Best running books for marathoners

A lengthy, but invaluable, running book for marathoners

There are hundreds of running books on the market, and I've probably read all of them. Some offer great insights on training, nutrition or racing, but others simply repeat the same information you've heard before.

The best running books are written by recognized running experts and provide information that will actually help you be a better runner. Whether your goal is to run faster, eat better or prevent injuries, these running books for marathoners provide invaluable information for runners.

1. Advanced Marathoning, Pete Pfitzinger & Scott Douglas

Advanced Marathoning is one of the best running books for serious marathoners who want to get faster. This book is a training bible for many runners, and it is technical while still being easy to read and understand. Pfitzinger covers training, nutrition, recovery and racing strategy, but the real value of this book is in the training plans. Advanced Marathoning contains marathon training plans that can work for a variety of runners, including 12-, 18- and 24-week training plans for those who want to max out at 55, 70 or 70+ miles per week. There are also a number of training schedules for those running multiple marathons. Overall, this running book is a must-read for any serious marathoner. 

2. Marathon: The Ultimate Training Guide, Hal Higdon

This running book is a faster read than Advanced Marathoning, but author Hal Higdon also offers training plans for novice, intermediate and advanced runners. Higdon takes a different approach to marathoning than Pete Pfitzinger, whose plans include a good amount of speedwork. Hal Hidgon's plans, on the other hand, don't include strides or V02 max workouts, so they may be a better choice for those who don't yet feel comfortable with speedwork. Higdon does include one marathon-pace run each week. Overall, this running book is a good choice for new marathoners. 

3. Sports Nutrition for Endurance Athletes, Monique Ryan

This book isn't solely about running, but Monique Ryan lays out detailed nutrient requirements and eating plans for a variety of athletes. Runners, cyclists, triathletes, rowers and swimmers will all find useful information here. There are numerous "sports nutrition" books out there, but few are as detailed as this one. You'll learn exactly how many grams of carbohydrates to take in before your long run, and the best mixture of protein and carbs for post-run recovery. This is one of the best running books for runners who want more information on how their diet impacts marathon training.

4. Lore of Running, Tim Noakes, MD

You're not going to read this 920-page beast in one sitting, but you'll refer back to it for years. Lore of Running is incredibly technical and it's not a light read, but this is the running book to get if you want to learn about body adaptations or the science behind tapering. Lore of Running may be a tad overwhelming for new marathoners, but it's an invaluable resource for serious runners. 

5. How to Train For and Run Your Best Marathon, Gordon Bakoulis Bloch

This running book is a pretty easy read (especially compared to Lore of Running!), but it offers helpful information for new racers, including what to bring to your marathon and what to expect during, before and after your race. Gordon Bakoulis Bloch also provides helpful information on marathon recovery. Overall, a good running book for new marathoners. 

Look for my recommendations for the best running books for new runners and mid-distance runners in a future article.