
As one who doesn't "believe in secrets"(Eat and Run, 155) when it comes to training, Jurek also imparts on the reader a variety of practical recipes, dietary experiences and insights garnered from his personal experiences as a champion athlete in one of the most grueling ports imaginable. For those who have never run an ultramarathon, Jurek also offers detailed descriptions as to the impact on the body during the course of such a race in a manner that clearly paints for the reader an image of the pain and glory. "my hypothalamus was pumping antitdiuretic hormones, which told my kidneys to mitigate fluid loss by concentrating my urine. ... without enough water, dehydration would thicken my blood." (97).
At the heart of the novel, and Jurek's story to this point in his life, is his relationships with his father, mother and the sport he continues to love. Two attributes further elevate its potential for enjoyment: the inclusion of accessible vegetarina recipes which the reader is invited to try and the multiple book titles and authors Jurek references as influential that are sprinkled throughout. I found myself frequently dog-earring recipe pages (which, along with basic running advice, conclude each chapter), and starring margins that include potential future reading materiel.
After finishing Eat and Run while waiting to board a flight to visit a high school friend, it was clear why my son's teammates were so enamored with Jurek memoir/handbook: he clearly and sincerely speaks to the nascent mystic-philosopher that lies in most distance runners, even those (like myself) who enjoy the practice of reading and recollecting about races more than competing in them myself. I highly recommend this book to athletes (runner and non-runner alike), as well as those searching for some meaning in their physical activities, and look forward to sharing my copy with others.
No comments:
Post a Comment