The Science of the Marathon and the Art of Variable Pace Running

Book excerpt: The Science of the Marathon and the Art of Variable Pace Running encourages you to rediscover running by gradually slowing down, running at your own pace, and learning to accelerate. This book is about Veronique Billat's 30 years of research and practical experience. This research takes place in real life and extreme racing situations; it does not take place on treadmills, rather in marathon races and the high mountains. It's about adapting new technologies to the needs of training and understanding the possibilities for the improvement of human energy. The key to long term success without injury or overtraining is to train with quality and not quantity. It is no longer necessary to train by running long distances in preparation for specific types of running races. Performance is not just about a result, but rather a road to happiness. We invite you to discover this new way of running as it is a realistic minimalist-based training using your running mind-body feelings sensations and your lifestyle. The practice of marathon running is an endeavor for anyone 10 to 100 years old, that will let you dream immense possibilities.I thought I knew everything I needed to know about marathon pacing before I read The Science of the Marathon. Whether your goal is to complete a marathon with a smile on your face or set a new personal best. Dr. Billat and Edwards fascinating and persuasive book will help you prepare with greater purpose and race with more confidence.--Matt Fitzgerald, author of 80/20 RunningThis amazing book covering 30 years of exercise science and human experience from Dr. Billat is designed for the coach, scientist, or running enthusiast who desires to understand the physiology and variability of individual banners. I have never used GPS-watch and run by feel, so it is nice to hear that is not crazy. At age 53, this book keeps me honest to do my strength training and sprints every day.Dr. Mark Cucuzzella, West Virginia University School of Medicine, author of Run For Your Life