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Born to Run 2: The Ultimate Training Guide
Born to Run 's Chris McDougall and long-time running coach Eric Orton show us how to join the global barefoot running movement and explore the world on our own two feet.
Born to Run 2: The Ultimate Training Guide teaches every runner, new or experienced, how to master humankind's first true superpower and tap into hidden reserves of strength and stamina. With chapters dedicated to the Free Seven - Food, Fitness, Form, Focus, Footwear, Fun and Family - we learn exactly how to change our biomechanics, clean up our diets, heal our injuries, adapt to healthier footwear, and prepare for our dream challenge.
Packed with advice and inspiring stories from runners who have made the transition, it includes:
- A rock-solid food primer on optimum diet and power-packed On the Run recipes
- Techniques for running with dogs and baby buggies to help you run with the whole family
- 'Perfect Form' exercises that will overhaul your stride in less than ten minutes
- A 90-Day Run Free Programme, designed to give everything you need to run faster and farther, forever.
Born to Run 2: The Ultimate Training Guide teaches every runner, new or experienced, how to master humankind's first true superpower and tap into hidden reserves of strength and stamina. With chapters dedicated to the Free Seven - Food, Fitness, Form, Focus, Footwear, Fun and Family - we learn exactly how to change our biomechanics, clean up our diets, heal our injuries, adapt to healthier footwear, and prepare for our dream challenge.
Packed with advice and inspiring stories from runners who have made the transition, it includes:
- A rock-solid food primer on optimum diet and power-packed On the Run recipes
- Techniques for running with dogs and baby buggies to help you run with the whole family
- 'Perfect Form' exercises that will overhaul your stride in less than ten minutes
- A 90-Day Run Free Programme, designed to give everything you need to run faster and farther, forever.
272 pages, Paperback
Published December 6, 2022
About the author
Christopher McDougall
24 books1,167 followersChristopher McDougall is an American author and journalist best known for his 2009 best-selling book Born to Run: A Hidden Tribe, Superathletes, and the Greatest Race the World Has Never Seen. He has also written for Esquire, The New York Times Magazine, Outside, Men's Journal, and New York, and was a contributing editor for Men's Health.
McDougall is a 1985 graduate of Harvard University. He spent three years as a foreign correspondent for the Associated Press, covering civil wars in Rwanda and Angola.
McDougall is a 1985 graduate of Harvard University. He spent three years as a foreign correspondent for the Associated Press, covering civil wars in Rwanda and Angola.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 129 reviews
January 5, 2023
I know why everyone doesn’t love this book. It can feel pressure-filled or overly idealistic and somewhat reductive in its explanations but here is why I love it: I’ve been a runner for about 25 years in one capacity or another. I’ve run races at all lengths and had some measured success here and there (2:40 marathon, 1:13 half, 15:30 5K). But, over the past years I’ve gotten lazy with my form, battled dumb injuries and lost some joy in the journey. In 2010 Born to Run helped me re-calibrate and the results were positive. This time around, in my 40s, I needed a practical, inspirational “how to” to begin again as it were. And so far, so good. The conclusion of the Caballo Blanco story and illustrated strength exercises are different but all helpful. Listen, I don’t buy every word as gospel and I’ll modify the 90 day plan according to my own needs but I will absolutely recommend this book to new runners, experienced ones, people stuck in a rut or those struggling with nagging injuries. And honestly, this is worth a read if for Rock Lobster alone!
December 30, 2022
Not a continuation of book one, but a training guide with most of the people from book one.
- Food
Maffetone Method, re-attune your body to burn fats (plentiful) instead of carbs (limited) for better performance = no beans, grains, fruits
- Form
1. straight posture
2. natural foot strike with heels kissing the ground lightly
3. cadence 180
- Focus
Music is audio ibuprofen, a numbing agent... better to learn to focus on breathing and cadence... all else is a distraction
- Fun
Should you really Goggins yourself into the hospital room to become the "hardest man ever created"...?! What kind of mammal does that?
- Family
Packing running... tried and true mammalian practice
- Injuries
Higher cadence, less ground contact time, less stress on joints
- Food
Maffetone Method, re-attune your body to burn fats (plentiful) instead of carbs (limited) for better performance = no beans, grains, fruits
- Form
1. straight posture
2. natural foot strike with heels kissing the ground lightly
3. cadence 180
- Focus
Music is audio ibuprofen, a numbing agent... better to learn to focus on breathing and cadence... all else is a distraction
- Fun
Should you really Goggins yourself into the hospital room to become the "hardest man ever created"...?! What kind of mammal does that?
- Family
Packing running... tried and true mammalian practice
- Injuries
Higher cadence, less ground contact time, less stress on joints
November 8, 2022
Trash.
Bad writing. No story. Bad explanations of the program. Bashing anyone who doesn’t believe in the bare-foot approach.
Makes me question if I even liked BTR1.
Bad writing. No story. Bad explanations of the program. Bashing anyone who doesn’t believe in the bare-foot approach.
Makes me question if I even liked BTR1.
November 18, 2022
If you remove all humble bragging about how Born to Run was such a success and all psuedo-scientific dieting advice, you're left with maybe 20 pages of decent running lessons.
November 6, 2022
Didn’t love it.
The appeal of B2R1 was the character and narrative driven format. It acted as an engaging delivery system for transmitting the author’s theory around bare foot running and other incidental running-related info.
In B2R2, largely gone are the lovable rogues, most of the personalities from the Tarahumara, and (seemingly) any meaningful first-person character development from the author(s).
What we do have here, is a dry examination of nutritional impacts on performance (undoubtedly legitimate), a few exercise routines, and (inexplicably) what appeared to be an attempt by the authors to engage in a bit of virtue signaling.
Yes, it’s framed as ‘the ultimate training guide’ but as a sequel to B2R1 I had expected a bit of color and movement. As it stands, the book is more of an homage to keto/paleo, than the rollicking romp through the Central American canyons I had come to expect.
Not for me.
The appeal of B2R1 was the character and narrative driven format. It acted as an engaging delivery system for transmitting the author’s theory around bare foot running and other incidental running-related info.
In B2R2, largely gone are the lovable rogues, most of the personalities from the Tarahumara, and (seemingly) any meaningful first-person character development from the author(s).
What we do have here, is a dry examination of nutritional impacts on performance (undoubtedly legitimate), a few exercise routines, and (inexplicably) what appeared to be an attempt by the authors to engage in a bit of virtue signaling.
Yes, it’s framed as ‘the ultimate training guide’ but as a sequel to B2R1 I had expected a bit of color and movement. As it stands, the book is more of an homage to keto/paleo, than the rollicking romp through the Central American canyons I had come to expect.
Not for me.
November 15, 2022
An easily-digestible read dense with interesting running information geared toward getting a runner back to "the basics", which is to say away from the trappings of modern-day running culture (e.g. fitness fads, sophisticated shoes).
McDougall is who comes to mind when I think of advocates for making the most of running with as little as possible; not only does this carry the potential to be incredibly easy on the wallet, but he emphasizes that running should, first and foremost, remain *fun*. This book, while not having the narrative heft that one might expect from his other books, fills the gaps by including recipes, running plans, and strength-building exercises that you can do practically anywhere.
It's a nifty, helpful running guide for any period, but, in this post-pandemic, work-from-home era, there's a certain spark to this sequel that gives it more lift than usual. Speaking to my own experiences, I had two consecutive foot injuries this calendar year that had my gait way off--I just couldn't get past myself, bypass the fear of future injury, and find my natural, comfortable stride.
This book gave me a tip that had me running comfortably again in minutes, which also sped my pace back up substantially.
Maybe running isn't for everybody, but BTR 2 sure allows for the reader to be in the best spot possible to answer that question.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Knopf, Pantheon, Vintage, and Anchor for the advance read.
McDougall is who comes to mind when I think of advocates for making the most of running with as little as possible; not only does this carry the potential to be incredibly easy on the wallet, but he emphasizes that running should, first and foremost, remain *fun*. This book, while not having the narrative heft that one might expect from his other books, fills the gaps by including recipes, running plans, and strength-building exercises that you can do practically anywhere.
It's a nifty, helpful running guide for any period, but, in this post-pandemic, work-from-home era, there's a certain spark to this sequel that gives it more lift than usual. Speaking to my own experiences, I had two consecutive foot injuries this calendar year that had my gait way off--I just couldn't get past myself, bypass the fear of future injury, and find my natural, comfortable stride.
This book gave me a tip that had me running comfortably again in minutes, which also sped my pace back up substantially.
Maybe running isn't for everybody, but BTR 2 sure allows for the reader to be in the best spot possible to answer that question.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Knopf, Pantheon, Vintage, and Anchor for the advance read.
June 6, 2023
Not great organization as a training manual, but this has transformed how I run! Now it’s becoming something I want to do, instead of just something I feel like I need to do.
February 21, 2024
… I want to run an ultra
This book is exactly what it claims to be. A guide. More of a manual. If you’re expecting Born to Run, this isn’t it. This will definitely be a common reference on my bookshelf for years to come though.
This book is exactly what it claims to be. A guide. More of a manual. If you’re expecting Born to Run, this isn’t it. This will definitely be a common reference on my bookshelf for years to come though.
April 10, 2023
DNF’d, ha! Actually, I skipped, and skimmed. It is a silly book, and I feel silly for the time I wasted with it. In fact, as one reviewer said, it makes me wonder if I even liked the first one. There is no reason to read this book. I feel like I’ve been taken advantage of - I want a refund. Ridiculous.
April 21, 2023
2nd Macdougall book I’ve read since Born to Run and have been disappointed both times. Don’t think I took away anything useful from this book and I think the minimalist shoe revolution is a bunch of baloney. If you’re a total beginner with running or have chronically struggled with injuries maybe some of the exercises would be helpful, but otherwise this is a waste of time
April 20, 2023
Given the time it took me to read this, seems fairly obvious that I didn’t enjoy it like I wish I had. Loved the first one but this just went in odd directions sometimes. Still, a book on running isn’t a waste of time! But I won’t come back to this one like I will the original. 4.5/10
September 9, 2023
This book got a lot of negative reviews for having a smug and superior tone. I didn't quite get that feeling about it, but I did have lots of other feelings about it as follows:
1) For the love of god, why is it in such a small font? One target audience is people who have lost the joy of running... well, a lot of those people are older and have terrible vision, so what's with the 6-point font? (It might be bigger than that; I didn't really check what it is.)
2) I really hate how the book is all "this way is better because it's beautiful and free and simple like our ancestors ran!" and then the how-to includes very long lists of annoying stretches and exercises that are not at all fun and that also need to be done with good form in order to be effective, but how do you know if you have good form unless you hire a coach which is a luxury that I don't think our hunter-gatherer ancestors had? Calling these exercises Movement Snacks does not make them at all appealing.
3) This guy has a lot to say about running shoe manufacturers and how they profit from selling things that are causing injuries, but have you seen the price of Altras lately? Also, I don't know anyone who has not gotten injured when trying to switch to barefoot or minimalist running shoes, and I also don't know anyone who tried to do that without easing into it like all the experts say to do. In other words, I don't buy that no/minimalist shoes is any kind of safeguard against injury. ALL runners get injured! Despite my cushioned and therefore terrible shoes, and total lack of Movement Snacks, I haven't had a running injury in 5+ years.
4) I have followed a diet similar to this one for 6-ish months in the past. Yes I ran faster and lost a lot of weight, but I was miserable the whole entire time and my sugar cravings NEVER disappeared.
5) The stories and pictures are inspiring. They did make me feel, for the first time in years, some excitement and motivation about the idea of running. That is not a feat easily accomplished, so I have to give credit where credit is due.
6) The problem with this book to me is not anything about the way it's written, it's that I just don't like the author or most of the people he writes about. They don't sound cool or fun, they sound like runners who think they are better than other runners, and that is my least favorite kind of runner.
1) For the love of god, why is it in such a small font? One target audience is people who have lost the joy of running... well, a lot of those people are older and have terrible vision, so what's with the 6-point font? (It might be bigger than that; I didn't really check what it is.)
2) I really hate how the book is all "this way is better because it's beautiful and free and simple like our ancestors ran!" and then the how-to includes very long lists of annoying stretches and exercises that are not at all fun and that also need to be done with good form in order to be effective, but how do you know if you have good form unless you hire a coach which is a luxury that I don't think our hunter-gatherer ancestors had? Calling these exercises Movement Snacks does not make them at all appealing.
3) This guy has a lot to say about running shoe manufacturers and how they profit from selling things that are causing injuries, but have you seen the price of Altras lately? Also, I don't know anyone who has not gotten injured when trying to switch to barefoot or minimalist running shoes, and I also don't know anyone who tried to do that without easing into it like all the experts say to do. In other words, I don't buy that no/minimalist shoes is any kind of safeguard against injury. ALL runners get injured! Despite my cushioned and therefore terrible shoes, and total lack of Movement Snacks, I haven't had a running injury in 5+ years.
4) I have followed a diet similar to this one for 6-ish months in the past. Yes I ran faster and lost a lot of weight, but I was miserable the whole entire time and my sugar cravings NEVER disappeared.
5) The stories and pictures are inspiring. They did make me feel, for the first time in years, some excitement and motivation about the idea of running. That is not a feat easily accomplished, so I have to give credit where credit is due.
6) The problem with this book to me is not anything about the way it's written, it's that I just don't like the author or most of the people he writes about. They don't sound cool or fun, they sound like runners who think they are better than other runners, and that is my least favorite kind of runner.
January 16, 2024
- Love the bright coloured pictures and how some pages are coloured - such a treat in a book for adults
- The pictures provide a pleasant break to the text and often helped with understanding a particular movement etc
- The diet recommendations seem a bit extreme (lots of it makes sense - but no full fat yogurt or quinoa?)
- Some of the stories are more like journaling and didn’t do much to further the book.
- It was hard to keep track of who the stories were about but it didn’t really matter who the subject was so long as the message was clear.
- Full of helpful recommendations and certainly inspiring- I’ve wanted to get out running and try out new techniques each time I’ve picked up this book
- I like the idea of using the exercises and form tips to prevent and cure problems.
- Thrilled to find out that the runners I already use are one on the recommended list!
- I wish they had addressed what to do with your arms - lots of focus on barefoot running form for the lower body but what’s good for the arms? How do you prevent getting sore arms on a long run from having them bent at your sides? Or what is a good position for arms in terms of assisting momentum/balance etc?
- The pictures provide a pleasant break to the text and often helped with understanding a particular movement etc
- The diet recommendations seem a bit extreme (lots of it makes sense - but no full fat yogurt or quinoa?)
- Some of the stories are more like journaling and didn’t do much to further the book.
- It was hard to keep track of who the stories were about but it didn’t really matter who the subject was so long as the message was clear.
- Full of helpful recommendations and certainly inspiring- I’ve wanted to get out running and try out new techniques each time I’ve picked up this book
- I like the idea of using the exercises and form tips to prevent and cure problems.
- Thrilled to find out that the runners I already use are one on the recommended list!
- I wish they had addressed what to do with your arms - lots of focus on barefoot running form for the lower body but what’s good for the arms? How do you prevent getting sore arms on a long run from having them bent at your sides? Or what is a good position for arms in terms of assisting momentum/balance etc?
January 14, 2023
A very enjoyable guide to running -- I really the concept of "movement snacks" (small warm-up type exercises) and also liked some of the recipes in the eating section.
I'm a big fan of McDougall's work, and this felt like he was putting together all the pieces from his previous books into one guide for happy, healthy movement and lifestyle.
I'm a big fan of McDougall's work, and this felt like he was putting together all the pieces from his previous books into one guide for happy, healthy movement and lifestyle.
February 10, 2024
I’ve taken some great lessons from this book and have tried a number of different things (shoes, exercises, recipes) that were suggested. It’s a book I will be sure to dip in and out of during my running career. Some of it was a bit hard-core and probably not for me. However this was a great second book in the Born to Run series.
Read
March 2, 2023While I don’t necessarily agree with everything that is proposed in this book, I really love seeing the insights and research behind it all. I’ve been incorporating some drills from the book in my training and I’m feeling better for it!
December 16, 2022
Not the same appeal as Born to Run as it doesn’t have the same storytelling aspect, but that’s not what it sets out to be. To me this is a an training manual that Oso wove together with some storytelling, including follow ups as to what happened with some of the cast.
It was exactly what I wanted though. I had not heard of or read Born to Run until Summer 2022, and I picked it up from the library on a whim, zipped through it and then thought great, now what? My timing was lucky in that B2R2 was available for preorder by that time. So it came at a perfect time for my running journey because I’m fairly new and wanted a training plan to help get me on track. Won’t be for everyone, but if that is what you are looking for, it’s what you get along with a few ideas on how to stay motivated and keep running and fitness in general fun forever.
It was exactly what I wanted though. I had not heard of or read Born to Run until Summer 2022, and I picked it up from the library on a whim, zipped through it and then thought great, now what? My timing was lucky in that B2R2 was available for preorder by that time. So it came at a perfect time for my running journey because I’m fairly new and wanted a training plan to help get me on track. Won’t be for everyone, but if that is what you are looking for, it’s what you get along with a few ideas on how to stay motivated and keep running and fitness in general fun forever.
March 29, 2023
truly i have talked about this book to everyone who will listen to me, major slay
April 8, 2023
Hate to say it, but nothing like the first one. Feels like a sequel that didn’t need to be written. A little scattered. Not sure what the central idea or story is in this book.
March 30, 2024
Running Between the Lines: A Critical Look at 'Born to Run' and 'Born to Run 2’
Introduction
In today's blog post, I delve into a comparative analysis and personal opinion of two prominent books in the running world: "Born to Run" by Christopher McDougall and "Born to Run 2: The Ultimate Training Guide" by Christopher McDougall and Eric Orton. As a recreational runner who has independently read both books, I aim to provide an insightful summary, comparison, and critique of their content.
It's important to note that I purchased both books myself, without any involvement from the publishers or authors. Neither book was sent to me for review, nor was I compensated for writing this critique. The opinions expressed here are solely based on my own reading experience and analysis as a reader and runner. With that in mind, let's explore these two influential works and evaluate their impact on the running community.
Born to Run
"Born to Run" by Christopher McDougall is a captivating narrative that explores the world of ultra-distance running through the lens of the Tarahumara, a reclusive tribe living in the Copper Canyons of Mexico. McDougall delves into the fascinating history of human endurance running, questioning conventional wisdom about running shoes, injury prevention, and the limits of human performance.
The book follows McDougall's journey to understand the secrets of the Tarahumara, renowned for their ability to run long distances with ease. Along the way, he encounters remarkable characters, including elite ultra-runners like Scott Jurek and enigmatic figures like Caballo Blanco, who organizes a race in the heart of Tarahumara territory.
McDougall weaves together science, history, and personal anecdotes to uncover the innate human capacity for running and the importance of community, perseverance, and simplicity in the pursuit of physical excellence. Ultimately, "Born to Run" is a celebration of the joy of running and a testament to the transformative power of the sport.
Born to Run 2
"Born to Run 2: The Ultimate Training Guide" is a comprehensive program designed for runners of all levels, focusing on seven essential themes: food, fitness, form, footwear, focus, fun, and family. The book presents a 90-day training schedule, incorporating these elements into an actionable plan to prepare for a range of running challenges, from short fun runs to grueling ultramarathons.
Drawing from personal experience, the guide shares techniques for overcoming injury and transforming from a discouraged, overweight ex-athlete into an ultramarathoner capable of competing in a 50-mile race alongside Mexico's legendary Running People. It includes valuable insights into nutrition, featuring a food primer and power-packed "On the Run" recipes. Additionally, it offers guidance on running with dogs and baby buggies, as well as "Perfect Form" exercises to improve running technique in a short timeframe.
Described as "invaluable" and a "must-read for every runner," the book is praised for its inspirational content. By combining training principles with supplementary work, "Born to Run 2" aims to help runners rejuvenate their running experience, enhance performance, and derive greater enjoyment from the sport.
In summary, "Born to Run 2: The Ultimate Training Guide" offers a comprehensive approach to running training, encompassing various facets such as diet, fitness, form, and footwear to support runners in their quest for improvement and fulfillment in the sport.
Comparison of the 2 Books
Focus and Content:
"Born to Run": Christopher McDougall's original book, "Born to Run," is a narrative non-fiction work that explores the world of ultra-distance running through the lens of the Tarahumara tribe in Mexico. It delves into the history, culture, and science behind human endurance running, challenging conventional wisdom about running shoes, injury prevention, and performance limits.
"Born to Run 2": This book, co-authored by Christopher McDougall and Eric Orton, serves as a comprehensive training guide for runners. It offers a structured program focused on various aspects of running, including nutrition, fitness, form, footwear, focus, fun, and family. Unlike the narrative style of the original book, "Born to Run 2" provides actionable advice and training schedules to help runners of all levels improve their performance and enjoyment of the sport.
Narrative vs. Training Guide:
"Born to Run": McDougall's "Born to Run" is primarily a narrative-driven exploration of ultra-distance running, interspersed with personal anecdotes, historical accounts, and scientific insights. It tells the story of McDougall's journey to uncover the secrets of the Tarahumara and his own transformation as a runner.
"Born to Run 2": In contrast, "Born to Run 2" functions as a practical training guide, offering structured advice and exercises to help readers enhance their running abilities. While it may still include some personal stories and anecdotes, its primary focus is on providing readers with actionable steps to improve their running performance and overall well-being.
Audience and Purpose:
"Born to Run": McDougall's original book appeals to a broad audience interested in running, adventure, and human potential. It aims to entertain, inspire, and challenge readers' perspectives on running and fitness.
"Born to Run 2": This training guide is geared toward runners who are seeking practical advice and guidance to improve their performance. It targets readers who are actively engaged in the sport and are looking for structured training programs and tips to enhance their abilities.
Style and Format:
"Born to Run": Written in a narrative style, "Born to Run" is structured around storytelling, with chapters flowing seamlessly from one anecdote or revelation to the next. It's immersive and engaging, drawing readers into the world of ultra-distance running.
"Born to Run 2": "Born to Run 2" follows a more structured format typical of training guides. It presents information in a clear and organized manner, with sections devoted to different aspects of training, nutrition, and technique. It includes practical exercises, schedules, and tips for readers to implement in their own running routines.
In summary, while both "Born to Run" and "Born to Run 2: The Ultimate Training Guide" share a common focus on running, they differ in their format, content, and purpose. "Born to Run" offers a narrative exploration of the sport, while "Born to Run 2" provides a practical training framework for runners seeking to improve their performance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while "Born to Run" and "Born to Run 2: The Ultimate Training Guide" offer unique perspectives on the world of running, they ultimately fell short of my expectations. As someone who approached these books with an open mind and a genuine interest in exploring unconventional approaches to the sport, I found myself disappointed by their dogmatic stance on certain aspects, particularly the emphasis on running barefoot.
While I appreciate the authors' enthusiasm for presenting running as a natural human endeavor and their efforts to challenge traditional paradigms, I believe they missed the mark by promoting a somewhat rigid and inflexible approach. The insistence on barefoot running, for example, may not be suitable or practical for all runners, and the lack of flexibility in acknowledging alternative methods detracted from my overall enjoyment of the books.
In addition, the style of both books often felt incohesive, characterized by excessive ranting, rambling, and stories that failed to captivate. Rather than maintaining a clear and focused narrative, the authors seemed to veer off track, delving into tangents that detracted from the overall coherence of the text. This lack of cohesion made the reading experience unengaging and uninspired, as I struggled to connect with the disjointed flow of ideas and anecdotes. Overall, the disjointed style of the books further dampened my enjoyment and contributed to my lukewarm reception of their content.
On a positive note, both books offer valuable insights into the joy and camaraderie of running, and I commend them for encouraging readers to explore their physical potential and embrace the sport's adventurous spirit. However, their limitations in presenting a more nuanced and inclusive perspective prevent me from wholeheartedly recommending them.
On a scale from 1 to 5, with 5 being the highest rating, I would give both "Born to Run" and "Born to Run 2: The Ultimate Training Guide" a rating of 3 at most. While they have their merits, their dogmatic approach and lack of flexibility detract from their overall appeal in my humble opinion.
© Francesc Borrull, 2024
As published in my blogpost
References:
McDougall, C. (2009). Born to Run: A Hidden Tribe, Superathletes, and the Greatest Race the World Has Never Seen. Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group.
McDougall, C., & Orton, E. (2023). Born to Run 2: The Ultimate Training Guide. Random House.
Introduction
In today's blog post, I delve into a comparative analysis and personal opinion of two prominent books in the running world: "Born to Run" by Christopher McDougall and "Born to Run 2: The Ultimate Training Guide" by Christopher McDougall and Eric Orton. As a recreational runner who has independently read both books, I aim to provide an insightful summary, comparison, and critique of their content.
It's important to note that I purchased both books myself, without any involvement from the publishers or authors. Neither book was sent to me for review, nor was I compensated for writing this critique. The opinions expressed here are solely based on my own reading experience and analysis as a reader and runner. With that in mind, let's explore these two influential works and evaluate their impact on the running community.
Born to Run
"Born to Run" by Christopher McDougall is a captivating narrative that explores the world of ultra-distance running through the lens of the Tarahumara, a reclusive tribe living in the Copper Canyons of Mexico. McDougall delves into the fascinating history of human endurance running, questioning conventional wisdom about running shoes, injury prevention, and the limits of human performance.
The book follows McDougall's journey to understand the secrets of the Tarahumara, renowned for their ability to run long distances with ease. Along the way, he encounters remarkable characters, including elite ultra-runners like Scott Jurek and enigmatic figures like Caballo Blanco, who organizes a race in the heart of Tarahumara territory.
McDougall weaves together science, history, and personal anecdotes to uncover the innate human capacity for running and the importance of community, perseverance, and simplicity in the pursuit of physical excellence. Ultimately, "Born to Run" is a celebration of the joy of running and a testament to the transformative power of the sport.
Born to Run 2
"Born to Run 2: The Ultimate Training Guide" is a comprehensive program designed for runners of all levels, focusing on seven essential themes: food, fitness, form, footwear, focus, fun, and family. The book presents a 90-day training schedule, incorporating these elements into an actionable plan to prepare for a range of running challenges, from short fun runs to grueling ultramarathons.
Drawing from personal experience, the guide shares techniques for overcoming injury and transforming from a discouraged, overweight ex-athlete into an ultramarathoner capable of competing in a 50-mile race alongside Mexico's legendary Running People. It includes valuable insights into nutrition, featuring a food primer and power-packed "On the Run" recipes. Additionally, it offers guidance on running with dogs and baby buggies, as well as "Perfect Form" exercises to improve running technique in a short timeframe.
Described as "invaluable" and a "must-read for every runner," the book is praised for its inspirational content. By combining training principles with supplementary work, "Born to Run 2" aims to help runners rejuvenate their running experience, enhance performance, and derive greater enjoyment from the sport.
In summary, "Born to Run 2: The Ultimate Training Guide" offers a comprehensive approach to running training, encompassing various facets such as diet, fitness, form, and footwear to support runners in their quest for improvement and fulfillment in the sport.
Comparison of the 2 Books
Focus and Content:
"Born to Run": Christopher McDougall's original book, "Born to Run," is a narrative non-fiction work that explores the world of ultra-distance running through the lens of the Tarahumara tribe in Mexico. It delves into the history, culture, and science behind human endurance running, challenging conventional wisdom about running shoes, injury prevention, and performance limits.
"Born to Run 2": This book, co-authored by Christopher McDougall and Eric Orton, serves as a comprehensive training guide for runners. It offers a structured program focused on various aspects of running, including nutrition, fitness, form, footwear, focus, fun, and family. Unlike the narrative style of the original book, "Born to Run 2" provides actionable advice and training schedules to help runners of all levels improve their performance and enjoyment of the sport.
Narrative vs. Training Guide:
"Born to Run": McDougall's "Born to Run" is primarily a narrative-driven exploration of ultra-distance running, interspersed with personal anecdotes, historical accounts, and scientific insights. It tells the story of McDougall's journey to uncover the secrets of the Tarahumara and his own transformation as a runner.
"Born to Run 2": In contrast, "Born to Run 2" functions as a practical training guide, offering structured advice and exercises to help readers enhance their running abilities. While it may still include some personal stories and anecdotes, its primary focus is on providing readers with actionable steps to improve their running performance and overall well-being.
Audience and Purpose:
"Born to Run": McDougall's original book appeals to a broad audience interested in running, adventure, and human potential. It aims to entertain, inspire, and challenge readers' perspectives on running and fitness.
"Born to Run 2": This training guide is geared toward runners who are seeking practical advice and guidance to improve their performance. It targets readers who are actively engaged in the sport and are looking for structured training programs and tips to enhance their abilities.
Style and Format:
"Born to Run": Written in a narrative style, "Born to Run" is structured around storytelling, with chapters flowing seamlessly from one anecdote or revelation to the next. It's immersive and engaging, drawing readers into the world of ultra-distance running.
"Born to Run 2": "Born to Run 2" follows a more structured format typical of training guides. It presents information in a clear and organized manner, with sections devoted to different aspects of training, nutrition, and technique. It includes practical exercises, schedules, and tips for readers to implement in their own running routines.
In summary, while both "Born to Run" and "Born to Run 2: The Ultimate Training Guide" share a common focus on running, they differ in their format, content, and purpose. "Born to Run" offers a narrative exploration of the sport, while "Born to Run 2" provides a practical training framework for runners seeking to improve their performance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while "Born to Run" and "Born to Run 2: The Ultimate Training Guide" offer unique perspectives on the world of running, they ultimately fell short of my expectations. As someone who approached these books with an open mind and a genuine interest in exploring unconventional approaches to the sport, I found myself disappointed by their dogmatic stance on certain aspects, particularly the emphasis on running barefoot.
While I appreciate the authors' enthusiasm for presenting running as a natural human endeavor and their efforts to challenge traditional paradigms, I believe they missed the mark by promoting a somewhat rigid and inflexible approach. The insistence on barefoot running, for example, may not be suitable or practical for all runners, and the lack of flexibility in acknowledging alternative methods detracted from my overall enjoyment of the books.
In addition, the style of both books often felt incohesive, characterized by excessive ranting, rambling, and stories that failed to captivate. Rather than maintaining a clear and focused narrative, the authors seemed to veer off track, delving into tangents that detracted from the overall coherence of the text. This lack of cohesion made the reading experience unengaging and uninspired, as I struggled to connect with the disjointed flow of ideas and anecdotes. Overall, the disjointed style of the books further dampened my enjoyment and contributed to my lukewarm reception of their content.
On a positive note, both books offer valuable insights into the joy and camaraderie of running, and I commend them for encouraging readers to explore their physical potential and embrace the sport's adventurous spirit. However, their limitations in presenting a more nuanced and inclusive perspective prevent me from wholeheartedly recommending them.
On a scale from 1 to 5, with 5 being the highest rating, I would give both "Born to Run" and "Born to Run 2: The Ultimate Training Guide" a rating of 3 at most. While they have their merits, their dogmatic approach and lack of flexibility detract from their overall appeal in my humble opinion.
© Francesc Borrull, 2024
As published in my blogpost
References:
McDougall, C. (2009). Born to Run: A Hidden Tribe, Superathletes, and the Greatest Race the World Has Never Seen. Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group.
McDougall, C., & Orton, E. (2023). Born to Run 2: The Ultimate Training Guide. Random House.
February 21, 2023
i mean ,, idk.
sometimes i was reading and i was like what on earth is HAPPENING ?!? or is this even real??
i liked how fired up it has me to run more but everything else ¿ tbd
sometimes i was reading and i was like what on earth is HAPPENING ?!? or is this even real??
i liked how fired up it has me to run more but everything else ¿ tbd
January 4, 2024
I was really excited to read this book when I received it as a gift. I was immediately put off but claims about gait analysis (and thus buying associated shoe recommendations) being a cause for increased injury; perhaps it is,however, the author specifically states “studies show…” but provides no references. The diet section continued to spout non-scientific claims with no references. The book states that diets are inherently bad, but then encourages readers to cut out a significant portion of a normal, balanced diet (all sugar products, “many canned and prepared veggies,” rice, potatoes, bananas, etc.) for two weeks to “reset their appetite” and “restore [their] natural metabolism.”Unless this protocol is prescribed by a medical doctor or licensed dietician for a specific reason, it’s completely unnecessary for the average person. For those claims above, I lost trust in the author and DNF’d. I am disappointed in this book, as I believe it had an opportunity to be a great reference point for both new and advanced runners, but it fell short in providing science-backed recommendations and advice.
January 24, 2023
If you loved Born to Run … you might want to skip Born to Run 2. Gone is the adventure of the copper canyon ultra told by a man finding his love of running. Replaced with barefoot running zealotry and uninteresting anecdotes.
January 1, 2023
What a let down. The training parts are ok but loads of filler with lots of unnecessary people. A whole chapter about zero drop shoes - yawn - that is not entirely consistent in its argument.
July 24, 2023
I heard this was more like a training guide then a story…I love born to run. This sucked so bad I wanted to quit running
September 11, 2023
So, I absolutely loved "Born to Run."
I didn't start running until I was close to 40 years old, had never been athletic in any way. I decided I wanted to run to get in shape, started enjoying the process, signed up for all kinds of mud runs and marathons and the rest.
Early on in my running (I can't remember when exactly) I read "Born to Run" and was just completely blown away, inspired.
I'll be turning 50 in a few weeks and I find myself more and more often dealing with (possibly running related) aches and pains. I've had to cancel a couple of big runs I'd planned due to back aches, knee pains, ankle issues and so on. Overall, my health has been great, better than most of my peers, and I attribute that in no small part to the running. But the pains have gotten more and more frequent and a doctor recently told me to get any of the big runs on my agenda finished in the next few years, as he doesn't think I'll be running past 55.
I heard McDougall and Eric Orton talking about this book on the Rich Roll Podcast, liked what I heard and had to pick up a copy.
I'm very glad I did.
To be clear, this is not another "Born to Run." It is not the adventure story, the narrative, the inspiring tale. There are inspirational bits and pieces, but this is a very, very different book. It's hard to say "better" or "worse" really because it's not at all a sequel, whatever the title might suggest.
Rather, this is a training book. A training book for those, like me, who would like to relearn the art of running in order to avoid injury, get more joy out of it, and continue going for many years to come.
There are inspirational stories and exciting anecdotes in here, but mostly this is about changing up form, retraining the body and mind, learning the art of barefoot (or barefoot-ish) running. It ends with a 90 day "Run Free" training program. I haven't started that yet-- I'm the type who needs to read it, process it, then put it into action, so I will be starting this Thursday. But I've dabbled with the techniques and exercises and find it all quite promising and exciting.
My only complaint here has to do with the chapter on diet and nutrition. I was pretty disappointed in that. It seems to be awfully similar to the low-carb, Atkins-esque nonsense that, though it can get quick short term results, has been debunked plenty of times. As a vegan who focuses on whole foods, I won't be trying any of the suggestions from that chapter. Veganism aside, loading up on high fat meats and other nonsense and avoiding healthy fruits and veggies just sounds like a bad idea.
Aside from that, I found this book to be pretty solid. An easy read, broken into manageable lessons and narratives. Beautiful photography, beautiful layout.
I'm excited to get to the training and optimistic that I'll see some progress.
I didn't start running until I was close to 40 years old, had never been athletic in any way. I decided I wanted to run to get in shape, started enjoying the process, signed up for all kinds of mud runs and marathons and the rest.
Early on in my running (I can't remember when exactly) I read "Born to Run" and was just completely blown away, inspired.
I'll be turning 50 in a few weeks and I find myself more and more often dealing with (possibly running related) aches and pains. I've had to cancel a couple of big runs I'd planned due to back aches, knee pains, ankle issues and so on. Overall, my health has been great, better than most of my peers, and I attribute that in no small part to the running. But the pains have gotten more and more frequent and a doctor recently told me to get any of the big runs on my agenda finished in the next few years, as he doesn't think I'll be running past 55.
I heard McDougall and Eric Orton talking about this book on the Rich Roll Podcast, liked what I heard and had to pick up a copy.
I'm very glad I did.
To be clear, this is not another "Born to Run." It is not the adventure story, the narrative, the inspiring tale. There are inspirational bits and pieces, but this is a very, very different book. It's hard to say "better" or "worse" really because it's not at all a sequel, whatever the title might suggest.
Rather, this is a training book. A training book for those, like me, who would like to relearn the art of running in order to avoid injury, get more joy out of it, and continue going for many years to come.
There are inspirational stories and exciting anecdotes in here, but mostly this is about changing up form, retraining the body and mind, learning the art of barefoot (or barefoot-ish) running. It ends with a 90 day "Run Free" training program. I haven't started that yet-- I'm the type who needs to read it, process it, then put it into action, so I will be starting this Thursday. But I've dabbled with the techniques and exercises and find it all quite promising and exciting.
My only complaint here has to do with the chapter on diet and nutrition. I was pretty disappointed in that. It seems to be awfully similar to the low-carb, Atkins-esque nonsense that, though it can get quick short term results, has been debunked plenty of times. As a vegan who focuses on whole foods, I won't be trying any of the suggestions from that chapter. Veganism aside, loading up on high fat meats and other nonsense and avoiding healthy fruits and veggies just sounds like a bad idea.
Aside from that, I found this book to be pretty solid. An easy read, broken into manageable lessons and narratives. Beautiful photography, beautiful layout.
I'm excited to get to the training and optimistic that I'll see some progress.
May 5, 2023
A bit of letdown after McDougall's Born to Run: A Hidden Tribe, Superathletes, and the Greatest Race the World Has Never Seen and Orton's The Cool Impossible: The Coach from "Born to Run" Shows How to Get the Most from Your Miles—and from Yourself. There is no compelling story to tie everything together, it's a bunch of vignettes strung together, more like a compilation of magazine articles on various facets of training and nutrition and athlete profiles than a unified story like the previous books.
It's geared more towards a general audience than the hardcore approach espoused by Orton, but is still quite radical in its demands and expectations. For instance, the programme commences with a 2-week restrictive keto diet that eliminates even such healthy foods like yogurt and chickpeas. So the pinole and bean burritos celebrated in Born to Run are right out, which just seems silly. Still, a 14-day day commitment is less extreme than the two 20-day "detox" sessions mandated in Orton's book.
The 1-mile test now also "generously" extends all the way up to 12 minutes from 10 (which is apparently as slow as Orton can imagine someone ever being able to run a mile) and stops at 4:00 min/mile pace instead of going all the way down to a world record pace of 3:45. In other words, despite the stated intention of getting more people running, this is no couch to 5k programme, this is for people who can already run fairly well for at least 20-30 minutes at a time a few times per week and are looking to improve from there.
The barriers to entry are also a bit lower. To appeal to the masses there is no requirement for a heart rate monitor or GPS watch, or for Orton's signature slanted/wobbly boards. They also concede that encouraging everyone to burn their Nikes and run 20 miles in sandals as advocated in Born to Run probably isn't the safest approach, begrudgingly acknowledging the pain and suffering that resulted. Instead, they offer some good advice at making the transition, including recommendations on what to look for in a minimalist running shoe for both road and trail running, without having to go full "barefoot."
It's geared more towards a general audience than the hardcore approach espoused by Orton, but is still quite radical in its demands and expectations. For instance, the programme commences with a 2-week restrictive keto diet that eliminates even such healthy foods like yogurt and chickpeas. So the pinole and bean burritos celebrated in Born to Run are right out, which just seems silly. Still, a 14-day day commitment is less extreme than the two 20-day "detox" sessions mandated in Orton's book.
The 1-mile test now also "generously" extends all the way up to 12 minutes from 10 (which is apparently as slow as Orton can imagine someone ever being able to run a mile) and stops at 4:00 min/mile pace instead of going all the way down to a world record pace of 3:45. In other words, despite the stated intention of getting more people running, this is no couch to 5k programme, this is for people who can already run fairly well for at least 20-30 minutes at a time a few times per week and are looking to improve from there.
The barriers to entry are also a bit lower. To appeal to the masses there is no requirement for a heart rate monitor or GPS watch, or for Orton's signature slanted/wobbly boards. They also concede that encouraging everyone to burn their Nikes and run 20 miles in sandals as advocated in Born to Run probably isn't the safest approach, begrudgingly acknowledging the pain and suffering that resulted. Instead, they offer some good advice at making the transition, including recommendations on what to look for in a minimalist running shoe for both road and trail running, without having to go full "barefoot."
May 8, 2023
It's a good book, but I have a bit of a problem with Christopher Mcdougall's overexcitement. There is an interesting chapter in Born to Run 1 about the research on the anatomy of mammals in the context of their ability to run. The author mentions a joking saying that when a scientist holds a hammer, everything looks like a nail. I feel like Mcdougall fell into the trap he described.
I am neither a running technique expert nor a nutrition expert. In Born to Run 1, the author, fascinated by Tarahumara runners, Scott Jurek and the plant-based diet in general, recalls research and expert statements proving that the plant-based diet is not only a great diet for runners (living proof of which is one of the best long-distance runners of all time Scott Jurek) but generally helps to avoid cancer and heart disease.
In Born to Run 2, published 16 years later, in the chapter on nutrition, the author radically changes his point of view. Now, fascinated by the Phil Maffetone method, he mentions only those athletes whose successes prove that you can run well on a low-carb-high-fat diet. Mcdougall mentions in one sentence that by supporting today's meat and dairy industry, we support institutions that change the lives of animals into hell on Earth. Life in a dark dirty box, ending with long hours of transport to the slaughterhouse in horrible conditions and death in agony by gas asphyxiation. The author seems to have a guilty conscience for supporting this industry but still believes that good results in trail running are more important than ending the hell on earth that we provide for animals.
The author no longer mentions the achievements of Scott Jurek, nor the most successful long-distance runner of our time, Killian Jornet (who, as he says, is almost completely plant-based). He devotes half a chapter to praising the diet of the Cretan Resistance fighters on whose diet the Phil Maffetone Method is based. A few chapters later, the author touts Julius Cesar's Roman army without mentioning that (according to widely available historical sources), they were predominantly vegetarian.
Still, a good book that I have benefited greatly from. The only thing I have to complain about is that the author considers the theories about the right way of running and eating, which he admires at the moment, to be the ultimate truths.
I am neither a running technique expert nor a nutrition expert. In Born to Run 1, the author, fascinated by Tarahumara runners, Scott Jurek and the plant-based diet in general, recalls research and expert statements proving that the plant-based diet is not only a great diet for runners (living proof of which is one of the best long-distance runners of all time Scott Jurek) but generally helps to avoid cancer and heart disease.
In Born to Run 2, published 16 years later, in the chapter on nutrition, the author radically changes his point of view. Now, fascinated by the Phil Maffetone method, he mentions only those athletes whose successes prove that you can run well on a low-carb-high-fat diet. Mcdougall mentions in one sentence that by supporting today's meat and dairy industry, we support institutions that change the lives of animals into hell on Earth. Life in a dark dirty box, ending with long hours of transport to the slaughterhouse in horrible conditions and death in agony by gas asphyxiation. The author seems to have a guilty conscience for supporting this industry but still believes that good results in trail running are more important than ending the hell on earth that we provide for animals.
The author no longer mentions the achievements of Scott Jurek, nor the most successful long-distance runner of our time, Killian Jornet (who, as he says, is almost completely plant-based). He devotes half a chapter to praising the diet of the Cretan Resistance fighters on whose diet the Phil Maffetone Method is based. A few chapters later, the author touts Julius Cesar's Roman army without mentioning that (according to widely available historical sources), they were predominantly vegetarian.
Still, a good book that I have benefited greatly from. The only thing I have to complain about is that the author considers the theories about the right way of running and eating, which he admires at the moment, to be the ultimate truths.
July 17, 2023
Now that I have a break from classes I can update my goodreads.
Decent book. I like nonfiction sequels. But the ending was a bit boring. And then all of a sudden . I was surprised he took some cheap shots at David Goggins. I hope David responds and calls him an MFer.
Wish I had the downloadable pdf for this book. I don't understand he keeps talking about the Raramuri, I thought they were the Tarahumara. So what I don't get is he says you want to stay in the air so you're feet don't hurt. Yet, he says to do quick steps. That's more time on your feet.
He talks about the training plan like a dozen times.
Notes:
He says music is an audio IbuProfen.
Pushing with a stroller helps make your run better because of the quick pitter patter.
The injury rate for runner's is 70%.
To reboot your running, focus on these 3 goals: flatten your footwear, quicken your cadence, find a friend.
Go to borntorun.world/runfreeplan
He said the healthiest diet is from Crete. Which means no grains, fruits sugars, low fat milk.
On any given day we have 160,000 calories on tap. 90,000 of those calories are in fat. Your body treasures fat and likes to save that for last to burn.
One in three people are pre-diabetic but 80% of those people won't find out until it's too late. COVID increases your risk for diabetes by 40%.
Most injuries come from spending too much time on the ground.
Breath dictates failure/success.
Shoes should be half an inch longer than your longest toe.
He says to take out the insoles of shoes.
Soreness and tightness are red flags for running. You shouldn't feel that after running.
Shoes to look into getting: Xero Mesa Trail, Sauceny Peregrine 4, inov8 Bare-XF 210 V3
Decent book. I like nonfiction sequels. But the ending was a bit boring. And then all of a sudden . I was surprised he took some cheap shots at David Goggins. I hope David responds and calls him an MFer.
Wish I had the downloadable pdf for this book. I don't understand he keeps talking about the Raramuri, I thought they were the Tarahumara. So what I don't get is he says you want to stay in the air so you're feet don't hurt. Yet, he says to do quick steps. That's more time on your feet.
He talks about the training plan like a dozen times.
Notes:
He says music is an audio IbuProfen.
Pushing with a stroller helps make your run better because of the quick pitter patter.
The injury rate for runner's is 70%.
To reboot your running, focus on these 3 goals: flatten your footwear, quicken your cadence, find a friend.
Go to borntorun.world/runfreeplan
He said the healthiest diet is from Crete. Which means no grains, fruits sugars, low fat milk.
On any given day we have 160,000 calories on tap. 90,000 of those calories are in fat. Your body treasures fat and likes to save that for last to burn.
One in three people are pre-diabetic but 80% of those people won't find out until it's too late. COVID increases your risk for diabetes by 40%.
Most injuries come from spending too much time on the ground.
Breath dictates failure/success.
Shoes should be half an inch longer than your longest toe.
He says to take out the insoles of shoes.
Soreness and tightness are red flags for running. You shouldn't feel that after running.
Shoes to look into getting: Xero Mesa Trail, Sauceny Peregrine 4, inov8 Bare-XF 210 V3
January 23, 2023
It's often said that we become a caricature of ourselves as we age; whatever traits we displayed as our younger self getting amplified with age. My hope had been that Christopher McDougall would have moderated his extremist views in the 10+ years since the original B2R came out. But alas, he's only siloed himself with other like minds and sharpened his already-held views over the last decade. His approach is antithetical to what the run community SHOULD be: making the tent smaller by implying that anyone who runs in shoes is an idiot.
As a proud USATF certified running coach, I'd also like to note that the data and studies McDougall puts forth are largely cherry-picked leading the reader to unreasonable conclusions and doing a disservice to runners or would be runners. While McDougall is correct that the running shoe industry hasn't cracked the code on how to prevent injuries, his jump to recommend minimalist footwear to all is not a logical next step, nor is it as healthy as McDougall suggestions. Two strong counter-arguments:
-https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23439... (TL;DR, minimalist shoes cause bone marrow inflammation, a known precursor to stress fractures)
-https://fdra.org/latest-news/vibram-b... (TL;DR, Vibrams are not only not beneficial to foot health as advertised, but detrimental to foot health)
And since B2R2 is heavy on anecdotes, I'll insert one of my own. At a recent dinner with friends, I met a women who suffered a fractured calcaneus (heel bone) after being convinced in McDougall in B2R that running barefoot was "the way". She hasn't run another step since suffering this major injury.
On a final note; while I didn't agree with the premise of the original Born to Run (run barefoot dummy!), it was hard to deny that McDougall had a story to tell and he did it in a way that reeled in many a reader including myself! This sequel Born to Run 2, wholly lacking in the magic that made the first book so magical.
I am so disappointed. Please don't waste your time or energy on this.
As a proud USATF certified running coach, I'd also like to note that the data and studies McDougall puts forth are largely cherry-picked leading the reader to unreasonable conclusions and doing a disservice to runners or would be runners. While McDougall is correct that the running shoe industry hasn't cracked the code on how to prevent injuries, his jump to recommend minimalist footwear to all is not a logical next step, nor is it as healthy as McDougall suggestions. Two strong counter-arguments:
-https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23439... (TL;DR, minimalist shoes cause bone marrow inflammation, a known precursor to stress fractures)
-https://fdra.org/latest-news/vibram-b... (TL;DR, Vibrams are not only not beneficial to foot health as advertised, but detrimental to foot health)
And since B2R2 is heavy on anecdotes, I'll insert one of my own. At a recent dinner with friends, I met a women who suffered a fractured calcaneus (heel bone) after being convinced in McDougall in B2R that running barefoot was "the way". She hasn't run another step since suffering this major injury.
On a final note; while I didn't agree with the premise of the original Born to Run (run barefoot dummy!), it was hard to deny that McDougall had a story to tell and he did it in a way that reeled in many a reader including myself! This sequel Born to Run 2, wholly lacking in the magic that made the first book so magical.
I am so disappointed. Please don't waste your time or energy on this.
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