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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
First published December 6, 2022
590 people are currently reading
2872 people want to read
About the author
Christopher McDougall
30 books1,230 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.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 156 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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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?
June 13, 2024
I don’t understand all the hate in the ratings. I enjoyed this book and found it rather inspiring. I didn’t read book 1 and I guess I will down the road because I found the topic fascinating. I’ve heard a lot about the barefoot movement but have never gotten into it, even though I can see the benefits of going back to how we are naturally made.
The book is very clear on what kind of shoes it thinks is best for runners but I didn’t seem overly preachy to me. I did come away a bit more confused because I like to look at the data of what’s really best for my feet and not just jump into this minimalist shoe movement after one book. Nor do I feel comfortable just listening to what running store employees need to sell me. I guess I have to do further research. In any case, the book is practical and touches on breathing, nutrition and community.
The book is very clear on what kind of shoes it thinks is best for runners but I didn’t seem overly preachy to me. I did come away a bit more confused because I like to look at the data of what’s really best for my feet and not just jump into this minimalist shoe movement after one book. Nor do I feel comfortable just listening to what running store employees need to sell me. I guess I have to do further research. In any case, the book is practical and touches on breathing, nutrition and community.
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!
May 10, 2025
I’ve finished the book but I haven’t finished the journey.
The book has a lot to say about how to be a well rounded, healthy runner. I’m going to start with my the foundation - form, foot strength, and cadence - and build from there.
I’m not saying I’ll go full barefoot runner at this point but I’m also not saying I won’t. Going to take a step at a time - literally!
3.5/5 stars
The book has a lot to say about how to be a well rounded, healthy runner. I’m going to start with my the foundation - form, foot strength, and cadence - and build from there.
I’m not saying I’ll go full barefoot runner at this point but I’m also not saying I won’t. Going to take a step at a time - literally!
3.5/5 stars
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.
December 13, 2024
3.5 ⭐️
I think if you liked the first one, you’ll like this one. It literally has training guide in the title, so not sure why people are giving it such bad reviews for it not being the same kind of story 🤷🏼♀️
I think if you liked the first one, you’ll like this one. It literally has training guide in the title, so not sure why people are giving it such bad reviews for it not being the same kind of story 🤷🏼♀️
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
April 16, 2025
I read Born to Run within a handful of months of starting running, back at the end of 2019. It injected some formative thinkings into my tiny brain. The core message that us people evolved to be crazy running machines over hundreds of thousands of years makes a lot of damn sense, and more so that we did it without, you know, Nikes.
It felt good to return to that world, to refresh some of the feel of the original book. But, then it gets down to the meat, which is kind of a lightly technical presentation with a heavy dose of anecdotal information. It's a 50/50 spread of good stuff and filler.
What seems to happen to me is that authors need to pad the book out and they invariably stretch too far. (They're overreaching, to use a running metaphor, and setting themselves up for injury!) Things are going along fine, lots of good stuff about running mechanics. Then the next section really tickles my spidey senses, and I start questioning everything.
In other words, there's clearly stuff in here that they know works, but it's mixed in with a whole lot of stuff they just think might be helpful. Like, the whole second part of the book opens with a long chapter on food. If there's one thing we surely do not understand, it's food. Yeah, we know some broad stroke stuff, like eating nothing but fast food for month is bad. How the DASH diet improves hypertension. Drinking sugary drinks puts you on the road to diabetes. But anyone who gives you silver-bullet diet advice is just plain wrong. I read enough to know that I could just skim that section. I think if they could have reframed it as "these are the foods the Rarámuri eat" then that's at least interesting culturally. But it's not that, it's anecdotal recipes from successful runners ("Lucy's Homemade Almond Mylk") and a "yes" list that includes dry red wine and a "no" list that includes dry white wine. No thanks.
Here's another. There's one line from the end of the food section, "Have you had Covid? Due to the virus's effect on pancreatic cells, your diabetes risk just increased by 40 percent." Sounds scary, right?! Well, this is one of those absolute vs. relative risk things. This 40% figure is from a study of 20,000+ medical records that showed the chances of receiving a diabetes diagnosis was 2.1% in that population. 0.6% of those people got the diagnosis never having had COVID while 1.5% of the people got it after having COVID. That's a 40% increase in relative risk. But you and I would probably not change our behavior if the difference were expressed as a 1.5% chance vs a 0.6% chance. It's not worth sequestering yourself forever for that. And, stupidly, the book misses the real headline from the study: getting vaccinated dropped the relative risk from 40% to *1%*.
But, look, there is tons of good stuff here. The actual running stuff is informative! I love that they included a dude who was born without the lower part of his right leg, who runs with a blade. I think they could have used some more technical photos, but it's also not really that kind of book. I wish the section at the back with the plan and handling injuries was a whole lot longer. And, I wish there was way more about the Rarámuri generally. (How do the Rarámuri handle injuries?)
All in all, I'd recommend you check it out if you're interested. You will likely take something good away from the experience! Just, feel free to skip around.
It felt good to return to that world, to refresh some of the feel of the original book. But, then it gets down to the meat, which is kind of a lightly technical presentation with a heavy dose of anecdotal information. It's a 50/50 spread of good stuff and filler.
What seems to happen to me is that authors need to pad the book out and they invariably stretch too far. (They're overreaching, to use a running metaphor, and setting themselves up for injury!) Things are going along fine, lots of good stuff about running mechanics. Then the next section really tickles my spidey senses, and I start questioning everything.
In other words, there's clearly stuff in here that they know works, but it's mixed in with a whole lot of stuff they just think might be helpful. Like, the whole second part of the book opens with a long chapter on food. If there's one thing we surely do not understand, it's food. Yeah, we know some broad stroke stuff, like eating nothing but fast food for month is bad. How the DASH diet improves hypertension. Drinking sugary drinks puts you on the road to diabetes. But anyone who gives you silver-bullet diet advice is just plain wrong. I read enough to know that I could just skim that section. I think if they could have reframed it as "these are the foods the Rarámuri eat" then that's at least interesting culturally. But it's not that, it's anecdotal recipes from successful runners ("Lucy's Homemade Almond Mylk") and a "yes" list that includes dry red wine and a "no" list that includes dry white wine. No thanks.
Here's another. There's one line from the end of the food section, "Have you had Covid? Due to the virus's effect on pancreatic cells, your diabetes risk just increased by 40 percent." Sounds scary, right?! Well, this is one of those absolute vs. relative risk things. This 40% figure is from a study of 20,000+ medical records that showed the chances of receiving a diabetes diagnosis was 2.1% in that population. 0.6% of those people got the diagnosis never having had COVID while 1.5% of the people got it after having COVID. That's a 40% increase in relative risk. But you and I would probably not change our behavior if the difference were expressed as a 1.5% chance vs a 0.6% chance. It's not worth sequestering yourself forever for that. And, stupidly, the book misses the real headline from the study: getting vaccinated dropped the relative risk from 40% to *1%*.
But, look, there is tons of good stuff here. The actual running stuff is informative! I love that they included a dude who was born without the lower part of his right leg, who runs with a blade. I think they could have used some more technical photos, but it's also not really that kind of book. I wish the section at the back with the plan and handling injuries was a whole lot longer. And, I wish there was way more about the Rarámuri generally. (How do the Rarámuri handle injuries?)
All in all, I'd recommend you check it out if you're interested. You will likely take something good away from the experience! Just, feel free to skip around.
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."
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