best.” —Ned Hallowell, New York Times bestselling author and Harvard Medical School psychiatrist

Read more less

Book SynopsisWorld famous competitive skydiver and coach Dan Brodsky-Chenfeld presents proven tools and techniques for success and explains how they can be used in everyday life. Dan survived a plane crash from which sixteen of the twenty-two people on board were killed. He was left critically injured and woke up from a six-week-long coma with a broken neck, broken skull, severe head trauma, a collapsed lung, and other serious internal injuries. Against all odds, Dan recovered and went on to become one of the greatest competitive skydiver in the world. With the love and support of friends and family, Dan was able not only to resurrect his life but return to skydiving to achieve greater heights than he could have ever imagined. His techniques and methods for excelling are applicable to all people, no matter their goals. Dan uses his experiences to teach the lessons he’s learned—as a competitor, coach, business owner, father, and husband—to help others achieve their dreams, overcome obstacles, and reach their peak performance.

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisPlaying card games is more fun than ever with this funny deck that features laugh-out-loud illustrations! William Nealy is an American treasure. The author and cartoonist gained cult-hero status in the outdoor-sports community by blending his passion for the outdoors with his unique style of caricatures. Now, you can bring his famous art to your game table with the William Nealy Extreme Sports Playing Cards. Just try to keep a poker face when you see William’s hilarious illustrations—a different one on every card, 54 in total! Better yet, each suit focuses on one of the four primary extreme sports that William wrote about: mountain biking, inline skating, kayaking, and downhill skiing/snowboarding. Card Features 54 illustrations by a world-famous cartoonist Extreme sports: cycling, inline skating, paddling, and skiing Ideal for card games with friends and family Play games like blackjack, poker, rummy, and solitaire while laughing about your favorite outdoor sports. Get the William Nealy Extreme Sports Playing Cards for yourself, and you can also give this deck of cards as a fun and thoughtful gift.Table of ContentsClubs: Cycling (mountain biking) Diamonds: Inline skating (rollerblading) Hearts: Skiing and snowboarding Spades: Kayaking and rafting

Read more less

Book SynopsisPlaying card games is more fun than ever with this funny deck that features laugh-out-loud illustrations! William Nealy is an American treasure. The author and cartoonist gained cult-hero status in the outdoor-sports community by blending his passion for the outdoors with his unique style of caricatures. He had a knack for learning—not by doing but by crashing and burning! Now, you can bring his famous art to your game table with the William Nealy Crash and Learn Playing Cards. Just try to keep a poker face when you see William’s hilarious illustrations—a different one on every card, 54 in total. Better yet, each suit focuses on one of William’s four favorite subjects for illustration: critters, life with his girlfriend, puns, and wipeouts. Card Features 54 illustrations by a world-famous cartoonist Cartoon topics: critters, puns, relationships, and wipeouts Ideal for card games with friends and family Play games like blackjack, poker, rummy, and solitaire while laughing about your favorite outdoor sports. Get the William Nealy Crash and Learn Playing Cards for yourself, and you can also give this deck of cards as a fun and thoughtful gift.Table of ContentsClubs: Critters Diamonds: Puns Hearts: William & Holly (relationships) Spades: Wipeouts

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book Synopsis'Running with Karnazes is like setting up one's easel next to Monet or Picasso.' The New York TimesIn his follow-up to the bestselling Ultramarathon Man, Dean Karnazes is back with more mind-blowing tales of how he pushes his mind and body to limits which are inconceivable to most of us. In Run! Dean shares the pleasure - and considerable pain - of some of his most memorable adventures, including:- a gentle 350-mile canter through the surprisingly hilly Australian Outback;- his annual attempts at the Badwater Ultramarathon in Death Valley, California (typical temperature: 45 degrees); and- the notorious 4 Deserts races, a masochist's delight encompassing four separate 155-mile runs across the Atacama Crossing, the Gobi, the Sahara and Antarctica...with rationed water.Dean's entertaining and endearing stories are sure to inspire both dedicated and vicarious runners alike.Trade ReviewRunning with Karnazes is like setting up one's easel next to Monet or Picasso. * New York Times *[C]harts the weird, wacky and downright mind-boggling adventures of ultramarathon man Dean Karnazes * Glasgow Herald *Real-life adventure stories from a superathlete. * Independent *

Read more less

Book SynopsisA razor-sharp analysis of how record-breaking exploits in extreme sport are redefining the limits of being human.Right now, more people are risking their lives for their sports then ever before in history. As Thomas Pynchon once put it in Gravity's Rainbow, 'it is not often that Death is told so clearly to f@%* off'. Over the past three decades, the bounds of the possible in action and adventure sports - from sky-diving to motocross to surfing and beyond - have been pushed farther and faster. A generation's worth of iconoclastic misfits have rewritten the rules of the feasible; not just raising the bar, but obliterating it altogether. Along the way, they have become a force pushing evolution relentlessly onward. In a thrilling narrative that draws on biology, psychology, and philosophy, Steven Kotler asks why, at the tail end of the 20th century and the early portion of the 21st, are we seeing such a multi-sport assault on reality? Did we somehow slip through a wormhole to another universe where gravity is optional and common sense obsolete? And where - if anywhere - do our actual limits lie?

Read more less

Book SynopsisPublic awareness of and sensitivity to questions of pain, risk and injury in sport is more acute than ever before. Whether it is questions of what sport (and fans) can realistically and responsibly expect of athletes, how revered practices almost inevitably culminate in suffering bodies, or the widespread attention being paid to injury outcomes (especially concussion), it is clear that sport in many settings currently operates in a climate that is both more scientifically and medically aware and more sensitive to risk 'outcomes'. This volume closely explores the full panorama of pain, risk and injury in the cultural, organizational and legal orbits of sport spaces. Aimed at students, researchers as well as applied professionals, the volume sets the cultural, structural and organizational context that gives rise to pain, risk and injury in the first place, provides substantive empirical examples from diverse sports arenas, looks at the key issues and dimensions of pain, risk and injury in the social consciousness today, and explores three different 'spins' on making sense of the subject matter -- from the position of the issue of consent and the courts, from the position of exploitation and corporate victimization, and from the understudied position of why athletes exit sport as an outcome of pain and injury and with what consequences. This timely and needed addition to the sport literature is an exciting 'on-the-bubble' treatment of a topic that is increasingly troubling authorities and affecting how and whether sport is undertaken.Table of ContentsIntroduction; Kevin Young Chapter 1. Sport and Risk Culture; Michael Atkinson Chapter 2. The Rationalisation of Healthcare in Modern Sport: from Policy to Practice; Andrea Scott-Bell Chapter 3. Risk in Lifestyle Sports: The Case of Parkour; Jeffrey Kidder Chapter 4. An Enduring Event: 20 Years of one Athlete's Negotiation with Pain at the Ironman Triathlon World Championships; Scott Tinley Chapter 5. Injury, Pain and Risk in the Paralympic Movement; Andrea Bundon Chapter 6. Sports-Related Brain Injury: Concussion and Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy; Katie Liston And Dominic Malcolm Chapter 7. Going Public with Pain: Athlete Stories of Disordered Eating in Discourse; Kerry Mcgannon Chapter 8. Suffering in Sport; Kristina Smith Chapter 9. Complexities in Canadian Legal Approaches to Sports Injury; Martine Dennie and Kevin Young Chapter 10. Regulating the Harmful, Injurious and Risky Business of Professional Wrestling; Karen Corteen Chapter 11. When the Athletic Body Fades: Sporting Exit and Identity Transitions; Sarah Gairdner

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe figure of the gladiator is as compelling to us as it was to the Romans. Why are we drawn to this ancient blood sport?The usual explanation of the savagery lurking beneath our veneer of civilisation is too simplistic. Gladiatorial combat has always been far more than just an excuse for the enjoyment of violence. From its origins in the funerary religious practices of Republican Rome to the extreme form of entertainment we recognise today, the bloody business of the arena evolved into a microcosm of the Roman Empire: a self-contained world reflecting the culture, attitudes and history of Rome itself.The World of the Gladiator brings the games and the gladiators into focus, placing them in their historical and cultural context. Using evidence from all over the Roman world, including fresh archaeological discoveries, the minutiae of the arena are set out and discussed. A picture of the gladiator's life is built up, from traini

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisExtreme Lakeland by Nadir Khan and Tom McNally is a stunning photographic celebration of all that makes the Lake District a magnet for those with a heart for adventure and who want to immerse themselves in the beauty of the hills and mountains of this jewel in the English landscape. From the crags of the high fells to the lakes and tarns for which the Lakes is famous, Nadir and Tom showcase incredible adventure sports through the seasons, including rock climbing, mountain biking, fell running, wild swimming, stand-up paddleboarding, base jumping and ski touring. Alongside a foreword by renowned rock climber Leo Houlding, and original illustrations by Anna Sharpe, there are inspirational literary contributions from wild swimmer Gilly McArthur, fell runner Ellis Bland, climbers Anna Taylor and Peter Goulding, and adventurer Jon Sparks. Extreme Lakeland is a visual feast for those that treasure the Lake District.

Read more less

Book SynopsisA 2.4-mile swim, a 112-mile bike ride and a 26.2-mile run make up the Ironman triathlon. It's not for the faint-hearted. What possesses an overweight, thirty-something librarian who can't swim, doesn't own a bike and has two dodgy knees to take on the hardest one-day endurance race in the world? Can't Swim, Can't Ride, Can't Run is the story of Andy Holgate's inspirational, epic and life-changing journey to become an Ironman. Lubricant, alligators, rubber suits, blisters, pirates, extreme weather, Elvis, tragedy, romance, flesh-eating amoebas, crashes, hospital visits and perhaps the most unusual stag weekend in history all play a part in this amusing and moving tale of one normal bloke's quest to arrive at his wedding intact. Oh yeah, that's right, Andy is due to get married seven days after the biggest physical challenge of his life. Will he make it down the aisle in one piece?Trade Review"A great book! Andrew Holgate claims he 'Can't Swim, Can't Ride, Can't Run', but he can certainly write. His book is filled with terrific lessons on living life to its fullest. I would argue that he can swim, can ride and can run very well indeed!" --Dean Karnazes, New York Times best-selling author and ultra-marathon legend; "What really comes to the fore in Andy's book is that no matter what level of triathlon you are involved in, the motivations, discipline, rewards and love of the sport are universal. Andy's book dispels many of the reservations that can initially prevent people from taking up any form of physical activity and shows us how sport can not only be a positive step towards physical well-being but also can be rewarding for the mind and soul." --Catriona Morrison, Multiple Ironman Champion; "I thoroughly enjoyed it. The ability of sport to change people's lives, like Andy's story, is not something I've considered. It was a real eye-opener. Trying to be as fit and as fast as you can all the time it is very easy to get wrapped up in your own little world so it was nice to be given a wider sense of the sport and be reminded of the real reason and power of sport; to inspire enjoyment in activity. Thanks for a great read." --Alistair Brownlee, ITU World Triathlon Champion; "Anyone new to tri, considering the leap to ironman or just after a mental boost should check out this autobiographical account of one overweight librarian's first forays into multisport. In an inspirational story Andy recounts how he was enticed to take part in Cockerham's annual triathlon, and bitten by the endurance bug. If you want to roll your eyes and chuckle conspiratorially at another newbie's mistakes and triumphs, tuck in." --220 Triathlon Magazine; "Best for Inspiration! If he can do it... Holgate's ironman journey is an uplifting insight into the power of taking on a challenge. He tells his story with an irreverent sense of humour and packs the book with useful information. If you're thinking of doing an ironman this book is just the thing to convince you that you are up for the challenge." --Triathletes World Magazine; "Loved reading Can't Swim, Can't Ride, Can't Run. He is able to make you laugh as he turns his depressing situation around to a wonderful, fulfilling life. This is not just a story for triathletes, it's a great book for anyone struggling with life and looking for some sunlight." --MissTriathlon.com; "A great read which shows that it's more about the taking part and enjoyment of any sport. Having little knowledge of ironman I became interested immediately when reading Can't Swim, Can't Ride, Can't Run! It shows the efforts from a 'grass roots level'. I enjoyed the journey of how Andy accomplished his goal and how he enjoyed himself in doing so, finding time for laughs; and as you will read, he never takes himself too seriously." --Huw Bennett, Ospreys & Wales; "This book shows the reality that triathlon is accessible to anyone. This story would make a great television show as well as being a great book." --The Simon Gowen Triathlon Show; "Andy Holgate's honest and real-life writings set this book above the rest. A heart-warming and inspiring story of one man's personal challenge - try reading this book without wanting to put on a wetsuit. I have Andy to blame for having to get up early and go out training on these cold winter mornings." --The Fitness Blogger; "Andy Holgate is the Bill Bryson of the Triathlon World. Quite simply, I LOVED this book." --TriCrowd.com; "A really fascinating story." --Talk Radio Europe; "An inspiration to us all." --Lancaster Guardian; "An inspirational story." --North West Evening Mail

Read more less

Book SynopsisRunning marathons back-to-back, sleeping by the side of the road, giving presentations to remote schools that had never been visited by their own kinsfolk, this is the remarkable story of personal endurance that gives an engrossing insight into the people and wildlife of South America. It is the story of two everyday runners, Katharine and David, who decided to take on a continent and learn how to run again - barefoot, pushing their bodies and minds to levels they had never considered possible in a bid to become the first in the world to run the length of South America, to give a voice to the wildlife and wildernesses they adore.Running laid them bare, stripped them of the shell people journey within, so all they had to rely on was their own bare feet. Yet this very vulnerability provided the key to unlocking communities who would fling open their doors, tuck them under their wings and whisper their secrets. Amazing animals accompanied them: gigantic vaulting stick-insects; cackling macaws who wheeled and pirouetted in the sky, desperately trying to gain a better view of them; and a giant anteater whom they stalked through a snake-infested swamp, so they could stand within an arm's length as he devoured termites upon the end of his long sticky tongue. It was also an animal, if one of the most diminutive, that nearly succeeded in ending their dreams of conquering the continent - an ant! But when their joints and muscles were screaming, when they couldn't stand the sight of one another and when prickly heat, blisters and tropical ulcers infested their skin, it was the wildlife and wildernesses that pulled them through. Day after day, for months on end, running from freezer through desert and into the biggest rainforest on earth, they survived hurricane-force winds, near 100% humidity, swarms of biting insects and some of the most crime-ridden places on the planet. The expedition nearly cost them their marriage, health, sanity and lives. But somehow, they made it to the other end of the continent, 6,504 miles and 15 months later, when they splashed into the warm and much-dreamed of Caribbean Sea.Trade Review`...Katharine relates the story of the run in fascinating details and with frankness and humour. She is also...a quality artist, which is demonstrated in the beautiful sketches of wildlife throughout the book. Running South America is an enthralling book and without doubt one of the best I have read’. Wildlife Detective, The blog of Alan Stewart -------------------- `...Katharine and David Lowrie (both 39) have made a journey that makes many a marathon runner be envious of envy or awe. ... If you are travelling in nature for so long as Katharine and David experienced numerous funny and absurd, but also dangerous moments. In her book...Katharine describes the various adventurous moments’. TravelBook -------------------- `...reading Katharine’s powerful and exciting book about her remarkable adventure is certainly a white-knuckle experience. It takes you deep into the heart of a mysterious continent where you are invited to watch the landscape unfold on a human scale one step at a time. It is a thrilling account punctuated by bizarre encounters with incredible native wildlife...’ Daily Express -------------------- `This really is an inspiring book ...a lovely book which will have you flinging off your shoes and embracing life’. Burnley Express, Rebecca Hay -------------------- `If ever a feat of daring and endurance deserved a book it was the adventure on which Katharine and David Lowrie embarked’. Chronicle Live -------------------- 'I am awe-inspired and deeply impressed'.--Dean Karnazes, World Ultra Marathon Runner 'A gruelling and challenging run for a vitally important cause... an extraordinary marathon'.--HRH Prince of Wales

Read more less

Book SynopsisFrom skilled weekend warriors to internationally recognized stars of the professional adventure game, Lynn Martel has interviewed dozens of the most dynamic, creative and accomplished self-propelled adventurers of our time. In Expedition to the Edge: Stories of Worldwide Adventure, Martel has assembled 59 compelling and entertaining stories that uniquely capture the exploits, the hardships, the fears and the personal insights of a virtual who''s who of contemporary adventurers as they explore remote mountain landscapes from the Rockies to Pakistan to Antarctica. Through candid and revealing conversations, Martel captures the joys, the motivations and the revelations of top climbers Sonnie Trotter, Sean Isaac, Raphael Slawinski and Steph Davis; Himalayan alpinists Carlos Buhler, Marko Prezelj and Barry Blanchard; record-setting paraglider Will Gadd; Everest skier Kit Deslauriers; the conservationist duo Karsten Heuer and Leanne Allison as they follow a caribou herd for five months on foot across the Yukon; and Colin Angus on his two-year quest to become the first person to circumnavigate the world by human power.

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisNo bicycle repair was ever made easier by turning your bike upside down. White shorts are for other people. A helmet perched on the back of your head is perfect if you ride your bike backwards - These and a host of other handy pointers jostle for attention within this A - Z guide to being a cyclist. It's an essential manual and source of wisdom for those who would be kings of the road. Many pitfalls await the unwary middle-aged-man-in-Lycra, but fear not, for the Guide is here to steer you through choppy waters. No more passing out halfway up a hill. No more ridicule in the work place. No more hurty knee. And no more sock crimes. Pearls of wisdom are scattered throughout this book like rose petals before a princess on her wedding day. For instance, who could deny that life is too short to drink bad coffee? That a noisy bike is marginally more annoying than a whiney toddler? Or that style should ever be sacrificed for speed? Written by experts who know everything there is to know about cycling, yet never forget that there is nothing funnier than a rabbit playing a trumpet, How to be a Cyclist is mandatory reading for all bike riders.Trade Review'A pleasant balance of wit and wisdom, served up with some high production values and gorgeous photography' * Podium Cafe *'a great present' * Scotland Outdoors *

Read more less

Book SynopsisAndy Pollitt is as close to a Hollywood A-lister as the climbing world will ever get. He had the looks, and he starred in all the big roles in the 1980s and 1990s - Tremadog, Pen Trwyn, the big Gogarth climbs, Raven Tor and the cult Australian adventures. Alongside co-stars like Jerry Moffatt, John Redhead and Malcolm 'HB' Matheson, he brought us sexy climbing - gone were the beards, the woolly socks and the fibre pile. Andy was all skin-tight pink Lycra, vests and brooding looks. For those watching, Andy Pollitt had it all. But Punk in the Gym gives us the whole truth. The self-doubt, the depression, the drinking, the fags, the womanising, the injuries, the loss of a father and the trouble that brings, and a need for something - for recognition, a release for the pain, and, for Andy, more drinking, more tears, bigger run-outs.With nothing held back, Andy tells his roller-coaster story from the UK to Australia, exactly as it happened. Exposing his fragile ego and leaving us to laugh, cry, marvel and judge, this is a sports autobiography like no other. The legendary routes are all here - The Bells, The Bells!, Skinhead Moonstomp, The Hollow Man, Boot Boys, The Whore of Babylon and Knockin' on Heaven's Door. And the route that broke him and robbed the climbing world of its Hollywood star - Punks in the Gym.

Read more less

Book SynopsisIn Extreme Scotland, award-winning adventure-sports photographer Nadir Khan takes us on a jaw-dropping tour through Scotland's epic mountain landscape. Nadir showcases his work with some of the best adventure athletes in the world - including Ines Papert and James Pearson - in a portfolio that has placed him at the forefront of adventure-sports photography in the UK. From the icy walls of Ben Nevis's frozen north face to the raging seas of the north coast, Scotland plays host to world-class adventure sports of every discipline. Ice climbing, kayaking, ski-touring, trail running, surfing, mountain biking and rock climbing are all captured beautifully in this fitting testament to Scotland's outstanding landscapes and adrenaline sports. Alongside contributions from climber and author Nick Bullock, Tom Livingstone, Elana Bader, Mike Pescod, David Canning and Stuart B. Campbell, Nadir gives us an insight into his photographic inspirations, and shares insights and approaches to composition and other elements of his photography.Table of ContentsForeword by Hamish MacInnes; Introduction; Winter; The Hurting; The Rain by Nick Bullock; Ice Climbing by David Canning; Crème de Violette by Tom Livingstone; The Choice by Elana Bader; Making Decisions by Mike Pescod; One Day by Elana Bader; Spring; Composition; Summer; Feeling Connected; Are You? by Elana Bader; Gear; Autumn; Touching Rock by Elana Bader; Coire ’n Uaigneis by Stuart B. Campbell; Acknowledgements.

Read more less

Book SynopsisPackrafts are rugged, portable rafts, small enough to attach under a rucksack, but stable on the water to reassure first time paddlers. Weighing from 1-3 kilos, they open up a whole new world of amphibious adventuring, from navigating easily accessible waterways to discovering more challenging rivers and lochs only reachable on foot or bicycle. Packrafting: A Beginners’ Guide is a perfect introduction to the game-changing recreational opportunities opened up by packrafting. It takes you through the different types and features of packrafts to ensure that you buy a boat that is right for you and have the right gear to use with it. It clearly explains the basic paddling skills and how to safely evaluate risks on the water. It also introduces the different types of adventures you can undertake with your packraft, from paddling a local canal or river to lashing a bicycle over the bow or using a packable sail to traverse open water. The book is comprehensively illustrated with over 120 colour photographs making it easy to understand and clear to follow.Trade Review“Interesting and informative. Chris Scott’s very careful descriptions and explanations of the gadgetry did convince me that this system would work if one wanted to tramp the moorland as well as explore freshwater lakes and rivers.” (Yachting Monthly)Table of ContentsIntroduction; About Packrafts; On the Water: The Basics; Inflation Valves & Pumps; Packrafting Gear; Outfitting & Load Carrying; Packraft Care & Repair; On the Trail: Basic Gear; Safety & Weather; Bikerafting; Packraft Sailing; Packrafting at Sea; Packrafting Adventures.

Read more less