Description
Book SynopsisThis book is an in-depth guide for training young runners of all abilities. It shares with the athletes and their coaches not only what it takes to become a top runner but also how to maintain a positive attitude, how to non-intrusively integrate training into their daily lives, and how to truly enjoy the act of running.
Trade ReviewChildren are not miniature adults—but they will grow to become adults. Brad Hudson, Lize Brittin, and Kevin Beck understand this, and in Young Runners at the Top they have created the first and only training guide that is specific to the needs of youth runners yet also takes the long view, offering guidance to ensure its readers run well and happily not just today but for a lifetime. -- Matt Fitzgerald, running coach, nutritionist, and author of How Bad Do You Want It?
Young Runners at the Top is a must-read for high-school coaches or parents looking to maximize their runners' potential with smart training and avoid some common mistakes that lead to injury and burn-out. This book helps coaches and parents understand the delicate balance between fitness and competition, all while keeping in mind the goal of the sport is to develop the whole person and promote a life-time love of running. -- Blake Russell, 2008 marathon Olympian, 5-time national champion, physical therapist, staff writer for the Monterey Herald and Santa Cruz Sentinel
There are plenty of books about childhood, parenting and running but, until Young Runners at the Top, none have attempted to confront both. Through their book, the three well-appointed authors offer a road map to guide those confronting what may be and often is a gauntlet of a journey that young runners face. Young Runners at the Top will help them confront injury, burnout, stress, and eating issues, as well as tough decisions and coaches. -- Adam W. Chase, President, American Trail Running Association, and co-author of The Ultimate Guide to Trail Running
A compelling insight into running for fun and for longevity rather than the need to win and succeed at all costs, and the differences between individual runners and what motivates and drives them. There are plenty of thought-provoking ideas for coaches, parents and athletes to discuss to enable healthy, lifelong habits. -- Ruth Waller-Liddle, physical therapist and competitive runner
Table of ContentsForeword Acknowledgments Introduction Chapter 1: Youth Running in the United States and Abroad Chapter 2: Body Basics Chapter 3: Gearing Up Chapter 4: Running in the Family Chapter 5: Nutrition for Health and Performance Chapter 6: The Role of a Mentor Chapter 7: The Breakdown Lane Chapter 8: Cross-Training Chapter 9: Mind Games Chapter 10: The Club Scene Chapter 11: Decisions Chapter 12: Through the Ages Conclusion Bibliography Suggested Resources Index About the Authors
